Polygamy is the practice of having more than one wife at the same time. However, it is possible for all parties to a polygamous marriage to be legally present in the UK. For example, a second spouse may qualify for entry to the UK in a different immigration category, in their own right.

Is it illegal to marry twice in the UK?

The act of bigamy is a criminal offence in the UK under section 57 of the Offences Against Person Act 1861. If a marriage takes place in the UK and one of the parties are already legally married to another person then they are committing bigamy and the marriage will be considered void.

Can a man marry more than one wife UK?

Bigamy, as we all know, is unlawful in the UK. However, polygamous marriage is legal in several other parts of the world and the UK will recognise any marriage that lawfully took place abroad. The issue of polygamous marriage can therefore on occasion affect the operation of UK law.

Why is polygamy illegal UK?

Polygamous marriages may not be performed in the United Kingdom, and if a polygamous marriage is performed, the already-married person may be guilty of the crime of bigamy under section 11 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973.

Does UK recognize polygamy?

Polygamous marriages may not be performed in the United Kingdom, and if a polygamous marriage is performed, the already-married person may be guilty of the crime of bigamy under section 11 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973.