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U.S. Travelers Will Soon Have to Pay to Enter the U.K.

By Sarah James

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U.S. visitors—as well as visitors from Europe , Australia and Canada —will soon be required to apply for permission to enter the U.K. through a new scheme known as Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The U.K. government is in the process of fully digitizing U.K. borders by the end of 2025—and the ETA scheme will play its part, allowing “individuals, and carriers, with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the U.K.,” the government said.

The scheme will be in place by the end of this year (2023), and visitors will be required to fill out an online application granting them permission to travel. There will be a small fee included in the application—similar to how the U.S.'s own ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) system works for U.K. travelers.

Here's everything we know.

Will I need a visa to enter the U.K.?

This isn't technically a visa—the ETA system will grant travelers permission to enter the country. You will need to apply for an ETA prior to arrival. If you haven't received permission to travel before arrival, you may get fined.

West London UK

Travelers from the U.S. will soon need to apply for permission to enter the U.K.

How long will it take to get an ETA?

Travelers will be advised to apply for an ETA at least a few days before their journey. Approval should be granted within 72 hours of application.

How long will an ETA last?

After your ETA has been approved, visitors will be granted permission to stay in the U.K. for six months, whether for business or tourism reasons.

The U.K. government is yet to confirm how often visitors will need to apply for a new ETA, but it's likely to be valid for two years—meaning there's no need to apply for a new one every time you visit within the valid time period.

Peak District National Park Derbyshire UK

Visitors with valid ETAs can stay—and travel—in U.K. for up to six months.

How much will an ETA cost?

We don't know yet—but the government has said that the cost will be small. The EU implemented a similar system in 2022, which costs €7. A U.S. ESTA, meanwhile, costs $21.

Who will need to apply for an ETA?

The full list of nations included hasn't been announced yet. We do know that U.S. citizens who don't hold a visa will need to apply for an ETA, as will other visa-exempt nations such as Canada and Australia. European countries are likely to be included, too.  Those traveling from nationalities without a visa-free agreement with the UK will still need to apply for another applicable type of UK visa.

What will I need to apply for an ETA?

You'll need a valid passport , an email address to register with, and to supply the details of your travel, as well as a valid debit or credit card to pay any fees to apply.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the ETA scheme, check the official website for more details as they become available.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.  

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

Updated: September 9, 2023

United Kingdom UK Tourist Visa Image

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. UK tourist visa application is online but the rest of the process requires an in-person appointment for biometrics.

The UK or the United Kingdom is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK.

The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

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UK TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

United Kingdom Tourist Visa Requirements by Nationality

Minimum passport validity required to enter the UK

  • Passport must be valid for the entire stay in the UK

Visa EXEMPT nationalities

Unlimited entry.

  • This requirement will change from 01 Jan 2021 when UK will no longer be part of the EU
  • Czech Republic
  • Liechtenstein
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland

6-month entry

  • You must carry all documents needed for a visitor visa to show at the port of entry if asked
  • Visa is REQUIRED if you have a criminal record or refused entry into the UK before
  • Anguilla (British territory)
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bermuda (British territory)
  • Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba (Dutch territory)
  • British Virgin Islands (British territory)
  • Cayman Islands (British territory)
  • Costa Rica
  • El Salvador
  • Falkland Islands (British territory)
  • Hong Kong
  • Marshall Islands
  • Montserrat (British territory)
  • New Zealand
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Pitcairn Island (British territory)
  • San Marino
  • Solomon Islands
  • South Korea
  • St Kitts and Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Maarten
  • St Vincent and The Grenadines
  • Timor Leste
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Turks and Caicos Islands (British territory)
  • United States of America
  • Vatican City

Visa REQUIRED nationalities

  • Afghanistan
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Burkina Faso
  • Cape Verde
  • Central African Republic
  • Congo, Dem. Rep. of
  • Congo, Rep. of
  • Cote d’Ivoire
  • Dominican Republic
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • North Korea
  • North Macedonia
  • Palestinian Territories
  • Philippines
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Sierra Leone
  • South Africa
  • South Sudan
  • Sri Lanka
  • São Tomé and Principe
  • Turkmenistan

