United Kingdom for US citizens
No visa, but US citizens need the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation, which costs £20, before travelling to the United Kingdom. Apply in the official UK ETA app or on GOV.UK. Every traveller needs one, including babies and children, and you can apply for others. It lasts 2 years or until the passport expires.
Checked against official sources 3 October 2026
Everything US citizens need
- Required£20
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation
Before you fly. Decisions usually take a day, but allow 3 working days.
Apply in the official UK ETA app or on GOV.UK. Every traveller needs one, including babies and children, and you can apply for others. It lasts 2 years or until the passport expires.
- RequiredNone
Passport
For your whole stay
Your passport needs to be valid for your whole stay in the UK.
Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for United Kingdom?
No visa, but US citizens need the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation, which costs £20, before travelling to the United Kingdom. Apply in the official UK ETA app or on GOV.UK. Every traveller needs one, including babies and children, and you can apply for others. It lasts 2 years or until the passport expires.
What forms do US citizens need for United Kingdom?
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (£20): Before you fly. Decisions usually take a day, but allow 3 working days.
How much does it cost US citizens to enter the United Kingdom?
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation: £20 per person. Everything else is free. You pay each government directly on its official site.
Do children need them too?
Every traveller needs an ETA, including babies and children.
How long does my passport need to be valid?
Your passport needs to be valid for your whole stay in the UK.
Rules can change at short notice, so confirm on the official site before you travel. WayReady is an independent company, not a government agency. How we check.