American citizens need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom.

• Government fee Set by the destination and charged when you submit the travel authorisation application.
• Processing / card charge Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top.
• Third-party sites Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• Valid PassportYour passport should be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in the UK.
• Proof of sufficient fundsEvidence that you can support yourself and any dependents during your trip, such as bank statements or payslips.
• Proof of accommodationDetails of where you will be staying during your visit, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host.
• Return or onward ticketEvidence of your intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
• Travel itineraryDetails of your planned activities in the UK.

1. 1
   Apply for your ETA online or in the UK ETA app before you travel. You will need your passport, a photo, and a payment card.

   UK Government — apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation
2. 2
   Most decisions arrive within minutes, but allow at least three working days in case yours is referred for extra checks.
3. 3
   Your ETA is linked to your passport electronically — there is nothing to print, though keeping the confirmation is sensible.
4. 4
   Travel with the same passport you applied with, and be ready to show proof of onward travel, funds and accommodation to the Border Force officer.

• Insufficient proof of funds

  How to avoid: Ensure you can demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire stay without working or relying on public funds. Provide recent bank statements, payslips, or a letter from a sponsor.

• Unclear purpose of visit

  How to avoid: Clearly state your reason for visiting and provide supporting documents such as a detailed itinerary, hotel bookings, or invitation letters. Be prepared to explain your plans to border officials.

• Intention to overstay or live in the UK

  How to avoid: Provide strong evidence of your ties to your home country (e.g., employment, property ownership, family responsibilities) and a clear return ticket to demonstrate your intention to leave the UK at the end of your visit.

• Previous immigration violations

  How to avoid: If you have previously overstayed a visa, been refused entry, or violated immigration rules in any country, this could lead to refusal. Be truthful about your immigration history.

• Providing false or misleading information

  How to avoid: Always provide accurate and truthful information in your application and to border officials. Any discrepancies or false statements can lead to immediate refusal and future travel bans.

• Always carry your passport and relevant travel documents. While not always required for identification, it's good practice.
• Be aware of different driving rules; the UK drives on the left. If renting a car, ensure you are comfortable with this.
• The UK uses Type G electrical outlets (three rectangular pins). Bring a suitable adapter for your electronic devices.
• Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.

• Can I extend my stay in the UK as a visitor?

  You may be able to apply to extend your stay as a Standard Visitor for up to 6 months, provided your total stay does not exceed 6 months in any 12-month period, or for specific reasons like private medical treatment. You must apply before your current permission to stay expires.

• Can I work in the UK with a Standard Visitor status?

  No, you cannot work in the UK as a Standard Visitor. This includes paid or unpaid work, self-employment, or undertaking a work placement or internship.

• Do I need a visa to transit through the UK?

  US citizens generally do not need a visa to transit through the UK, whether staying airside or passing through border control, as long as they depart within 24 or 48 hours respectively. However, it's always advisable to check the specific requirements based on your travel details.

• What if I have a criminal record?

  If you have a criminal record, you may be refused entry or a visa. It is advisable to declare any criminal convictions when applying for a visa or be prepared to discuss them with a Border Force officer upon arrival. In some cases, you may need to apply for a visa even if you are normally visa-exempt.

• Can I study in the UK as a Standard Visitor?

  You can undertake short courses of study, provided they are not the main reason for your visit and last no longer than 30 days. For longer courses, a specific student visa is required.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still travel to the UK?

  Yes, your US passport only needs to be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in the United Kingdom. There is no specific minimum validity period beyond your departure date. However, it is generally recommended to have at least six months of validity on your passport when traveling internationally. Ensure your passport will not expire before you plan to leave the UK.

• How much money do I need to show at the UK border?

  UK Border Force officers may ask for proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay and to pay for your return journey. There is no fixed amount required, as it depends on the length and nature of your trip. You should be able to demonstrate you can cover your accommodation, food, and other expenses without working or accessing public funds.

• If I visit Paris from the UK, can I re-enter the UK afterwards?

  Yes, as an American citizen, you can typically re-enter the UK after a short trip to another country within your six-month visitor allowance. Each entry is subject to immigration checks, and you must still meet all visitor requirements. Ensure your total time spent in the UK as a visitor does not exceed six months in any 12-month period.

• I am self-employed; what should I tell UK immigration?

  When speaking with UK Border Force, clearly state that you are visiting for tourism and intend to return to the United States. You may be asked about your occupation to understand your ties to your home country. Be prepared to explain your self-employment and how you will fund your trip without working in the UK.

• What documents do I need if I'm traveling to the UK with my child?

  When traveling with a child, you should carry their valid US passport. If you are not both of the child's parents, or if you are traveling with a child who is not your own, you may be asked for additional documentation. This could include a birth certificate, a letter of consent from the absent parent(s), or legal guardianship papers.

• How much does a United Kingdom visa cost for American citizens?

  You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government travel authorisation fee plus any card or processing charge. Government fee: Set by the destination and charged when you submit the travel authorisation application. Processing / card charge: Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top. Third-party sites: Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for London, or does this cover all of United Kingdom?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a United Kingdom visa is valid for the whole country — including London, Edinburgh, Scottish Highlands and Bath. Apply once for United Kingdom and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.