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) required nationalities

  • United Arab Emirates

24-hour VISA-FREE entry at Heathrow airport

  • Eligible to request a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry at London’s Heathrow airport if holding a valid visa from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any EU/Schengen country
  • Must be in transit to/from the country of visa (Ex: if holding a Canada visa, you must be in transit to/from Canada only)
  • Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or next day before midnight)
  • Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
  • Applies to all nationalities

BONUS (FREE eBook Download): Travel 56 countries VISA-FREE with a visa from the US, Canada, Schengen, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan or Singapore

UK TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

United Kingdom UK Tourist Visa Requirements - Visa Application

First, check if you need a visitor visa to travel to the UK in the “UK tourist visa requirements by nationality” section above.

Alternatively, you can check your eligibility and requirements on the UK gov website .

Validity of UK tourist visa

UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months from the date of visa issue.

Example: If your UK visa was issued on January 15, the visa will be valid until July 15. 

NOTE There have been instances where visas were issued with validity starting from the date of travel mentioned in the visa application. 

When to apply for UK visa

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months in advance.

Example: If you plan to visit the UK on April 15, you can apply for your UK visa on or after January 16.

Also, keep in mind that you must apply for your UK visa at least 3 weeks prior to your travel, otherwise, you may not receive your visa on time. There are no refunds if you receive your visa after your travel date. 

IMPORTANT The UK visa process can take up to 3 weeks and even longer in some cases. I strongly recommend applying for your UK visa at least 2 months in advance.

How long can you stay in the UK?

The UK tourist visa allows you to stay up to 180 days in the UK. But if you stay that long continuously in the UK on a tourist visa, you will have serious trouble getting another UK visa in the future or entering the UK next time.

Here is my advice. Stick to the days you have mentioned in your UK visa application. A few days more or less is fine. But staying months on your UK tourist visa will pretty much look like you “live in the UK” rather than “vacation/holiday”. 

Application procedure

The UK visa application is online. You must apply for the visa online at the UK Visas and Immigration website

Below are the steps you will go through for your UK tourist visa application

  • Go to the UK Visas and Immigration website
  • Select your preferred language, type of visa, your country, nearest visa application center, etc
  • Create a login using email and password
  • Complete in the application form
  • Sign the declaration
  • Pay visa fee
  • Submit the application
  • Download and print the submitted visa application form
  • Make an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
  • Attend the appointment at your nearest UK visa application center
  • Submit your passport, visa application and supporting documents at the visa application center
  • If applying from the US, Australia or New Zealand, mail your passport, visa application and biometrics receipt to your nearest visa application center
  • Pickup/receive the passport when the visa decision is made

Below are some of the information you will provide in the application form

  • Your travel dates to the UK
  • Your hotel address and telephone number in the UK
  • Your total estimated cost for the trip
  • Your present home address and how many years you’ve lived there
  • Your parents’ names and their dates of birth
  • Your annual income
  • Your travel history for the past 10 years
  • Your employer details including the address and telephone number

Templates for UK visa by Visa Traveler

Documents required

The following are the documents required for UK visitor visa application 

  • Completed online visa application form with GWF number
  • A passport-size photo (optional)
  • If employed – an employment letter on company letterhead indicating your length of employment, salary, role, etc.
  • If self-employed – a business registration document indicating your business name, date of business, etc.
  • If student – a letter from the school/university on the letterhead indicating your enrollment, leave of absence, etc.
  • Proof of funds ( bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
  • Proof of legal residence (if applying from a 3rd country. you must submit a copy of your visa or residence permit of that country)

Do you need flight tickets and hotel bookings for the UK visa application?

