United States · 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Visa & entry formalities for United States passport holders travelling to United Kingdom.
No visa requiredVisas / authorisation
Visa-free short stay (ETA required to travel)
Max stay
Up to 6 months
Fees
ETA £10 (approx).
Processing
Usually within 3 days, allow time before departure.
Entry conditions
US citizens may visit the UK visa-free for up to 6 months. Travel to the UK now requires an electronic travel authorisation (UK ETA) that must be arranged before departure.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- UK ETA (approved before you travel)
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of funds if requested
Step-by-step procedure
- 1 Check your passport is valid for the whole trip.
- 2 Apply for the UK ETA online.
- 3 Pay the ETA fee.
- 4 Travel and present your passport at the border (biometric).
Verify with the official source
Rules change — always confirm the latest requirements with the consulate or official portal before booking.
Common questions
Do US citizens need a visa for the UK?
No visa for short stays up to 6 months, but an approved UK ETA is now required before travel.