The Marriage Visitor visa lets you come to the UK to get married or form a civil partnership — and then leave. It’s often confused with the spouse and fiancé routes, but it’s very different. This 2026 guide explains who it’s for, what it costs, and the crucial limits.
What is it for?
It allows you to enter the UK for up to 6 months for the sole purpose of marrying or registering a civil partnership. It’s for couples who’ll marry in the UK then live elsewhere — or who will apply for a spouse visa from abroad afterwards.
Who can apply?
- you’re 18 or over and in a genuine relationship;
- you plan to marry or form a civil partnership within 6 months and are legally free to do so;
- you intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit;
- you can support yourself and pay for your return or onward travel.
The crucial limits
This visa does not let you work, study, settle, extend or switch to another route. You must leave after the ceremony unless you make a separate application — usually a fiancé(e) or spouse application from overseas.
Cost and how to apply
The fee is £127 (2026). Apply online, give your biometrics at a visa application centre, and submit proof of your relationship, your marriage/civil-partnership plans and venue, funds and accommodation. A decision usually takes up to 3 weeks.
Marriage Visitor vs fiancé vs spouse
Use the Marriage Visitor visa to marry then leave; the fiancé(e) visa to marry then switch to a spouse visa in the UK; and the spouse visa to live in the UK with a partner long-term. Choosing the wrong one is a common, avoidable mistake — see why visas get refused.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Marriage Visitor visa?
A 6-month visa to come to the UK to get married or form a civil partnership, after which you must leave.
Who can apply for it?
Anyone aged 18 or over in a genuine relationship who plans to marry within 6 months, is free to marry, and will leave afterwards.
Can I stay in the UK after the wedding?
No — you can’t work, study, settle, extend or switch; to live in the UK you’d apply for a spouse visa, usually from abroad.
How much does the Marriage Visitor visa cost?
£127 in 2026.
How is it different from a fiancé visa?
A fiancé visa lets you marry then switch to a spouse visa in the UK; the Marriage Visitor visa requires you to leave after marrying.
How long does it take to get?
Usually up to 3 weeks after your biometrics appointment.