UKVI has stopped asking for flight tickets and hotel bookings for UK visa applications. But some nationalities are still being asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

When you complete your online UK visa application, you will see a checklist of documents to be uploaded. Check if you are asked to submit flight tickets and hotel bookings.

Even if you are asked to submit your flight tickets and hotel bookings, you should not book any flights/hotel until your UK visa is approved.

For flights, get a price quote from British Airways which can be used as a flight itinerary for your UK visa application. Visa ticket booking agencies such as DummyTicket offer flight itineraries for the UK visa for $19, valid for 2-3 weeks.

For hotel, book a refundable or pay at check-in hotel on booking.com or Expedia . Cancel the booking after your visa is approved.

For more options, check out my detailed flight itinerary and hotel reservation articles.

Photo requirements

A passport-size photo is only required if are exempt from biometrics. All tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics. Your fingerprints and digital photos are taken during your biometrics appointment.

Since all tourist visa applicants MUST give their biometrics, a passport-size photo is not required. But, I suggest bringing one with you on the day of your biometrics appointment just in case.

Visa application fee

The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 GBP. You will pay this fee in your local currency. Due to exchange rates, you may end up paying about £2 – £5 GBP more.

You can use the UK home office visa fee wizard to find out the exact visa fee that you would need to pay in your local currency. 

If you are applying for a long-term UK tourist visa, below is the visa fee for 2, 5 and 10-year tourist visas. 

  • 2 years: £361 GBP
  • 5 years: £655 GBP
  • 10 years: £822 GBP

Visa appointment

As part of the online application process, you will be prompted to make a visa appointment at your nearest UK Visa Application Center . Visa Application Centers are run by either VFSGlobal or TLSContact in conjunction with UK Visas and Immigration.

On the day of the appointment, you will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit your original documents. You must bring all your original documents along with one photocopy of each including your passport.

Applicants from the USA, Australia (Adelaide and Hobart only) and New Zealand

You must give your biometrics at your nearest Biometric Enrollment Center and later send/post your documents to the nearest UK Visa Application Center.

During your online UK visa application, you will be prompted to make a biometrics appointment at your nearest Biometric enrollment center.

  • Biometric enrollment centers in the USA are run by the US Homeland Security.
  • Biometric enrollment centers in Australia are run by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
  • Biometric enrollment centers in New Zealand are run by Immigration New Zealand.

The biometrics appointment takes about 10-15 minutes. You will give your fingerprints and photo. You will receive an acknowledgment stamp on the biometric appointment confirmation.

You must then mail your original passport, visa application, biometric confirmation with the stamp, supporting documents and return postage to the UK Visa Application Center you have selected during your online visa application.

You will be notified via email when the UK Visa Application Center receives your documents.

Visa processing time

The UK tourist visa processing takes up to 3 weeks. There have been incidents where UKVI has taken over 2 months to process, especially when the visa applications are “not straightforward”.

UKVI considers a visa application “not straightforward” if additional information is required to process the visa. Additional information can be, verifying information, background check or requesting additional documents. UKVI usually notifies you in such cases and requests any additional documentation necessary.

Keeping such incidents in mind, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

If you have to travel sooner, you should purchase the “Priority Visa Service” while applying online. Or at least before you mail/submit your documents. This way your visa application will be processed within 5 working days.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE When I applied for my UK visa, the visa processing time was about 2 weeks. I had a planned trip to Canada before my trip to the UK. My trip to Canada was in 4 weeks, so I thought I had enough time to apply for my UK visa. However after I submitted my passport, the email confirmation said the visa process would take up to 4 weeks. I panicked. I went ahead and paid for the priority visa service. I panicked again. Then I emailed a formal visa withdrawal request, so I could at least get my passport back and make my trip to Canada. However, my visa was processed within 2 days of paying the priority visa service fee. Please do not make the same mistake as I did. Apply for your UK visa at least 2 months prior to your travel.

Visa application status tracking

Online visa application tracking is NOT AVAILABLE on the UK Visas and Immigration website. To track your UK visa application status, you must use UK Visas and Immigration’s email or phone option, which unfortunately is NOT FREE.

