United States ETA guidance
US citizens and the UK ETA
US passport holders planning a UK trip can use this guide to check the ETA rules before they book, pack or head to the airport.
The United States is currently on the UK ETA eligible nationality list, but the ETA still belongs to the passport used in the application.
- A government application fee applies
- Apply at least 3 working days before travel
- Each traveller needs their own ETA
Eligibility
What this means for US citizens
This nationality is currently on the UK ETA eligible list for short visits, but the ETA still depends on the passport you use and the purpose of travel.
Traveller guidance
What to check before you apply
If you are travelling for business meetings, family visits or a holiday, decide early which passport you will show when you travel.
Passport-specific guidance
Checks that matter when travelling on a US passport
- The ETA route is based on the passport presented for travel. A US passport is on the current ETA national list, but a dual British or Irish citizen should follow the separate GOV.UK passport guidance rather than apply for an ETA.
- A short business visit can include specified visitor activities, but an ETA does not turn work or a long-term stay into a permitted visit. Use the official UK visa checker when the purpose goes beyond a visitor activity.
- For a UK connection, check whether you will pass border control. The current ETA transit position differs between landside and qualifying airside connections.
Passport
Use the passport you will travel with
Use the original passport you will travel with. The ETA is linked to that passport, so a renewed or replaced passport usually means a new application.
Photo requirements
Prepare a facial photograph that follows GOV.UK rules
Use a clear colour facial photo that is in focus, well lit, taken against a plain light background and not altered with filters or editing.
Fee and timing
Government fee and decision timing
A government application fee applies.
GOV.UK says a decision is usually sent within a day, but travellers should allow up to 3 working days and some cases can take longer. No service can promise a faster government decision.
Validity
How long an ETA normally lasts
A UK ETA normally lasts for 2 years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first.
Children and family
Families should plan for separate ETAs
Each traveller needs their own ETA, including children and babies.
Independent information
Official sources, clearly identified
ETAApply is an independent travel-information website and is not affiliated with any government.
Source verification
Checked against official UK sources
Last verified: 27 October 2026
- Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK — GOV.UK
- Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) — GOV.UK
- Immigration Rules Appendix Electronic Travel Authorisation — GOV.UK
- Electronic Travel Authorisation factsheet — April 2026 — UK Home Office
- Immigration Rules Appendix ETA National List — GOV.UK
Practical preparation
Use a short checklist before you start
Before you start, check your passport expiry date, confirm the passport you will actually travel with and keep your facial photo ready.
Frequently asked questions
Questions from US citizens
What should a dual US and British or Irish citizen do?
Does a US passenger need an ETA for a UK connection?
Can a US business traveller use an ETA for work?
Does my child need a separate ETA?
How long should I allow before travelling?
Is ETAApply the UK Government?
Other UK ETA guides