Americans · UK Entry Authorisation

Americans now need
a UK ETA to visit Britain

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation is required for all US passport holders before boarding a flight to the United Kingdom. Fast, secure applications with expert review before every submission.

London red telephone box and Big Ben
✓  Expert Review
✓  Fast Processing
✓  Individuals & Families

What is the UK ETA?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a pre-travel permission introduced by the United Kingdom for visitors from eligible countries — including the United States — who previously could travel to Britain without any prior authorisation.

The UK ETA is not a visa. It is an automated electronic check linked to your US passport that must be obtained before you travel. It does not guarantee entry — UK Border Force retains the right to refuse admission on arrival — but it is a mandatory requirement to board any flight or ferry to the United Kingdom.

Once approved, your ETA is valid for multiple trips over two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

London Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
2 yrs
Validity period
6 months
Maximum stay per visit
0–72 hrs
Typical processing time

Do Americans need a UK ETA?

Yes. US citizens travelling to the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or transit are now required to hold a valid UK ETA before departure. This is a new requirement — Americans previously did not need any pre-travel authorisation to visit Britain.

An ETA is not required if you already hold a valid UK visa. Americans who have previously been refused entry to the UK, or who hold dual nationality with certain countries, should check their eligibility before applying.

Not sure if you qualify? Visit ETA Permits and click Your Journey Begins Here — you can confirm your eligibility instantly on the application page.

Good to know: The UK ETA covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. If your trip also includes the Republic of Ireland, note that Ireland is a separate country and has its own entry requirements.

How to apply

Our straightforward three-step process ensures your UK ETA application is accurate, complete, and submitted without errors.

1

Complete the form

Enter your personal details, US passport information, and travel plans on our secure online form. Takes around 10 minutes and covers the whole family in one session.

2

Expert review

Our team checks every application for accuracy before submission to the UK Home Office — minimising errors and the risk of refusal.

3

Receive your ETA

Your approved UK ETA is delivered by email and linked electronically to your US passport. No printing required — present your passport at check-in and at the UK border.

Exploring Britain
with your family?

Every traveller — including children and infants — requires their own individual UK ETA linked to their own US passport. ETA Permits makes it easy to apply for the whole family in a single session.

Our team reviews all applications together before submission, so nothing is overlooked before your trip. Fully inclusive pricing means no unexpected costs — the price you see is the price you pay.

Apply for your family
Edinburgh Castle Scotland

Frequently asked questions

When did the UK ETA requirement start for Americans?
The UK ETA was introduced in phases from 2024. American citizens are now required to hold a valid UK ETA before travelling to the United Kingdom, including for transit through UK airports.
How long can Americans stay in the UK on an ETA?
Each visit to the United Kingdom under a UK ETA is limited to six months. The ETA itself remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple trips within that period.
Do I need a UK ETA to transit through a British airport?
In most cases yes — even if you are transiting through a UK airport and not leaving the international zone, a valid UK ETA is generally required. Check the full details at ETA Permits for your specific itinerary.
Can I work or study in the UK on an ETA?
No. The UK ETA is for tourism, visiting family and friends, short business trips, and transit only. If you intend to work or study in the UK you will require a separate visa.
Do American children need their own UK ETA?
Yes. Every traveller — including infants and children — requires their own individual UK ETA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it straightforward to apply for all family members at once.
Do I need to print my UK ETA?
No. The UK ETA is linked electronically to your passport. You do not need to carry a printed copy — simply present your passport at check-in and at the UK border.

Ready to apply for your UK ETA?

Fast, simple and fully inclusive pricing. Expert review before every submission to the UK Home Office.

Begin your Journey…