UKVI charges for all phone and email inquiries. 

Below are UK Visa and Immigration phone, email details and charges.

PHONE Telephone: +44 2034811736 Available 24 hours from Monday to Friday Calls cost £1.37 per minute plus any international call charges

EMAIL Email communication must be initiated via Email UK Visas and Immigration Email inquiries cost £5.48. Follow-up emails after that are not charged. You will receive a response to your email within 2 working days.

You must give out your credit card information for billing when you start the phone inquiry. For email, you must fill out the payment form and then you can submit your email inquiry.

PERSONAL OPINION Email inquiries generally receive a standard response saying that your application is “in process”. Phone inquiries are slightly better and cheaper.

Priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK urgently, you can opt for the “Priority Visa Service”.  This service is expensive and may not be available in all countries. If available, you will see the option in your online UK visa application. 

  • Priority visa service fee: £220 GBP
  • Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 5 working days

Priority visa service must be purchased during your online visa application. This will ensure your visa is processed within 5 days.

Purchasing this service after you have submitted/mailed your documents will take much longer than 5 working days. You must first pay the fee on the Visa Application Center (VAC) website and then email the receipt to the Visa Application Center where you have submitted/sent your documents. It can take more than a day for the VAC staff to locate your packet and push it into the priority queue

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I purchased my priority service after I had mailed my documents. My visa application was approved within two days of buying the priority visa service.

Super priority visa service

If you would need to travel to the UK immediately, you can opt for “Super Priority Visa Service”. This service comes with a hefty price tag, so purchase this service only in super urgent, emergency cases. 

  • Super priority visa service fee: £956 GBP
  • Visa processing time: Guaranteed in 24 hours

Cancel your UK visa application

If you haven’t given your biometrics at the visa application center yet, you can cancel your UK visa application and get a full refund of your visa fee. The procedure to cancel your UK visa application depends on at what stage your application is in.

Application not submitted and fee not paid : If you haven’t paid your fee and haven’t submitted your application, there is a “Delete Application” option that will delete your current visa application.

Application not submitted but fee already paid : If you have already paid your fee and have not yet submitted your application, you can still delete your application but you may have to send a formal refund request in writing to the visa application center.

Application submitted, fee paid but haven’t given your biometrics : If you haven’t given your biometrics at VFS/BLS, you can cancel your application and request for a refund. The refunds take 4 weeks. 

Application submitted, fee paid, biometric given , and documents/passport already submitted: If you have already given your biometrics and submitted your documents/passport, you CANNOT cancel your visa application anymore. You can only WITHDRAW your visa application. You must email the visa application center a formal withdrawal request. Upon receipt of the withdrawal request, the visa application center will return/mail your passport back. Any visa fee and priority service fee paid are not refundable. 

IMPORTANT Even though UKVI says the refunds are processed in 4 weeks, it usually takes 8 weeks or even longer. There have been instances where applicants waited several weeks and some even gave up on their refunds. However, I have seen applicants having success in getting their refunds by reminding UKVI with phone calls or emails. It costs about $5 USD to email them, but it helps in getting your refund eventually. 

Withdraw your UK visa application

The UK visa application center keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process, which could be 3 weeks or more. There may be emergencies where you need to have your passport with you. The only way to request your passport back is by formally withdrawing your visa application. 

If you withdraw your application, the visa fee and any priority service fee you have paid are NOT refundable.

To withdraw a visa application, you must submit a withdrawal request along with the reason for the withdrawal to the visa application center via email. It might take up to 72 hours for the consulate to locate your packet and send it back to you.

You must first call/email the UK Visas and Immigration mentioning your intention to withdraw your application. They will guide you through the process of withdrawing your application. Usually, the UK visa application withdrawal request should be a signed document with personal information including the GWF number. This document must be printed and signed. It must be scanned and emailed to the visa application center. Below is a sample withdrawal request letter.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hereby request to withdraw my UK visa application. I understand that the visa fee is non-refundable. I also understand that my package may not be shipped for up to 72 hours.

