Getting married in the UK sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Maybe you imagine saying “I do” in a cosy ancient castle or sharing your vows near the famous Big Ben. But before you get lost in wedding planning, there’s something very important you need to know — you must have the right visa to legally marry in the UK.
Choosing the wrong visa can cause serious problems, so today, we’re here to help you understand it all in the simplest way possible. Let’s dive in! Here’s what you need to know about picking between a Marriage Visitor Visa and a Fiancé(e) Visa to make your UK wedding dream come true.
What Is a Marriage Visitor Visa?
A Marriage Visitor Visa is the best choice if you want to get married in the UK but do not plan to stay there afterward. It’s like a short visit for your big day. You can come to the UK, have your beautiful wedding, and then leave once the celebration is over.
This visa lets you stay for up to 6 months, but it does not allow you to work, study, or apply for another visa while you’re there. Think of it as a “wedding trip” rather than a way to move to the UK.
If you’re just planning a destination wedding with no plans to settle in the UK afterward, this visa could be perfect for you.
What Is a Fiancé(e) Visa?
A Fiancé(e) Visa is a bit different. It’s made for couples who want to marry and then live together in the UK. If your partner is a British citizen or a permanent resident, you can apply for this visa to come to the UK, get married within 6 months, and then switch to a Spouse Visa without leaving the country.
This visa gives you the chance to build a life in the UK after your wedding, making it the perfect option for couples planning a future together there.
Key Differences Between the Two Visas
It’s easy to mix these two visas up, so let’s make it super simple:
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Marriage Visitor Visa: Only for the wedding ceremony. You must leave after the event.
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Fiancé(e) Visa: For getting married and staying in the UK afterward.
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Cost: Marriage Visitor Visa is much cheaper.
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Rules: Fiancé(e) Visa has stricter rules, like financial and language requirements.
Imagine it like this: if the UK is just your wedding destination, go for the Marriage Visa UK. If it’s your future home, choose the Fiancé(e) Visa.
Who Should Apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa?
The Marriage Visitor Visa is the best choice if:
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You want a dream wedding in the UK but plan to live elsewhere after.
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You don’t want to stay in the UK after the ceremony.
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You’re just visiting for a short time to celebrate with family and friends.
A lot of couples use this visa to have a beautiful British wedding without changing their home country. If that sounds like your plan, this visa is made for you!
Who Should Apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa?
The Fiancé(e) Visa is right for you if:
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Your future spouse is a UK citizen or has permanent residency.
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You plan to marry and live together in the UK after your wedding.
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You’re ready to apply for a Spouse Visa and eventually settle there.
If you imagine living a full life together in the UK — getting a home, maybe starting a family — then the Fiancé(e) Visa is your golden ticket.
Marriage Visitor Visa: Requirements and Documents
Before you apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa, here’s what you need to make sure:
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You and your partner are over 18 years old.
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You must show you plan to marry in the UK — like booking a venue or arranging a registry office appointment.
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You must promise to leave the UK after the ceremony.
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You must have enough money to pay for your trip and wedding without needing help from the UK government.
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You should show strong ties to your home country, like a job, family, or property.
Documents you’ll need include your passport, proof of wedding arrangements, proof of home country ties, and proof of financial stability.
Fiancé(e) Visa: Requirements and Documents
For the Fiancé(e) Visa, the list is a bit longer — but don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple:
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You and your partner must both be over 18 years old.
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Your partner must be a British citizen or permanent resident.
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You must prove your relationship is real, not just for visa purposes.
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You must plan to marry within 6 months of arriving.
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You must meet financial and English language requirements.
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You must show you have a place to live together in the UK.
Typical documents include photos together, chat history, wedding venue bookings, bank statements, employment letters, and proof of English knowledge.
Financial Requirements for the Fiancé(e) Visa
Money matters when it comes to a Fiancé(e) Visa. Your UK partner must earn at least £29,000 a year. If their salary falls short, they can show:
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Self-employment income
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Rental income
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Pension or benefits
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Savings
Example:
If your partner earns £20,000 a year, you’ll need savings of about £38,500 to meet the rule.
(We calculate it by covering the income gap over 2.5 years and adding £16,000.)
There are exceptions, too — if the UK partner receives disability benefits or similar help, the income rules may be more flexible.
Cost of Each Visa: What You Need to Budget
Here’s a big difference you should know:
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Marriage Visitor Visa: Only £115.
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Fiancé(e) Visa: £1,846 — plus extra for a future Spouse Visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
The Fiancé(e) Visa is more expensive because it lets you stay and live in the UK. But for many couples, it’s worth every penny if you plan to build your life there.
What Happens After You Get Married in the UK?
After your wedding day, your next steps depend on the visa you chose:
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With a Marriage Visitor Visa, you must leave the UK. If you want to stay, you’ll need to apply for a different visa from your home country.
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With a Fiancé(e) Visa, you can stay and apply for a Spouse Visa from inside the UK.
Getting a Spouse Visa lets you live, work, and eventually become a permanent resident. It’s a wonderful path toward making the UK your new home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Mistakes can ruin your plans, so here’s what to watch out for:
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Applying for the wrong visa based on your future plans.
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Missing key documents like proof of your relationship or financial proof.
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Using a tourist visa to get married without telling immigration (this can lead to visa refusals and even bans).
If you ever feel unsure, it’s always smart to get professional advice — small mistakes can cost you a lot of time and money.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a Marriage Visitor Visa and a Fiancé(e) Visa is all about your plans after your wedding day. Do you want a special ceremony and then return home? Or do you want to start a whole new life together in the UK?
No matter what you choose, remember that the right visa can make your journey smooth, joyful, and unforgettable.
We hope you find this inspiring!
If you want to learn even more about how to marry in the UK, check out this detailed guide on the marriage visa UK to make the best choice for your future together.
