Visas & entry
USA: ESTA or visa?
Most UK holidaymakers need an ESTA, an online authorisation, rather than a visa. ESTAs now need a selfie photo. You can't use one if you've ever been arrested, or have visited certain countries such as Iran or Cuba in recent years.
- No visa needed
- Apply online before you go
- Visa on arrival
- Visa in advance
The ESTA is quick for most people, but the eligibility questions matter. Answer one wrongly and you can be refused at the border or banned. If you don't qualify, you need a full B-2 visitor visa with an interview at the US Embassy in London, and appointments are limited.
Which route applies to you
- ESTA (most visitors)Apply online before you go
Applied for online on the official US government site. Typically valid for 2 years and stays of up to 90 days per visit.
- Visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011Visa in advance
Not eligible for an ESTA. You'll need a visa.
- Visited Cuba since 12 January 2021Visa in advance
Not eligible for an ESTA. You'll need a visa.
- Any arrest or criminal recordVisa in advance
Even without a conviction. You'll usually need a visa.
At the border
Officers can ask to inspect your phone, emails and social media, and the FCDO warns that refusing can delay or deny entry. Your passport only needs to be valid for the length of your stay, but check your ESTA account before you travel to confirm it's still valid.
Before you go
- Apply on the official US government ESTA site. Lookalike sites charge extra.
- Recently been to DR Congo, Uganda or South Sudan? Temporary entry restrictions apply.
- Emergency number: 911.
Official advice: FCDO entry requirements for United States
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