Yes — U.S. citizens need a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before traveling to the United Kingdom. It costs £10, is usually approved within 3 working days (often faster), and is valid for 2 years for unlimited entries of up to 6 months each. Apply on the official UK ETA app or GOV.UK before boarding.
Do Americans need the UK ETA?
Yes. Since January 2025, all U.S. citizens — including children and infants — must hold an approved UK ETA before boarding a flight to the UK. This applies to tourism, business visits, short study, and even transiting through a UK airport if you pass border control.
The ETA replaced the previous visa-free arrival system. Without it, airlines will deny boarding.
UK ETA quick facts
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Cost | £10 (~$13) |
| Processing | Within 3 working days — most approved in hours |
| Validity | 2 years or until passport expiry |
| Max stay per visit | 6 months |
| Entries | Unlimited during validity |
| Apply via | UK ETA app (iOS/Android) or GOV.UK website |
How to apply in 10 minutes
Apply at least a week before departure. A new passport means a new ETA — it cannot be transferred.
- Download the UK ETA app or use the GOV.UK online form
- Scan your passport biopage and take a photo of your face in the app
- Answer basic security and travel questions
- Pay £10 — approval arrives by email and links to your passport
Apply online — skip the paperwork
iVisa handles visa and travel authorization applications online — document review, government submission, and delivery to your inbox.
UK ETA vs ETIAS — don't confuse them
The UK is not in the EU or Schengen. A UK ETA covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland only. Mainland Europe requires the separate ETIAS. If your trip covers London + Paris, you need both authorizations. Ireland is covered by neither — U.S. citizens enter Ireland visa-free.
UK ETA for U.S. Citizens: Requirements, Cost & How to Apply — FAQ
How much does the UK ETA cost?
How long does UK ETA approval take?
Do I need a UK ETA for a layover in London?
Does the UK ETA work for Ireland?
Country entry requirements
Related guides
Entry rules change without notice. Always verify with official government sources (travel.state.gov, embassy websites) before booking. Last reviewed October 2026. This page may contain partner links — see our affiliate disclosure.