United States passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of the United States

eTAElectronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Citizens of the United States don't need a visa for the United Kingdom but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling.

Not yet verified

Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	eTA · Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
How to apply	Electronic travel authorization (online)
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	730 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	£16
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required

How to apply

1
Visit the official UK ETA portal
Go to the GOV.UK website to start the application.
2
Create an account or log in
Provide an email address and set a password.
3
Fill in personal information
Enter full name, date of birth, and passport details.
4
Upload passport information page
Scan or photograph the passport bio-data page.
5
Answer security questions
Disclose any past immigration or criminal issues.
6
Pay the application fee
Pay £16 using a credit or debit card.
7
Review and submit application
Double-check all details before final submission.
8
Receive ETA by email
An approved ETA is usually sent within minutes.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid U.S. passport
Must be valid for the duration of stay.
Email address
For receiving the ETA confirmation.

Financial

Payment card (credit/debit)
To pay the £16 ETA fee.

Proof of funds

Credit/Debit card statement not required

No financial proof required; fee must be paid online.

Good to know

ETA must be obtained before travel; no visa on arrival.
Passport must be valid for at least the entire stay.

Common refusal reasons

Criminal record or previous immigration violations

Answer all questions truthfully; if in doubt, consult an advisor before applying.

Incorrect passport information

Double-check passport number, expiration date, and spelling exactly as on passport.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United States need a visa for the United Kingdom?

Citizens of the United States don't need a visa for the United Kingdom but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Visa type: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

How long can citizens of the United States stay in the United Kingdom?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United Kingdom visa cost for citizens of the United States?

Government fee: £16.

What documents do citizens of the United States need for the United Kingdom?

Valid U.S. passport; Email address; Payment card (credit/debit).

Plan your trip to the United Kingdom

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for United Kingdom.

Plan the trip in Nowah All visa guides