🇬🇧 Marriage and Residency in the UK – Legal Process 2025

Marriage in the UK does not automatically grant residency, but allows a Spouse Visa under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.

🧾 Marriage Types

• Civil Marriage: at Register Office with two witnesses.
• Religious Marriage: valid if registered with Civil Registrar.
• Overseas Marriage: recognised if legally valid in the country of marriage.

💡 Requirements

• Both partners aged 18+.
• Legal immigration status in the UK.
• Notice of marriage at least 28 days before the ceremony.
• Proof that both parties are free to marry.

🧳 Spouse Visa Requirements

• Partner is British or a permanent resident.
• Genuine and subsisting relationship.
• Minimum annual income: £29,000 (from April 2025).
• English language requirement: CEFR A1 level.
• Suitable accommodation in the UK.

📄 Documents

Passport, marriage certificate, income proof, 6-month bank statement, accommodation proof, English test certificate.

⏳ Duration

• Valid for 30 months, extendable to 5 years.
• Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
• Eligible for citizenship after 6 years.

🚫 Common Refusal Reasons

• Lack of relationship evidence.
• Financial threshold not met.
• Unofficial or missing translations.
• Breach of immigration laws.

🧭 Support

• UK Visas & Immigration
• Citizens Advice
• Gov.uk – Family Visa Guidance