I married a Turkish man 90 days after we met – trolls say he’s doing it for a visa
A REAL COUPLE have become the target of internet trolls after revealing they got married just 90 days after meeting on holiday.
Shane Harding, 27, from Devon married Mert, 28, a hairdresser from Turkey, two years ago after they struck up a holiday romance.
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Last year, the two declared their love for each other on the reality show 90 Day Fiance on TLC.
The series follows eight Britons who are desperate for love and therefore decide to enter into a long-distance relationship. Some of them meet for the first time in the series.
As viewers deal with the drama that comes with a long-distance relationship with a complete stranger, they see a clash of cultures, explosive family dramas and relationship problems unfold throughout the series.
But since the show, Shan and Mert are happily married and regularly document their life together on Shane’s TikTok.
And in May of this year, Mert revealed that he “finally got a visa decision” to be allowed to stay with Shane in the UK – which had been agreed.
Previously, the couple would travel back and forth to spend time together.
However, the pair became the target of internet trolls, with some claiming he married Shane to get his visa.
One of them wrote: “Visa arranged”, with a thumbs up.
To which Shane replied, “Wow, come on.”
But other people have also become big fans of the couple and regularly post positive comments on their videos.
One wrote: “I love you both.” While another said the couple were “such legends.”
Murray Boland, the production company’s creative director, previously said: “90 Day Fiancé is one of the best relationship shows on TV.
“The US series is absolutely brilliant and we’re really excited to be making it in the UK.”
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What about in the UK if you fall in love with someone from abroad?
Falling in love with someone from abroad can be a wonderful experience, but it also comes with legal and logistical considerations, especially if you want to live together in the UK.
Here’s an overview of the available steps and options:
1. Visitor visa:
If your partner wants to visit you in the UK for a short period, they may need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa, depending on their nationality. This visa usually allows stays of up to 6 months.
2. Fiancé visa:
If you are planning to get married in the UK, your partner can apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa. This visa allows him/her to stay in the UK for up to 6 months, during which time you must get married. After the marriage, he/she can apply for a Spouse Visa.
3. Spouse visa:
If you are married or in a civil partnership, your partner can apply for a Spouse or Civil Partner Visa. To qualify:
You must both be over 18 years of age.
You must be legally married or in a civil partnership recognised in the UK. You must intend to live together permanently.
You must meet certain financial conditions (for example, have a minimum income or sufficient savings).
You must have suitable accommodation.
You must meet the English language requirement.
The Spouse Visa is initially granted for 2.5 years, after which it can be extended.
4. Visa for unmarried partners:
If you have been living together for at least 2 years in a marriage-like relationship, your partner may be eligible for an Unmarried Partner Visa. The requirements are similar to those for a Spouse Visa.
5. Work or student visa:
Your partner may also be eligible to come to the UK on their own merits, for example through a Skilled Worker Visa or a Student Visa. These visas have their own specific requirements and conditions.
6. Long term relationship:
If you are not ready to get married but would like to live together in the UK, you may want to consider applying for the unmarried partners visa mentioned above. You can also continue to visit each other until you meet the requirements for another type of visa.
7. Permanent residence permit and citizenship:
After you have lived in the UK for a certain period of time (usually 5 years with a Spouse or Unmarried Partner Visa), your partner may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). After obtaining ILR, you can eventually apply for British citizenship, provided you meet further residency and other requirements.
8. Emotional and practical considerations:
Cultural differences: Be prepared for cultural adjustments and potential challenges.
Support network: A support network can help you and your partner adjust to your new living situation.
