Last summer there was a flight every 9.5 minutes between the US and the UK. And most Americans who boarded one of those flights did not need a visa to enter the UK. But while that’s mostly still the case, as of 2025 US passport holders can no longer just show up and enter the the United Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know for your next trip.
Can US citizens travel to the UK without a visa?
The short answer is yes, most US citizens can travel to the UK without getting a visa. That’s as long as you’re visiting for less than 6 months and are in the UK for purposes that fall into the right categories.
The good news is there’s a pretty long list of things US citizens can do in the UK without needing a visa. That includes tourism. But it also includes family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study lasting 6 months or less.
There are other categories of activity that have different rules, so I’d recommend looking through the UK government webpage for what they call “Standard Visitors” if you’re unsure if you qualify.
However, as of early 2025, all US citizens who qualify for visa-free entry do need to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance. This is similar to the ESTA that the US requires in the other direction. It’s not the same as a visa, and it’s all done relatively quickly online. More details below.
What are the UK entry requirements for US citizens?
Entering the UK for most US citizens is going to be a relatively simple process. You’ll either be traveling on a visa or the aforementioned ETA. You’ll be on a visa generally only if you’re moving there for things like long-term employment or extended study. Check the UK’s visas and immigration for the full rules and guidelines if you think that might apply to you.
Beyond that, just make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your planned stay. That’s in contrast to many countries which require that you have at least six months of validity on your passport to enter – and this is something that often catches people out.
eGates
Another plus when you arrive in the UK: US citizens who don’t need an entry stamp because they’re using a visa for the first time (so, most visitors) can use the quick and easy eGates at all major UK airports. In my experience, this has turned UK immigration from a potential nightmare with two-hour-long lines into a breeze of a process every time.
Everything to know about the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is brand new and may take seasoned travelers to the UK by surprise. Here is everything you need to know about the ETA and who needs to get one.
Who needs an ETA?
As of January 2025, every US citizen who falls into the category of not needing a visa to travel to the UK will need to get the ETA in advance.
Who doesn’t need an ETA?
If you already hold a visa to enter the UK, for example, if you’re a permanent resident or studying there on a student visa, you won’t need to get an ETA to enter.
Is it needed if I only transit through the UK?
When the ETA was first launched the UK required it for transit passengers as well, even if you had no plans to actually enter the country. This was luckily revised and as of now you do not need to get an ETA if you’re connecting through a hub like London Heathrow, and won’t cross the UK border.
How long does it take to get the ETA?
The UK government advises that you allow 3 working days to receive your ETA after applying, just in case there are any issues or delays with your application. Most authorizations come through in minutes, so if you’re despairing that you won’t be able to decide to fly to London on a whim the same day, not to worry – but I might just wait to book the ticket until you see the approval.
How long does it last?
The ETA lasts for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever happens first.
How much does it cost?
The current price (in February 2025) is £10, or about $12.50.
How do I apply?
The UK government advises that the best and easiest way to apply is through the “UK ETA app” which you’ll find on all major app stores. However, if you don’t have a smartphone you can also apply on the GOV.UK website.
Good to know: trying to apply on the website is annoying because it makes you click several times to get to the right place, always attempting to redirect you to the app. But you can bypass all that by heading to this direct link to the web application.
Do kids need an ETA?
Yes, every child in your party will need their own ETA and will pay the full fee.
What else should I keep in mind?
Much like the ESTA that the US requires for many foreign visitors, the ETA is not a visa and it doesn’t automatically grant you entry into the UK. The final decision for that will always be made at the UK border itself.
What about Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland (which is a part of the UK) is an interesting case if you’re headed there from Ireland because there are no immigration checks along that border. However just because they’re not checking doesn’t mean you don’t need an ETA. Make sure you’ve obtained your UK ETA before you enter Northern Ireland to make sure you’re following the rules and can then move on throughout the rest of the UK if you choose, without any problems.
The foregoing article was last updated on the 6th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
