UK ETA for Americans
US citizens do not need a visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months, but they need an Electronic Travel Authorisation before boarding (required since 8 January 2025).
Specific to Americans
US and UK dual citizens
You cannot get an ETA as a British citizen. Enter the UK on your British passport, or on your US passport with a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode.
US and Irish dual citizens
Irish citizens do not need an ETA. Travel on your Irish passport to the UK, and on your US passport when entering the US.
Green card holders
A green card does not count. Your ETA or visa depends on the passport you hold: a Mexican or Brazilian passport holder needs an ETA; an Indian or Chinese passport holder needs a UK visa.
London on the way to Europe
Connecting at Heathrow to Paris or Rome on one ticket and staying airside? No ETA for now. A night in London or a separate low-cost ticket means passing UK border control: you need one. Europe itself will later require ETIAS from Americans.
Cruises
Calling at Southampton, Dover or Edinburgh and going ashore means entering the UK: each passenger needs an ETA.
What you need to apply
- The passport you will travel with (a national ID card is not accepted, unless you hold EU Settlement Scheme status).
- A photo of your face, taken with your phone.
- An email address and a payment card.
- Answers to a few questions about criminal convictions and immigration history.
Our service
£20 official fee per person, paid with us at cost.
- Passport read automatically
- Every answer checked by a person
- Submitted and followed until the decision
−30% from the 2nd traveller
- Passports read in one go
- Children included
Full UK ETA guide · Do you also need ETIAS for Europe?
FAQ
Do US citizens need a UK ETA?
Yes, since 8 January 2025, for every visit, children included. It costs £20 and lasts 2 years.
Do I need an ETA if I have a US green card?
It depends on your passport, not your green card.
Can Americans apply for a UK ETA in the app?
Yes, through the official UK ETA app or on gov.uk. Sésame can apply for you and check every answer.