Will our marriage abroad be recognised here?

Recognition of a marriage which took place outside the United Kingdom under foreign local law can only be determined by a Court. However, generally speaking the Registrar General advises that such a marriage would be recognised as valid here provided that it complied with the law of the country where it took place and the couple had the legal capacity to marry under their law(s) of domicile.

If a couple are concerned about the validity of their marriage they should seek legal advice. In such circumstances it may be possible to petition the Courts for a declaration of status under Section 55 of the Family Law Act 1986.

Where a marriage certificate is not in English it may be advisable to organise a literal translation for official purposes.

To marry according to the laws of another country you must ensure that you fulfill the regulations they dictate. There is usually a minimum residential requirement that you will have to build into your stay and most countires will need certain documents. If your travel agent or the Embasssy here are unable to help with what you may need then you can ring the Foreign Office, Marriages Abroad Section, for advice.

In some cases you will be asked for a certificate of no impediment. This can be obtained by making an appointment with your local Register Office to give a notice of marriage. You need to be aware that the certificate you require can only be issued after 21 clear days from your appointment