Key Points
- Use the official civil certificate.
- Provide a certified translation if it is not in English or Welsh.
- Evidence of the end of any earlier marriage is needed.
- Fix errors in names or dates before applying where possible.
What is accepted
For a UK marriage, the certificate issued by the register office. For an overseas marriage, the certificate issued by the body that legally registers marriages in that country.
Religious and customary marriages
Whether a religious or customary marriage counts depends on the law of the country where it took place. In some countries it must also be registered with the civil authorities to be valid. In the UK, a religious ceremony alone, such as an unregistered nikah, does not create a legal marriage.
Errors and name differences
A misspelt name or wrong date invites doubt. Ask the issuing authority to correct it, or explain the difference with supporting documents such as passports and birth certificates.
Previous marriages
Provide the decree absolute, final order or equivalent overseas divorce document, or the death certificate of a former spouse.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.