UK Marriage Visitor Visa

The Marriage Visitor Visa is specially tailored for individuals who wish to get married or form a civil partnership in the UK, without the intention of settling there afterward. It's the perfect option for those looking to celebrate their love amidst the UK's stunning backdrops, from historic castles to picturesque gardens, making your special day truly unforgettable.

Purpose and use

Specifically tailored for individuals planning to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK within the visa’s 6-month duration. It’s also for those wishing to give notice of marriage or civil partnership in the UK. Ideal if you’re looking to celebrate your special day in the UK but don’t plan to stay or settle after the ceremony.

Key Features

• Duration: Valid for up to 6 months, providing just enough time to complete your marriage or partnership formalities.
• Application Process: Applicants need to provide proof of plans, financial stability and relationship proof.
• Return Home: Since the visa does not permit long-term stay, you should return to your home country following your ceremony or once the visa expires, whichever comes first.

Restrictions 

Unlike the Standard Visitor Visa, this one is narrowly focused on marriage and related activities. You can’t switch to another visa category from within the UK, take up long-term study or employment, or access public funds.

Salmo Pro Tips

• Gather all documents: A common hiccup in visa applications is insufficient evidence. Authorities are on the lookout for "sham marriages" or partnerships aimed at bypassing immigration laws. Make sure to include comprehensive evidence like venue bookings, communications with vendors, and proof of your genuine relationship.
• Provide intention to leave the UK: Convincing decision-makers that you plan to return home is crucial. Documents such as employment contracts, recent payslips, and return flight tickets are key. If you're marrying a British citizen and plan to stay, consider applying for a Family Visa instead.
• Provide sufficient finances: Even with bank statements and payslips, some applicants fail to convince officials they can cover their UK expenses without public funds or working. Clearly demonstrate you have sufficient funds for your wedding, travel, and stay. If someone is helping cover your costs, include documentation of this support.

Can you settle in the UK with a Marriage Visitor Visa?

No, you cannot settle in the UK with a Marriage Visitor Visa. The Marriage Visitor Visa is specifically designed for individuals who want to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK, or to give notice of marriage or civil partnership, and do not intend to stay or settle in the UK after their marriage or civil partnership.

What visa should I go for if I want to settle in the UK?

If you initially enter the UK on a Marriage Visitor Visa but then decide you want to settle in the UK with your partner, you cannot switch directly from a Marriage Visitor Visa to a settlement pathway while still in the UK. You would typically need to leave the UK and apply from your home country for a visa that allows for a longer stay and provides a path to settlement. Here are three visa types that individuals in such situations might consider if they wish to settle in the UK with their partner:

Family Visa (as a Partner or Spouse)

The Family Visa for partners or spouses is designed for those who are married to, or in a long-term relationship with, a British citizen, someone with settled status in the UK (such as Indefinite Leave to Remain), or someone with refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK. Key features include:

• Eligibility: You must prove your relationship is genuine and that you intend to live together permanently in the UK. You also need to meet financial and English language requirements.
• Duration: Initially granted for 2.5 years under the 5-year route to settlement. You can apply to extend your visa when it expires.
• Path to Settlement: After 5 years on this visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent settlement in the UK.

Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa is for individuals who have a job offer in the UK from an approved employer for a role that cannot be filled by the UK labor market. This visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. Key points include:

• Eligibility: You must have a job offer from a UK employer holding a valid Sponsor Licence, and the job offer must be at the appropriate skill level (RQF3 or above) and pay a minimum salary threshold.
• Points-Based System: Applicants must score enough points based on their job offer, salary, knowledge of English, and other criteria.
• Path to Settlement: Eligible for settlement after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.
• Duration: The visa can be issued for up to 5 years before needing an extension.

Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent Visa is designed for individuals who are leaders or potential leaders in the fields of academia or research, arts and culture, or digital technology. This visa allows you to work in the UK, change jobs without notifying the Home Office, and potentially settle in the UK. Key features include:

• Eligibility: You need to be endorsed by a recognised UK body as a leader or an emerging leader in your field.
• Flexibility: There's no requirement for a job offer, allowing you to work, be self-employed, or start your own business in the UK.
• Path to Settlement: It offers a route to settlement, usually after 3 or 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, depending on your qualification level.
• Duration: Initially granted for up to 5 years, with the option to extend.