United States → United Kingdom
UK visa requirements for United States citizens (2026)
eTA / ETA required · up to 180 days. United States passport holders do not need a full visa for the United Kingdom, but must get an electronic travel authorization (ETA) online before travelling, it allows stays of up to 180 days. Visit without a visa for up to 6 months, but an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is required before travel. It costs £20 and lasts 2 years or until the passport expires.
Electronic travel authorization (ETA) required before travel, obtain it online before you travel.
MRBy Muddassar Raza, Visa and Trips / MERN SolutionsLast updated
UK ETA requirements for United States citizens
- Requirement
- eTA / ETA required
- Allowed stay
- 180 days
- Processing
- 1–3 working days
Documents needed
- Passport valid 6+ months (the ETA is linked to this passport)
- Email address and a payment card
- Travel dates and first address
- Sometimes a digital photo or a passport data-page scan
Frequently asked questions
Do United States citizens need a visa for United Kingdom?
United States passport holders do not need a full visa for the United Kingdom, but must get an electronic travel authorization (ETA) online before travelling, it allows stays of up to 180 days. Visit without a visa for up to 6 months, but an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is required before travel. It costs £20 and lasts 2 years or until the passport expires.
How long can United States passport holders stay in the United Kingdom?
Up to 180 days per visit for tourism. Overstaying can lead to fines or entry bans.
What documents do United States passport holders need for the United Kingdom?
Passport valid 6+ months (the ETA is linked to this passport); Email address and a payment card; Travel dates and first address; Sometimes a digital photo or a passport data-page scan.