Key takeaways
- US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK without a visa. Every traveler needs one, including babies and children.
- The official fee is £20 per person, up from £16 on April 8, 2026.
- An ETA lasts two years, or until your passport expires if sooner, and covers multiple visits of up to six months each.
- Apply only on gov.uk or the official UK ETA app. Other websites charge extra service fees.
US citizens no longer travel to the United Kingdom on a passport alone. Before you fly, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation, or ETA: a digital permission linked to your passport, which airlines check before you board.
Who needs a UK ETA?
US passport holders visiting the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings or short courses of up to six months need an ETA. The requirement has applied to Americans since January 8, 2025. Every traveler needs their own, including babies and children.
You do not need an ETA if you already hold a UK visa or other permission to live, work or study there. Dual US and UK citizens must travel on their British passport rather than an ETA.
How much does it cost?
The government fee is £20 per person, about $25 to $27 depending on the exchange rate. It rose from £16 on April 8, 2026. The fee is the same on the website and in the app, and it is not refunded if your application is refused.
How do I apply?
- Use the official UK ETA app or the gov.uk ETA page. Be careful with lookalike sites, which add their own service fees.
- Scan or enter your passport details, take a photo of yourself, and answer a short set of questions.
- Pay the fee and wait for an email decision.
Many decisions arrive within minutes, but the UK government says to allow 3 working days, so apply well before you fly.
How long does a UK ETA last?
An ETA is valid for two years, or until the passport you applied with expires, whichever comes first. During that time you can visit the UK as many times as you like, for up to six months per visit. If you get a new passport, you need a new ETA.
Do I need an ETA if I am only connecting in London?
It depends on whether you pass through UK border control. Check the transit rules on gov.uk for your airport and itinerary before you book, especially if your connection involves separate tickets or changing airports.
Planning a trip beyond Britain? Kenya also requires Americans to get an authorization first; see our guide to the Kenya eTA for US citizens.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- US State Department: United Kingdom travel information
Frequently asked questions
Do Americans need an ETA to visit the UK?
Yes. US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorisation to visit the UK without a visa, and every traveler, including children, needs their own.
How much is a UK ETA for US citizens?
£20 per person on the official gov.uk website or UK ETA app.
How long is a UK ETA valid?
Two years, or until your passport expires if that is sooner. It covers multiple visits of up to six months each.
How long does a UK ETA take?
Many decisions arrive quickly, but the UK government advises allowing 3 working days.
General information, not legal advice. Found an error? Tell us and see our corrections policy.