What actually happens during a referred notice investigation?
During a referred notice investigation the Home Office reviews the information from your notice appointment and decides whether to look further into whether the marriage is genuine and whether it is being used to avoid immigration control. Most referred couples hear nothing further and can marry once the up-to-70-day period ends or an earlier clearance is given.
Who looks at the case, and when
Once a registration officer refers a notice, the paperwork and details you gave at the appointment are passed to the Home Office. The investigation runs from the date notice was given, not from some later start date, so the clock is already ticking by the time you leave the register office.
In many cases the file is simply reviewed on paper against existing immigration records. There is no guarantee you will be contacted, and silence during the 70 days does not mean anything has gone wrong.
When you might hear something
If something in your case needs clarifying, an immigration officer may contact one or both of you, or visit an address, to ask questions. This is more likely where immigration history is complex or where documents raised queries at the notice appointment.
Being contacted does not automatically mean your marriage will be blocked; it means the Home Office wants more information before the 70 days are up.
What ends the investigation
The investigation ends either when the Home Office confirms it has no objection, allowing you to marry earlier, or when the full 70 days pass without any objection being raised, at which point you can proceed regardless.
What this means for you
- Do not chase the Home Office for a decision — most cases simply run the full 70 days with no update.
- Keep contact details current with the register office in case you need to be reached during the investigation.
- This page explains the process, not immigration outcomes — a regulated adviser is the right person for status questions.
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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