United States to United Kingdom visa requirements

Visa-free for short visits, but U.S. passport holders usually need a UK ETA (£20) before travel. U.S. ordinary passport holders do not need a visitor visa for most tourism, family, business, or short-study visits to the United Kingdom of up to 6 months, but they usually need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel unless they already have UK immigration permission or another exemption. The UK now lists the United States among nationalities that can apply for an ETA, and the Home Office says visitors without required digital permission cannot board or travel to the UK unless exempt. The ETA costs £20, is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first), and permits multiple visits. For work, settlement, most longer study, marriage/civil partnership notice, stays beyond 6 months, or if an ETA is refused, apply for the appropriate UK visa through GOV.UK before travel.