What is a UK Marriage Visa?
A UK Marriage Visa allows foreign nationals to enter the UK to marry their British or settled partner. It is a temporary visa, typically valid for six months, and does not grant the right to work or settle in the UK. However, after marriage, applicants can apply for a UK Spouse Visa, leading to settlement and eventually Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Who Can Apply for a UK Marriage Visa?
To be eligible for a UK Marriage Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Your partner must be a British citizen, a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or a refugee in the UK.
- You must intend to marry within six months of arriving in the UK.
- Provide proof of a genuine and subsisting relationship.
- Have sufficient financial means to support yourself without public funds.
- Meet the English language requirements.
Documents Required for a UK Marriage Visa
When applying for a UK Marriage Visa, you need to submit the following documents:
- Valid passport.
- Proof of relationship (photos, messages, call logs, etc.).
- Notice of Marriage appointment confirmation from a UK registry office.
- Evidence of accommodation in the UK.
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements, payslips, or sponsor’s financial documents).
- English language certificate (CEFR A1 level or equivalent).
How to Apply for a UK Marriage Visa
The UK Marriage Visa application process involves several steps:
- Complete the Online Application – Fill out the UK Marriage Visa application form on the official UK Government website.
- Pay the Visa Fees – The application fee is approximately £1150 (subject to change).
- Book a Biometrics Appointment – Submit fingerprints and photographs at a UK visa application center in your country.
- Submit Supporting Documents – Upload or send the required documents online or via post.
- Attend an Interview (if required) – You may be called for an interview to verify your relationship.
- Wait for the Decision – Processing time can take 8-12 weeks.
UK Marriage Visa Processing Time
The standard processing time for a UK Marriage Visa is 8-12 weeks. However, priority services can reduce this to 2-3 weeks at an additional cost.
UK Marriage Visa Fees
The current fees for a UK Marriage Visa are:
- Application Fee – £1150
- Priority Processing (Optional) – Additional £500-£800
- Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) – Usually not applicable for a Marriage Visa
What Happens After Marriage in the UK?
Once you get married in the UK, you must apply for a Spouse Visa before your Marriage Visa expires. The Spouse Visa allows you to live, work, and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Common Reasons for UK Marriage Visa Rejection
Visa refusals can happen due to:
- Insufficient financial proof.
- Lack of relationship evidence.
- Incomplete documentation.
- Failure to meet the English language requirement.
- Incorrect visa category selection.
How to Increase Your Chances of UK Marriage Visa Approval
- Submit complete and well-organized documentation.
- Provide strong evidence of your genuine relationship.
- Ensure your financial documents meet Home Office requirements.
- Consult an immigration lawyer to avoid mistakes in your application.