Full Name of the Applicant: <name> GWF Number: <GWF number> Date of Birth: <date of birth> Nationality: <Nationality> Country of Residence: <Country of residence> Passport number: <Passport number> Type of Visa Applied: General Visit (up to 6 months) Biometric taken date:  <biometric date> Visa application centre’s address:  <address of the visa application center where you have submitted your documents> Contact number of the applicant: <Your phone number>

Priority Service Paid: <YES/NO> Priority Service Paid On: <Priority service purchased date>

Reason for Withdrawal: Emergency international travel has been scheduled. I need to have my passport in order to travel. Please return my passport as soon as possible. Thank you!

<Your signature here> Signed: <Your full name> Date: <date>

IMPORTANT Cancellation or withdrawal is NOT a refusal. It WILL NOT affect your future UK visa applications. You don’t need to mention it in your future UK visa applications either.

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE UK

United Kingdom UK Tourist Visa Requirements - UK Currency

Entering the UK by air

At the immigration, the officers may ask you questions about your trip, how long you plan to stay, your next destination, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use OnwardTicket to get proof of your onward ticket. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The immigration officer at Heathrow Airport asked me to show my return/onward ticket. I had a print of my onward ticket, so quickly took it out and gave it to the immigration officer.

Get a proof of onward ticket for your trip from OnwardTicket

Leaving the UK by air

If you are flying out of Heathrow Airport, make sure to arrive early. The airport is huge and you may have to take a bus from the gate to the flight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GWF number in UK visa application ?

GWF reference number is the unique visa application number that was provided to you on your visa application submission. You must provide your GWF number when calling or emailing UK Visas and Immigration. Without the GWF number, UK Visas and Immigration will not be able to provide you with a status update on your visa application.

What to do if my UK visa application is refused?

If your UK visa application is refused, the first thing is to understand the  reasons for your UK visa refusal . If the reason is due to missing information, proof of funds or documentation, make sure to fix these the next time you apply for your UK visa.

Write a detailed cover letter explaining the reasons for your previous visa refusal, missing information/documentation and any additional information/documentation that you have provided in the new application. This will help the ECOs cut to the chase and focus on the new information/documentation.

There is no “appeal” for UK visa. So, re-apply for your UK visa by making sure you have the new information, proofs and documents that were lacking previously. You must pay the visa fee again as the fee paid for your previous application was non-refundable.

If you do not know the reason for your visa refusal/denial, give at least 6 months before you apply for the visa again. 

Can I get my UK visa application fee refund if denied?

No. The visa fee and any priority service fee paid are non-refundable if your visa application is denied. The visa fee is also non-refundable in incidents where the visa is approved for less number of days than requested.

I’m planning to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip. Should I apply for my UK visa first or Schengen visa first?

If you plan to visit the UK and Schengen countries on a single trip, ALWAYS apply for your UK visa first. 

UKVI keeps the passport for the entirety of the visa process and there is no visa status tracking. Calls and emails to customer service are charged. Even if you pay and contact, you will usually get a canned response. If your UK visa is refused, there is no “appeal”. You can only re-apply, which means you have to repeat the entire process again.

On the other hand, the Schengen visa application process is much streamlined. There is application tracking, customer service and appeal. 

I highly recommend applying for your UK visa first and get done with it. After that, apply for your Schengen visa. 

When applying for your UK visa, show a “UK-only” itinerary for your UK visa. This eliminates the need for submitting your Schengen visa, flights in/out of the Schengen region, etc. 

United Kingdom UK Tourist Visa Requirements - London Tower Bridge

The UK tourist visa requirements are clear and easy to understand. But, the visa application process is long and expensive. Apply at least 2 months in advance, and follow all the proper steps and documentation. Tourist visas are usually multiple-entry with 6 months validity.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Immigration Advice Service

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UK visas allow foreigners to visit, work or live in the UK. Applicants can apply for visas through the British consulate or embassy in the United States.

