A UK ETA for US citizens is a digital permit that allows US nationals to enter the UK. The UK electronic travel authorization (ETA) was first launched in October 2023 to step up border control by pre-screening every traveler before they arrive in the UK. This system enables the UK government to prevent individuals who could pose a threat to public safety from entering the country.
The UK ETA is not a visa and has been mostly introduced to citizens of visa-exempt countries. US citizens could previously travel visa-free to the UK but require an ETA to enter the UK since January 8, 2025. Applications opened on November 27, 2024. The electronic travel authorization is only valid for the following purposes:
Stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study.
Come to the UK for up to three months on a Creative Worker concession
Travel to the UK for up to six months for a permitted paid engagement
Transit through the UK, even if you will not go through border control.
The UK ETA is quick and easy to apply for and you can go on multiple trips during the validity period. It’s also cost-effective when compared to a UK visa.
Review this list of documents you will need to prepare ahead of your UK ETA application:
Your passport should have a minimum validity period of six months from the date you intend to travel to the UK. If you hold multiple passports, apply with the passport that you will be traveling to the UK with
You will be asked to upload a photo of yourself as part of the application. Take note of these requirements for the photo:
- It should be a color photo taken recently.
- The background should be plain, without any shadows or objects.
- Your expression should be neutral and you should be looking straight at the camera.
- Your eyes should be visible so remove your glasses if there’s a glare.
You will need a valid debit or credit card to make the online payment.
You should have a working email address as the ETA will be sent to you via email.
Here’s a step-by-step outline of the application process for an ETA for the UK for US citizens:
– You will be asked for basic personal details, such as your full name, contact details, date of birth, and passport information.
– You will also need to declare your employment status and describe your current job or business (if you’re self-employed).
– There’s a section that asks you about your criminal records and involvement in any terrorist activities or war crimes.
– Fill in all the information accurately and honestly.
– Upload a photo of yourself that meets the requirements specified previously.
– You will also need to upload a clear photo of your passport, ensuring that all the information is visible.
Make payment securely using a valid debit or credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Check your email for your ETA. You will receive the ETA decision in an email notification. If your ETA application is rejected or refused, you will informed of the reason.
The cost of a UK ETA is £79. This amount is inclusive of both the official government charges and our professional service fees for facilitating the application process. After submitting your application, you can expect to receive your ETA via email within three working days. You may get your ETA sooner, and occasionally it may take longer than three days. Apply for your UK ETA in advance to avoid any delays in your travel plans.
Review these UK entry requirements for U.S. citizens for 2025:
Even though most ETAs get approved, there are some instances when UK ETAs get refused or rejected. Knowing the difference between the two outcomes and planning your next steps is essential to enter the UK. For both rejections and refusals, it does not mean that you’ve been denied entry into the UK.
If your UK ETA has been rejected, it means that your application was not processed often due to incorrect or missing information. For example, your application may have been rejected because you entered your passport details incorrectly or because the photo of yourself was unclear. In the case of a rejection, you should rectify those issues and submit a new ETA application.
If your UK ETA has been refused, it means that your application was processed, but that you were deemed to be an unsuitable candidate for a UK ETA. This may be due to your criminal records, past deportations, or involvement in terrorism or war crimes. In this case, you should apply for a UK visa from the USA instead.
Here are several points to note after you’ve obtained your UK ETA:
There were a record 5.1 million visits from the US to the UK in 2023. During their visits, travelers spent a total of £6.3 billion, with an average spend of £1,222 per visit. The US was also the largest inbound source market for the UK for volume and for value in 2019.
The UK ETA for US citizens is valid for two years, or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner). During this validity period, US citizens can make multiple trips to the UK of up to six months at a time
Do I need an ETA to enter the UK?
Yes, all American citizens need an ETA or UK visa to enter the UK. If you’re traveling for a short-term visit and are eligible for a UK ETA, you can apply for one.
Do US citizens need a visa for the UK?
US citizens require an ETA for short-term visits to the UK for up to six months. If you plan to live, work, or do long-term study in the UK, you will need a UK visa. You will also need a visa if your UK ETA has been refused.
What is a UK visa waiver?
A UK EVW, or electronic visa waiver, was a scheme that was available for nationals of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It has since been replaced by the UK ETA.
Can I get an ETA at the airport in the UK?
No, it’s not possible to obtain an ETA upon arrival to the UK. As you will be checked for a visa before you depart for the UK, you will need to have a valid ETA before you travel to the UK from the US or any other country.
What is an ETA visa?
To clarify, an ETA is not a visa but rather an electronic authorization of travel obtained before you travel to the UK. It is valid for 2 years allowing up to 6 months of stay each visit. A visa on the other hand has different types depending on your purpose of travel and the duration of stay.
Each serves a different travel purpose and has different eligibility criteria.
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