United States citizens travelling to the United Kingdom now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip. Since the full rollout of the UK ETA scheme, all US passport holders must obtain this digital travel permit before boarding any transport to the UK — whether for tourism, family visits, business, or transit.
This guide covers everything American travellers need to know about the UK ETA, including requirements, costs, application steps, and important tips.
Do US Citizens Need a UK ETA?
Yes. Since January 8, 2025, all US citizens must have an approved UK ETA to travel to the United Kingdom. This applies to:
- Tourism and holidays
- Visiting family and friends
- Business trips (meetings, conferences, events)
- Short-term study (up to 6 months)
- Transit through the UK (if passing through border control)
- Private medical treatment
The only exceptions for US citizens are:
- Those who already hold a valid UK visa
- Dual British-American citizens travelling on a British passport
- Dual Irish-American citizens travelling on an Irish passport
- Those with permission to live, work, or study in the UK
How Much Does the UK ETA Cost for Americans?
The UK ETA costs £20 per person. At current exchange rates, this is approximately $25–27 USD. The fee is the same for all nationalities and is non-refundable.
Payment methods accepted include:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
- Debit cards
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
Beware of unofficial websites that charge $50–$100 or more for the same service. Always apply through the official UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website.
How to Apply for a UK ETA as a US Citizen
Option 1: UK ETA App (Recommended)
The fastest way for Americans to get a UK ETA is through the official app:
Download the UK ETA app from the App Store or Google Play
Open the app and select “Apply for an ETA”
Photograph the photo page of your US passport
Scan your passport’s electronic chip
Complete a facial scan
Take a live photo of yourself
Answer suitability questions
Pay £20 by card or mobile payment
Submit your application
Most US applicants receive approval within minutes.
Option 2: Online Application
If you prefer not to use the app:
Visit the official GOV.UK ETA application page
Enter your personal details as they appear on your US passport
Upload a photo of your passport and a photo of your face
Answer the suitability questionnaire
Pay the £20 fee
Submit your application
Online applications typically take slightly longer to process than app applications.
UK ETA Processing Time for US Citizens
Most US citizens who apply through the UK ETA app receive their decision within minutes. The official guidance states to allow up to 3 working days, but approvals for American travellers are usually very fast.
Some factors that may slow processing:
- Blurry or unclear passport photos
- Inconsistent information between your photo and application
- Previous UK immigration issues
- Criminal history that requires additional review
Apply at least 3 working days before your trip to be safe, though many Americans apply the day before or even at the airport.
UK ETA Validity for US Citizens
Your UK ETA is valid for:
- 2 years from the date of approval, OR
- Until your US passport expires
Whichever comes first. During this validity period, you can make unlimited trips to the UK, with each stay lasting up to 6 months.
If you get a new US passport, you must apply for a new UK ETA, as the authorisation is linked to your specific passport.
Documents Needed for US Citizens
To apply for a UK ETA as a US citizen, you need:
- A valid US passport (must be valid for your trip duration)
- An email address
- A payment method (credit/debit card or mobile payment)
- A smartphone with a camera (for app applications)
You do not need:
- Hotel bookings or accommodation proof
- Return flight tickets
- Bank statements
- Invitation letters
- Travel insurance
What US Citizens Can Do with a UK ETA
With an approved UK ETA, US citizens can:
- Stay in the UK for up to 6 months per visit
- Travel to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man
- Attend business meetings and conferences
- Study short courses (up to 6 months)
- Visit family and friends
- Transit through UK airports
What US Citizens Cannot Do with a UK ETA
The ETA does not allow you to:
- Work or be employed in the UK
- Access public funds or benefits
- Stay in the UK long-term through repeated visits
- Get married or register a civil partnership
- Study long-term courses
For any of these activities, you need to apply for the appropriate UK visa.
UK ETA vs ESTA: Comparison for American Travellers
US citizens are familiar with the ESTA system for visitors to the United States. The UK ETA is a similar concept:
| Feature | UK ETA | US ESTA |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £20 (~$25) | $21 |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Max stay | 6 months | 90 days |
| Processing | Minutes to 3 days | Usually 72 hours |
| Multiple entries | Yes | Yes |
Tips for US Citizens Applying for a UK ETA
- Apply through the official UK ETA app or GOV.UK only
- Make sure your passport photo page is clearly readable
- Apply at least 3 working days before departure
- Check your email spam folder for the decision
- Keep your 16-digit reference number accessible
- Ensure you travel with the same passport used for the application
Common Questions from US Travellers
Do US citizens need a visa for England in 2026?
No, US citizens do not need a visa for short stays of up to 6 months. However, they do need an approved ETA before travelling.
Can I apply for a UK ETA at the airport?
While you can technically apply from anywhere with internet access, it is strongly recommended to apply at least 3 working days before travel. Do not rely on last-minute approval at the airport.
Do children with US passports need a UK ETA?
Yes, every traveller regardless of age needs their own ETA. This includes infants and children with US passports.
Can I be denied entry to the UK with an approved ETA?
Yes, the ETA authorises you to travel to the UK but does not guarantee entry. UK Border Force officers make the final decision at the port of entry.
Do dual US-UK citizens need an ETA?
No, if you hold British citizenship you should travel on your British passport and do not need an ETA.
