United Kingdom visa for American citizens
American citizens need an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) before travelling to United Kingdom.
ETA required Confidence: medium — Likely current — confirm details with the official source Last verified: (2 days ago)
- Status
- ETA required
- Max stay
- 180 days
- Official cost
- 20 GBP
- Before departure
- Apply online before you fly
Cost note
UK ETA fee. GOV.UK currently shows a £20 fee. An ETA lasts for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.
What you need
- valid passport
- approved UK ETA linked to that passport before travel
Official source
https://www.gov.uk/etaUse the government route and fee only. Avoid lookalike agent sites that add markups or mimic official portals.
Why this verdict
US citizens can apply for the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online. The ETA allows visits of up to 6 months at a time for tourism or business, multiple entries, valid for 2 years or until the passport expires. From 8 April 2025, US nationals are eligible for the ETA. From 25 February 2026, carriers may refuse boarding without one.
Frequently asked questions
- Do American citizens need a visa for United Kingdom?
- American citizens need an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) before travelling to United Kingdom. (ETA required.)
- How long can American passport holders stay in United Kingdom?
- Up to 180 days.
- How much does the United Kingdom entry cost for American citizens?
- The official fee is 20 GBP. This page tracks the official government fee only, not agent markup.