Depending on what country you are from, you may not require a visa, so it is important to check your eligibility before applying for a UK visa. IAS can help. Call us today on +1 844 290 6312 or contact us online.

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  • What is a UK Visa?

UK visas are documents given to applicants that allow you to visit, work or live in the UK within a given period of time. There are many types of visas available, and your reasons for travelling to the United Kingdom dictate what sort of visa you should apply for at any given point. You must ensure that your visa application has been approved before you travel.

Foreign nationals can obtain multiple different visas over the course of their time spent in the UK, to keep up with the changing nature of their personal requirements for staying in the country. The type of visa that you can obtain are dependent on:

  • Your nation or territory of origin
  • Your reasons for coming to the UK
  • How long you plan to stay in the UK
  • Your personal circumstances or specific skillset.

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What types of visas does the united kingdom offer, who is exempt from applying for a uk visa, standard visitor visa, study in the uk visas, work in the uk, family visas, how to apply for a uk visa, what documents do i need for uk visa application, what do i do if my visa application was refused, how can ias help.

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Examples of the types of UK visas you can apply for as a foreigner are:

  • Transit visas
  • Tourist and short-term visit visas
  • Work and business visas

Investor Visas

  • Study visas
  • Family visas
  • Residence visas, indefinite leave to remain , EEA residence permits
  • Electronic Visa Waivers
  • Asylum or humanitarian protection visas
  • Stateless person visas
  • Other visas.

how to apply visit visa for usa from uk

If you are a U.S citizen, you do not need to apply for a short-term visitor visa. This means that if you plan to go to the UK for tourism, visiting friends or family, visiting for business purposes or medical purposes, then you will only need a valid U.S passport to travel.

If you plan to be in the UK for longer than six months, then you will need to apply for the visa most relevant to your circumstances and reasons for staying.

Below is a list of countries that don’t usually require a visa to visit the UK on a short-term basis (under six months). If you have dual citizenship with these countries then these will apply to you.

EU, EEA, Swiss and Commonwealth States

Visa-free entry is offered for up to six months for citizens from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, USA, and most Commonwealth states, so long as they present a valid passport at border controls. You can check whether you need a visa for the UK by using this government checker – please note this list is subject to change, and depending on your circumstances you may still need to apply for a visa. If you’re unsure, we can help – contact us today online or call us on +1 844 290 6312 .

The Common Travel Area (CTA)

The Common Travel Area is an agreement between the UK, the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), the Isle of Man and Ireland. It states that residents of these islands are allowed to travel, work, live and sometimes vote freely in each of these jurisdictions. Access to government benefits and health services are also available.

Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

The electronic visa waiver program is available to nationals of certain Middle Eastern countries. You are eligible for an electronic visa waiver if you are from one of the following countries:

  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates.

The EVW fee is £30 and allows you to visit the UK for up to six months for tourism, studying, business or medical treatment. If you are travelling for different purposes, you may need to apply for a visa instead.

Our expert team is here to provide you with the assistance and guidance you need to make your UK visa application a success. Contact Us

This is one of the most common visas that applicants can apply for. With this visa, you can do the following:

  • Travel around the UK
  • Visit friends and family
  • Conduct business meetings or attend interviews
  • Study short recreational courses
  • Short-term volunteering
  • Travel for medical purposes (£200)
  • Travel for academic purposes (£200)
  • Take part in a short-term school or university exchange programme.

You are not allowed to work on this visa. This Standard Visitor visa costs £100 and must be applied for within 3 months of travelling to the UK. Please note that if you are a U.S citizen, you do not need to apply for this visa as you enjoy exemption.

If you travel in and out of the country regularly, you can opt for a long-term Standard Visitor Visa instead, which allow you to be in the UK for up to 6 months each year.

If you plan to visit the UK to get married, you must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa or register a civil partnership.

