The UK’s Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa allows individuals to enter the country with the intent of marrying or forming a civil partnership, or announcing such intentions. This visa does not result in UK settlement, and each visitor must apply individually, even if they’re part of a group.

Eligibility Criteria for Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate to UK Visas & Immigration:

1. They are aged 18 or above.
2. Their intention to announce or engage in a marriage/civil partnership in the UK within six months of entering.
3. Their relationship is genuine.
4. They genuinely wish to visit the UK for a permitted purpose.
5. They will not engage in prohibited activities.
6. They can afford their trip without needing to work or tap into public funds.
7. They’ll stay in the UK for less than 6 months and will leave afterwards.
8. They won’t frequently visit or make the UK their primary residence.
9. Their application is not subject to general grounds for refusal.

The specific criteria can vary based on individual situations. Consider seeking expert advice from an immigration lawyer.

To discuss your application, contact our team at Highwood Solicitors on +44 (0) 1206523714 or use our inquiry form.

Pre-Travel Clearance for Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa

Applicants wishing to marry or declare a civil partnership in the UK should secure a Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa prior to travelling. This applies to both visa and non-visa nationals.

Exceptions are for British citizens, Irish citizens, those with settled/pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), and those awaiting decisions on EUSS applications made before 1 July 2021. Some non-visa nationals, whose marriage isn’t recognised by UK law, also don’t need this visa.

Highwood Solicitors can assist both visa and non-visa nationals in ensuring entry requirements are met upon arrival in the UK.

Activities Allowed Under the Visa

Holders of the Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa can:

• Marry or enter a civil partnership.
• Give notice of intention for the same.

Other visitor route activities are also allowed, but studying is prohibited.

Validity & Terms of the Visa

Visa holders can stay up to 6 months in the UK. While multiple entries are allowed, the total visit length must not exceed 6 months.

Employment Rights Under the Visa

Visa holders can’t work in the UK, with limited exceptions. This includes establishing a business or selling goods/services. Some remote work activities related to overseas employment, like email response, are permissible. However, working remotely shouldn’t be the primary reason for visiting.

Visa Application Costs

The current application fee for a short-stay Marriage & Civil Partnership Visit Visa is £100.

Notifying the Intention to Marry or Form a Civil Partnership

Visitors wishing to marry or form a civil partnership must provide notice at a local register office. A 28-day notice period is mandatory before the ceremony.

Selecting Between Marriage/Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa & Fiance/Proposed Civil Partner Visa

Choose the Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa if you don’t plan on staying in the UK post-wedding. If you intend to settle, opt for the Fiance or Proposed Civil Partner Visa.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist

Our experienced solicitors at Highwood Solicitors offer expert guidance on all matters related to the Marriage & Civil Partnership Short-Stay Visit Visa. Whether you need advice, application assistance, or representation for application refusals, we’re here to help.

We’re dedicated to offering dependable immigration advice in a professional, friendly manner.