---
title: United Kingdom visa for citizens of the United States
description: "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. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: £16. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-kingdom/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# United Kingdom visa for citizens of the United States

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

> 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.

## 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

- **Valid U.S. passport** (Identity): Must be valid for the duration of stay.
- **Email address** (Identity): For receiving the ETA confirmation.
- **Payment card (credit/debit)** (Financial): 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.

## FAQs

### 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).

## More

- [United Kingdom visa for every passport](/visa/united-kingdom)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)