To visit the UK as a tourist, you may need either a Standard Visitor Visa or, for certain nationalities, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit[6].
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Requirement (as of January 8, 2025):
- Travelers from 49 non-European Union countries, including the United States, must obtain an ETA before entering or transiting through the UK.
- The ETA is valid for two years and allows stays of up to six months for tourism, business, academic purposes, or visiting friends and family.
- You need a valid passport, access to your email, and a debit/credit card for payment.
- Application is done via the UK ETA website or mobile app, and approval typically takes about three business days.
- Without an approved ETA, travelers will be denied boarding, even for transits.
- Those who already have a visa or certain other permissions do not need an ETA[1] [3] [5].
Standard Visitor Visa Requirements:
- If your nationality requires a visa, you must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before traveling. Apply online up to three months before the trip and attend a visa application center appointment[6] [7].
- You must have a valid passport with a blank page and meet eligibility requirements for permitted activities (such as tourism, business meetings, or short courses).
- The Standard Visitor Visa normally permits stays up to six months.
- Visa fees:
- Standard Visitor Visa: £127 for 6 months.
- Standard Visitor Visa for medical reasons: £220 for 11 months.
- Standard Visitor Visa for academics: £220 for 12 months.
- 2-year long-term visa: £475 (max 6 months per visit).
- 5-year: £848 (max 6 months per visit).
- 10-year: £1,059 (max 6 months per visit).
- Key documents you need may include: passport, proof of travel plans, evidence of finances, and evidence of ties to your home country. Check specific requirements for your country on the official UK government website[2] [4] [7].
General Application Steps:
- Check if you need a visa or ETA via the official UK government checker.
- Gather required documents.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the fee.
- Schedule and attend a visa application center appointment (for visa applicants).
- Wait for processing and receive your decision notification.
- On approval, travel to the UK as planned and carry documentation as recommended[2] [4].
If you plan to visit family or friends in the UK, similar procedures and duration limits apply[8].
References
- [1] New UK travel authorization requirement for US travelers in 2025
- [2] UK Standard Visitor Visa: Guide & Requirements – DavidsonMorris
- [3] Worldwide Travel Alert: New Entry requirements for US citizens …
- [4] Apply for UK Visa – Step by Step Guide to UK Visa Application
- [5] New UK Travel Requirement Effective January 8, 2025
- [6] Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Overview – GOV.UK
- [7] Apply for a Standard Visitor visa – GOV.UK
- [8] Getting a visitor visa for family and friends – Citizens Advice
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