Understanding how long you can stay in the UK on a marriage-related visa is an important part of planning your future together. Many people use the term “Marriage Visa,” but the UK does not have an official visa with that exact name. Instead, the system offers three main options for couples: the Marriage Visitor visa, the Fiancé visa, and the Spouse visa. Each one has its own purpose, rules, and length of stay.

How long can you stay on a Marriage Visitor Visa?

The Marriage Visitor visa is the simplest option. It is for couples who want to hold their wedding or civil partnership in the UK but do not intend to stay long-term. This visa allows a stay of up to six months. It cannot be extended, and you cannot switch to another visa while you are in the UK. When the six months end, you must leave the country. If you later decide to live in the UK together, you will need to apply for the correct visa from outside the UK.

How long can you stay on a Fiancé Visa?

The Fiancé visa is designed for partners who want to marry in the UK and then remain together afterward. You can stay for six months on this route. During this time, you must marry or enter into a civil partnership. After the wedding, you can apply to switch to a Spouse visa from within the UK. This step is essential because the Fiancé visa does not allow extensions, and you cannot work while holding it. Switching to a Spouse visa fixes both of these limitations.

How long can you stay on a Spouse Visa?

The Spouse visa is the main long-term route for couples who want to build their life in the UK. Your first grant lasts two years and six months. Before it expires, you can apply to extend your visa for another two years and six months. After completing five years in total on the Spouse route, you become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR gives you stable, long-term residency and removes most restrictions. Later, many people choose to apply for British citizenship.

Final Thought

Each visa offers a different length of stay and serves a different purpose. The Marriage Visitor visa is ideal for couples planning a short visit to celebrate their wedding. The Fiancé visa helps you marry in the UK and then move into a longer-term route. The Spouse visa provides the long-term stability needed to live, work, and settle in the UK together. Understanding these differences makes the process clearer and helps you choose the path that best supports your future as a couple.