Overseas and want to marry in the UK?

You will need to obtain a visa or entry clearance as either a fiancé/e or a marriage visitor.

You should apply for a fiancé/e visa or entry clearance if you are planning to travel to marry someone already in the UK and you plan to stay in the UK.

You should apply for a marriage visitor visa or entry clearance if you want to visit the UK only to get married, but do not plan to stay for more than six months.

These rules apply even if you are a national of a country where there is normally no need for a visa to enter the UK. You won't be able to give notice to marry to a registrar without the correct valid sticker in your passport or travel document.

If you are subject to immigration control, you must at least be 21 years old (or 18 years old if you or your wife/husband/civil partner are a serving member of HM forces) to come to the UK and marry or register your civil partnership.

Where to apply

You should apply for the correct visa or entry clearance at a British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission in your country of origin or in the country overseas where you are normally resident.

You can use our immigration service, if you need help or advice in applying for the correct visa under this category.