In 2024, approximately 3.9 million US citizens visited the UK, a significant increase from previous years. As part of a growing trend, American passport holders make up a substantial portion of inbound visits.
With the introduction of the UK ETA in 2025, US travellers need to be prepared for this new requirement. In this post, you’ll learn more about:
- What is ETA
- How to apply for ETA
- ETA requirements for US citizens
- FAQ
What is the UK ETA?
In response to ever-changing global trends and the drive to digitalise borders, the United Kingdom authorities have recently introduced a new system — the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
The ETA system is intended to replace the existing electronic visa declarations (EVW - Electronic Visa Waiver). The main difference is that ETA is mandatory for all visitors, including US citizens.
Before the UK ETA, US citizens could visit the UK for up to 6 months without any pre-approved travel authorisation.
The ETA is expected to guarantee a smoother entry process while pre-screening travellers before they even arrive at the UK border.
Do US Citizens need a UK ETA?
Yes, starting from 2025, it became mandatory for all US citizens planning to visit the UK for short stays. This means that you must apply for ETA if you are travelling to the UK for the following purposes:
- Tourism
- Visiting family and friends
- Business trip
- Short-term study (less than 6 months)
- Working under a Creative Worker visa concession (less than 3 months)
- Transit through a UK airport
What are UK ETA requirements for US citizens
To apply for the UK ETA, you must meet the following requirements:
- Valid US passport
- Visit duration less than 6 months
- No serious criminal conviction
- Eligible travel purpose
UK ETA validity and duration of stay
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Number of times you can use an ETA
Multiple visits to the UK within validity period
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UK ETA Validity
2 years from the date of issue
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Max length of stay
6 months
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Activities allowed with the UK ETA
- Tourism
- Business
- Short-term study
- Medical treatment
- Transit
How to apply for a UK ETA in 3 steps
With UK Visa Kingdom, the application process for the UK ETA is simple and can be completed in just three steps:
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1- Complete the online application form
Fill out the online application form and attach the required documents. You’ll need to upload a clear copy of your US passport and a recent passport-sized photograph. Our expert team will review your documents to make sure they meet the official requirements.
Apply for your ETA now -
2- Pay the application fee to receive your ETA
The fee covers both the UK government and our service charges. Payment can be made using Visa, Mastercard and Maestro. Once submitted, you'll receive your ETA via email within 2 days, or within 1 hour with our Priority Service.
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3- Receive your ETA via email
Once approved, your ETA will be sent to you via email. You can download it for a digital copy or print it to present at the border when entering the UK
Extra Services
While you're applying, you’ll have the option to choose some of the additional services we offer:
Priority processing
Our Priority Process service allows you to get your ETA in less than 1 hour, perfect for last-minute plans. Add expedited processing and make sure you’re ready for your trip.
Fee protection
With Free Protection service, you can be ready for any unexpected situations. Your ETA application will be covered for 120 days in case of unforeseen circumstances of trip cancellation.
Embassy registration
For US passport holders, we offer an Embassy Registration service, aimed at protecting you against any emergencies during your trip.
UK ETA processing time for US citizens
Our processing time for the UK ETA is guaranteed. You’ll receive your ETA within 48 hours of submitting your application. However, it’s recommended that you apply for your ETA well in advance of your travel to allow ample time for processing.
Travelling with a UK ETA from the US
Once your UK ETA is approved, it will be sent to you via email. Your ETA will be linked to your passport. Make sure that you travel with the same passport that was used to apply for your ETA. If your passport is replaced or expires, you will need to reapply for the ETA using the new passport. \
Upon arrival in the UK, you will go through standard border control checks. Immigration officers will verify your passport details and UK ETA approval. It’s advisable to have a printed or digital copy of your ETA confirmation for quick reference. \
You can easily find direct flights from the US to the UK from these cities:
- New York (JFK & EWR)
- Boston (BOS)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Miami (MIA)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Dallas (DFW)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
- Seattle (SEA)
You can fly directly from the US to the following UK airports:
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- London Gatwick (LGW)
- Edinburgh (EDI)
Why choose UK Visa Kingdom for your UK ETA?
When applying for your UK ETA, it’s essential to choose a reliable and professional service provider. Here’s why you should consider applying for your UK ETA with UK Visa Kingdom:
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Expert guidance and support
Our expert team will review your application to make sure there are no mistakes and all your documents meet the requirements. In addition, we’ll stay in touch with you 24/7 in case you have any questions.
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Fast and efficient processing
Our application process is designed to be quick and user-friendly, so you can apply for your ETA in just a few minutes. It will take less than 2 days to process your application, or within 1 hour with our Priority Processing Service.
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Secure payment options
Your safety is our top priority. All the payments are processed through the SSL encrypted software to guarantee your data protection.
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No hidden fees
Our application process is transparent, and you can easily see all our fees, including extra fees for the optional services that you would like to add.
FAQs about the UK ETA for US citizens
What is the cost of the UK ETA for US citizens? Toggle faqs
The cost of obtaining your UK ETA through the UK Visa Kingdom is US$109, which covers both the UK government’s official application fees and their professional service charges.
This price includes expert support throughout the process, ensuring your application is accurate and submitted on time.
Can I apply for a UK ETA if I have dual citizenship? Toggle faqs
Yes, if you hold dual citizenship, you can apply for a UK ETA using your US passport. Make sure to apply with the passport you will use for travel.
Can I extend my stay in the UK with the ETA? Toggle faqs
No, the UK ETA is valid for short stays of up to 6 months. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a visa.
Can US citizens work in the UK with an ETA? Toggle faqs
No, the UK ETA is not a work visa. If you plan to work in the UK, you must apply for the appropriate work visa.