Transit Visa

If you are travelling to another country but need to stopover in the UK for less than 48 hours, you can apply for a Standard Visitor Transit Visa instead, which costs £64. Again, U.S citizens are exempt from this requirement.

A student visa allows you to study in higher education institutions for the duration of your course. The institution must sponsor you and provide you with written confirmation of your placement on the course.

Usually, you can work on this visa too.

Child Student visas are available for children ages 4-17 who want to come to the UK to study at an independent school.

The cost of an adult or child student visa is:

  • £363 to apply for a student visa from outside of the UK, or
  • £490 to extend or switch to a student visa whilst in the UK.

Graduate visa routes are also available in the UK.

how to apply visit visa for usa from uk

The UK offers long and short-term basis work visas to foreign nationals, and there are many different types of work visas available. Work visas allow you to work and live freely in the UK.

Visa holders may be able to apply for permanent residence ( indefinite leave to remain ) after a period of time working in the UK (typically after 5 years or longer, but some work visas offer the opportunity after 3 years).

The new Points-Based System (PBS)

The points-based system is a new immigration system deployed in 2021 that offers visa flexibility for skilled foreign nationals being recruited by UK companies.

In order to apply to work in the UK, all foreign nationals must achieve 70 points or higher to be considered in criteria including skills levels, salary levels, education level and English language skills.

Work Visas Available for Foreign Nationals

Some visas are temporary work visas, which allow you to work on a short-term basis in the UK. Generally, temporary work visas allow you to work for up to one or two years, so long as you continue to meet the visa eligibility requirements.

Below is a list of the type of work visas you can apply for:

  • Overseas Domestic Worker visa
  • Skilled Worker visa
  • Health and Care Worker visa
  • Global Business Mobility visas
  • Representative of an Overseas Business visa
  • Seasonal Worker visa
  • Government Authorized Exchange visa
  • Creative Worker visa
  • Religious Worker visa
  • Charity Worker visa
  • International Agreement visa.

Investor visas are available to entrepreneurs looking to build a business in the UK or expand their business overseas.

  • Start-up Visa
  • Innovator Founder visa

how to apply visit visa for usa from uk

Our team of expert advisors is ready to assist you every step of the way in obtaining your UK visa. Contact Us

If you have family members or a spouse living permanently in the UK, or family members who are British citizens, then you can apply for a family visa to live with them in the UK. This is also a route towards permanent settlement in the UK.

If you want to travel to the UK on a long-term basis to be with family, then you can apply for a family visa .

If you wish to visit family on a short-term basis and your country doesn’t qualify for visa-free entry into the UK, then you can apply for the short-term Family Visitor visa. This visa is also the best option if your family member is in the UK on a visa themselves.

If your family member is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If your family member was living in the UK before 31 December 2020, then you can apply for a free family permit, which allows you to live, work and study for up to 6 months in the UK.

The application process for applying for UK visas depends on which visa you are hoping to get. Most applications can be applied for online, or you can apply in paper form at the UK Consulate or immigration centre in your country of origin.

Each nation has a different relationship to the UK, and therefore there are unique opportunities available to different foreign citizens. If you have dual citizenship, it is recommended that you check out the visa options available to both countries. For example, if you have U.S and Irish dual citizenship, it may be better to make use of your Irish citizenship when travelling to the UK, due to Ireland being part of the Common Travel Area.

Waiting times for visa approvals vary from visa to visa – some take as little as one week, and others can take up to six months or longer, depending on how lengthy the application process is. It is therefore important to make sure you apply within a comfortable time frame before you travel.

Many applicants are eligible for more than one type of visa as their circumstances cover several scenarios. It can be difficult to know which visa is right for you. That’s where IAS can help. Contact us online or call us on +844 290 6312 for expert legal advice today.

