Everything You Need to Know About the Marriage Visa UK in 2025

If you're planning to tie the knot and live in the UK, understanding the marriage visa process is key. Here's a complete guide to the UK marriage visa in 2025.

If you're planning to tie the knot and live in the UK, understanding the marriage visa process is key. Whether you're a non-UK national planning to marry a British citizen, or a couple planning to settle in the UK after marrying abroad, the visa requirements can seem complex. This guide covers everything you need to know for 2025.

What is a UK Marriage Visa?

A UK Marriage Visa (officially the 'Fiancé(e) Visa' or 'Proposed Civil Partner Visa') allows a non-UK national to enter the UK to marry their British partner or a person settled in the UK. After the marriage takes place, the visa holder can then apply for a Spouse Visa to remain in the UK long-term.

Who Needs a Marriage Visa?

You need a UK Marriage Visa (Fiancé Visa) if you are a non-EEA/non-Swiss national who wants to come to the UK to marry a British citizen or someone with settled status, and you intend to settle in the UK after the marriage. EU citizens who entered the UK before 31 December 2020 and hold Settled Status are not required to apply for this visa.

Key Requirements for 2025

• ▸You and your partner must both be aged 18 or over
• ▸You must be free to marry (not currently married or in a civil partnership)
• ▸You must intend to marry within 6 months of arriving in the UK
• ▸Your UK partner must meet the minimum income requirement (currently £29,000 per year from 2024)
• ▸You must meet the English language requirement
• ▸You must have accommodation available
• ▸You must not fall under any of the standard refusal grounds

Income Requirements in 2025

The minimum income threshold increased significantly in 2024. As of April 2024, the UK sponsor must earn at least £29,000 per year (up from the previous £18,600). This threshold is set to rise further to £38,700 in a future stage. Check the latest Home Office guidance for the most current figures.

How to Apply

Applications for the UK Fiancé Visa are made online through the UK Visas and Immigration portal. You will need to pay a visa application fee, book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre in your country, and provide supporting documentation including proof of your relationship, financial evidence, and accommodation details.

Timeline

Standard processing time for a UK Fiancé Visa is approximately 8 weeks from the date of the biometric appointment. Priority and super-priority services are available at additional cost for faster decisions (5 days and 24 hours respectively, where available). Allow plenty of time before your planned wedding date.