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The Home Office has raised the age at which a UK marriage visa can be applied for in an effort to prevent forced marriages.
Government figures show 30 per cent of the cases dealt with by a specialised forced marriage unit involve victims aged between 18 and 21.
Officials said the age limit increase, alongside other new measures, would "significantly strengthen" the safeguards against forced marriage.
The other new rules include asking foreign spouses to enter into an agreement to learn English before they come to the UK and using a code of practice so specialists can identify vulnerable people at risk of forced marriage.
Home secretary Jacqui Smith said: "Forced marriage leads to victims suffering years of physical and mental abuse and, in extreme cases, unlawful imprisonment and rape. It has no place in our society."
The Home Office added practical guidance is also being introduced so UK Border Agency staff can spot any risk of abuse or those who are vulnerable to forced marriage and prevent them from being coerced.
Other key plans include a power to revoke leave to remain where there is evidence that the marriage route has been abused and a requirement that all sponsors register their intention to marry overseas before they leave the UK.
