How do you get married in the UK as a foreigner?

If you are a foreign national, the process is broadly the same as for UK citizens, but there are extra checks. In England and Wales, both partners must give notice in person at their local register office, usually where they have lived for at least the last seven days. The notice period is at least 28 full days, but it can be longer if either of you is subject to immigration control, because the Home Office may need to investigate. Your notice is valid for 12 months, so the ceremony must happen within that time.

You will need to bring proof of identity, address, and your immigration status, such as a passport, visa, or biometric residence permit. The register office will tell you exactly what documents they need, so check with them before your appointment. In Scotland, you submit a marriage notice to the registrar for the district where the wedding will take place, at least 29 days before, and in Northern Ireland it is at least 28 days before. If you are marrying abroad and then returning to the UK, marriages that are legal in that country are usually recognised here, but check the local rules and the GOV.UK page for that country. For any detail not covered here, ask the register office or check GOV.UK, as rules can change.