Legal Weddings FAQ

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions on legal and religious marriage and divorce. These are designed to help individuals understand the law and their rights, enabling them to make informed decisions
Legal Weddings Legal Civil Wedding Legal Religious Wedding Non-Legally Binding Weddings
19. Is a marriage conducted abroad legally valid in the UK?
A marriage conducted abroad will be legally recognised and valid in the UK if it has been conducted in accordance with the laws and procedures of that country. You can get more specific and up to date information on the government’s website. www.gov.uk/marriages-civil-partnerships-abroad If you had a Nikah ceremony abroad in a Muslim law country where it was a legally valid marriage and it was registered with the relevant authorities, your marriage will be recognised in the UK and you will not have to have an additional legal marriage ceremony in the UK.
20. Can I legally marry someone who lives abroad in England and Wales?
Yes, but they must have a visa to come to the UK to give notice and get married. There are criteria they must meet and they must not be planning to stay or settle in the UK after the marriage takes place. Eligibility requirements can be checked on the government website: www.gov.uk/marriages-civil-partnerships www.gov.uk/marriage-visa?step-by-step-nav=8424e3fa-df5e-43e6-9158-59a8a18e1c8e
21. Can I bring a person I want to marry, or have married, to the UK?
It is possible to marry someone abroad or get engaged and then apply for them to come to live with you in the UK. You will need to apply for the right kind of visa and meet the eligibility requirements. These can be found on the government website: www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa Please note that the criteria and rules could change, so you should check what rules apply when relevant to your situation.
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