If you’re planning to visit the UK to get married or enter into a civil partnership, you will need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa.
The Marriage Visitor Visa is tailored for individuals who plan to enter the UK to get married or form a civil partnership, or to give notice of a marriage or civil partnership. Our immigration team at Privity Legal helps couples prepare clear, well-evidenced applications so the paperwork doesn’t get in the way of the big day.
This visa is similar to the Standard Visitor Visa route and allows for a temporary stay of up to 6 months, without leading to UK settlement. Each visitor, even as part of a group, needs to apply individually.
The Marriage Visitor visa lets you come to the UK for up to six months to give notice of, and then hold, your marriage or civil partnership. It’s designed for couples who plan to marry in the UK and then leave. It is not a route to living in the UK with your partner.
This visa is often misunderstood. Many people assume that if they can visit the UK visa-free, or with an ETA, they can also marry here. In most cases they cannot. Getting married or giving notice on a standard visit is not permitted, so you’ll need this visa unless you fall into one of the exemptions below.
You won’t need this visa if you:
If you qualify for British citizenship, including dual nationality, you cannot use this route and should apply for citizenship instead.
With a Marriage Visitor visa you can:
You cannot:
To qualify, you must show that you:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor visa (up to 6 months) | £135 |
| Priority service (optional, where available) | +£500 |
| Super priority service (optional, where available) | +£1,000 |
There is no long-term version of this visa. Fees are charged per applicant and are not usually refunded if the application is refused.
Decisions are usually made within three weeks of your biometrics appointment. You can apply up to three months before you travel. Because you’ll often need time in the UK to give notice before the ceremony can take place, plan your travel and wedding dates carefully, and speak to your chosen register office early.
A strong application usually includes:
Refusals often happen because of:
Most visit visa refusals carry no right of appeal, so preparing it properly first time is the best way to protect your wedding date.
If you and your partner intend to settle in the UK together, the Marriage Visitor visa is not the right route. You may need a Fiancé(e) visa or a Spouse visa instead. Choosing the wrong route can lead to refusal and future immigration problems, so get advice before you apply.
Our specialists can:
Planning your UK wedding? Book a consultation with Privity Legal today.
Do I need a Marriage Visitor visa if I can visit the UK without a visa?
Usually, yes. Visa-free visitors and ETA holders cannot marry or give notice of marriage on a standard visit. Irish citizens and people with EUSS status are exempt.
How much does a Marriage Visitor visa cost?
£135 per applicant in 2026, plus optional priority fees.
How long can I stay?
Up to six months. You must marry or register your civil partnership within that time.
Can I stay in the UK after getting married?
No. You cannot extend this visa or switch to another visa from inside the UK. If you want to live together in the UK, you’ll normally need a Spouse visa applied for from outside the UK.
Can my family come with me?
Yes, but they cannot come as your dependants. Each guest must apply for their own visa or ETA if they need one.
Can I give notice of marriage on this visa?
Yes. Giving notice is one of the permitted activities.
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