What is a referred notice of marriage?
A referred notice is a notice of marriage that a registration officer passes to the Home Office for further checks because one or both of you is subject to immigration control. Instead of the standard 28-day wait, you must wait up to 70 days before you can marry, unless the Home Office completes its check sooner.
When notices get referred
Not every notice involving a non-UK or non-Irish citizen is referred, but many are, particularly where immigration status is not straightforward. The decision sits with the registration officer at your notice appointment.
The 70-day period
Once referred, the case goes to the Home Office, which has up to 70 days from the date notice was given to investigate before the marriage can proceed. If no objection is raised, you can marry once the 70 days pass, or earlier if the Home Office confirms it has no objection.
Planning around it
Because you cannot control whether a notice is referred or how long a review takes within the 70 days, avoid booking a ceremony venue for a date very close to the earliest possible day. Build in a margin.
What this means for you
- Do not book a venue for the 29th day after notice if referral is a realistic possibility — assume up to 70.
- A referral is procedural, not a rejection; it does not mean your marriage will be refused.
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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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.