I married a Turkish barber 90 days after we met on holiday – trolls say he’s with me for a visa but it’s true love
A COUPLE have been targeted by trolls after they revealed how they got married just 90 days after meeting on holiday.
Shane Harding, 27, from Devon married Mert, 28, a barber, from Turkey after embarking on a holiday romance two years ago.
The pair expressed their love and got married on the TLC reality show 90 Day Fiance last year.
The show followed eight Brits who are desperately pursuing love and so have decided to engage in a long distance relationship – and some of them are met for the first time on the show.
Dealing with the drama that comes along with a long distance relationship with a complete stranger, viewers see a clash of cultures, explosive family dramas and dating problems that arise throughout the series.
But since the show, Shan and Mert have been happily married and the pair regularly document their life together on Shane’s TikTok.
And in May this year, Mert revealed that he “finally got his visa decision” for him to stay in the UK with Shane – which was agreed.
Before this, the couple had been travelling back and forth to spend time with each other.
However, the pair were targeted by trolls with some claiming that he married Shane to secure his visa.
One wrote: “Visa secured,” along with a thumbs up.
To which Shane replied: “Wow, get a grip.”
But other people have become big fans of the couple and regularly comment positivity on their videos.
One wrote: “Love you both.” Whilst another said the pair were “such legends.”
Previously speaking Murray Boland, Creative Director of the production company said: “90 Day Fiancé is one of the best relationship shows on TV.
“The American series is absolutely brilliant and we are so excited to be making it in the UK.”
How does it work in the UK if you fall in love with someone from abroad?
Falling in love with someone from abroad can be a beautiful experience, but it also comes with some legal and logistical considerations, especially if you want to live together in the UK.
Here’s an overview of the steps and options available:
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 typically allows stays of up to 6 months.
2. Fiancé(e) Visa:
If you plan to get married in the UK, your partner can apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa. This visa allows them to stay in the UK for up to 6 months, during which time you must get married. After the marriage, they 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 be eligible:
You must both be over 18.
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 requirements (e.g., earning a minimum income or having 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. Unmarried Partner Visa:
If you have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years, 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, such as 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 want to live together in the UK, you might consider the Unmarried Partner Visa, as mentioned, or continue to visit each other until you meet the requirements for another type of visa.
7. Permanent Residence and Citizenship:
After living in the UK for a certain period (typically 5 years on a Spouse or Unmarried Partner Visa), your partner may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). After obtaining ILR, they can eventually apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting further residency and other requirements.
8. Emotional and Practical Considerations:
Cultural Differences: Be prepared for cultural adjustments and potential challenges.
Support Network: Having a support network in place can help both you and your partner adjust to the new living situation.