Marrying an EU citizen in England or Wales
EU citizens follow the same marriage law as anyone else in England and Wales — there is no separate 'EU marriage' process. Whether the referral and investigation scheme applies depends on the EU citizen's individual immigration status, such as whether they hold settled or pre-settled status.
No automatic exemption
Since the end of free movement, EU citizenship alone does not exempt someone from the immigration checks that apply to notice of marriage. What matters is the individual's current UK immigration status.
Settled and pre-settled status
An EU citizen with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme is generally treated in the same way as a British or Irish citizen for notice purposes. Without one of those statuses, the standard immigration control rules for notice may apply.
Documents to bring
Bring your passport or national identity card as appropriate, and evidence of your immigration status, such as your EU Settlement Scheme status letter, alongside the usual identity and address documents.
What this means for you
- Check your specific immigration status before assuming EU citizenship simplifies your notice appointment.
- Bring status evidence, not just a passport, if you hold settled or pre-settled status.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Marriage and civil partnership referral and investigation scheme
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Related guides
Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.