In general, you will require the following documentation:

  • A completed visa application form
  • Two recent passport photos
  • A valid passport with at least 3 months available before expiry
  • Proof of financial means to be in the UK for the duration of your stay
  • Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel receipt or a letter confirming your visit to a friend/relative
  • Travel itinerary – including any festivals, tours, meetings or places you plan to visit during your stay
  • Confirmation of visa payment.
  • Depending on the visa you apply for and where you come from, you may also need to provide:
  • Biometric information – especially for visas that allow you to be in the UK for longer than 6 months
  • Tuberculosis test results
  • UK visa invitation letter from your employer or educational institution
  • Translations of relevant documents into English or Welsh.

Please note further documentation may be required depending on the visa that you apply for, and in some circumstances you may be required to attend an interview.

Sometimes, applications for visas are refused by the Immigration Office. There are various reasons why – sometimes it is simply down to an error in your application, such as submitting incorrect documentation. However, sometimes there may be a wider issue at hand, especially if you have been detained, have a significant criminal conviction or have ever entered or stayed in the UK illegally.

If your application is refused, you will receive a letter or email explaining the reasons for refusal. It should indicate further steps you can take if you wish to challenge the decision. Usually this will be in the form of:

  • An administrative review, or
  • Immigration decision appeal.

Finding the right visa for you can be a challenging process, particularly if your personal circumstances are complex. You may be eligible for more than one visa, and are not sure which one is the right visa for you. Perhaps your plans in the UK span several years and will require multiple different types of visas. Perhaps you are from a country that doesn’t require a visa for short-term purposes, but you are not sure whether you should still apply for a longer-term visa for your circumstances.

If you have already applied for a visa and have had your application refused, it can be especially challenging to know what to do next. Reviews and appeals can be expensive, and visa refusals are marked on your immigration record, which could cause issues in the future when applying for other visas, or even if you decided to apply for indefinite leave or citizenship.

This is why IAS exists – we have a team of expert immigration attorneys to support you with your visa applications and refusals, and can advise you on the best action to take so that you can feel confident that you will get the results you want, and can enjoy your time in the UK worry-free. Contact us today online or call us on +1 844 290 6312 .

Last modified on August 10th, 2023 at 6:59 am

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Related pages for your continued reading.

Immigration attorneys, u.s citizenship, british citizenship, spouse visa uk, u.s. k1 fiance visa, how long does it take to get a uk visa.

The Standard Visitor visa generally takes around 5 weeks to receive. Most other visas may take longer – some can take up to six months or longer. Application process times vary depending on which visa you apply for, and whether you will be required to provide additional documentation or attend an interview during the process.

It is therefore essential to apply with plenty of time between your application date and the date you plan to visit the UK, as you will not be able to enter the country without a valid visa unless you are from a visa-free nation.

Can I Apply for a UK Visa with a Criminal Record?

Applying for a UK visa with a criminal record negatively impacts your visa application process, however it does not necessarily mean that you will be refused a UK visa. Your chances of having your visa accepted depend on the severity of your conviction and punishment. If you committed a serious crime that involved a long prison sentence, then it will be more difficult to enter the UK.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for the UK?

If you are from the United States and wish to travel to the UK for a period of six months or less, and don’t plan to earn money in the country during that time, than you will not be required to apply for a visa, as the U.S is listed as a visa-free nation for the United Kingdom.

However, if you plan to be in the UK for more than six months or are travelling for work, to study or for family reunion, then you will need to apply for either a long-term Standard Visitor visa, or the relevant visa that aligns with your circumstances.

Please note you will still require a valid passport within 3 months of the expiry date as well as any further documentation listed in the article above.

© 2024 Immigration Advice Service LTD. OISC Registration Number - F201100299. Our Flagship London Immigration Lawyer office is open for business as usual.

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Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool below. Not all visa applications can be completed on the day of the interview; please read the information below for more details .

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Global Visa Wait Times

Wait Time for Interview

The estimated wait time to receive a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate and is based on workload and staffing and can vary from week to week. The information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment.

Wait Time for Interview Waiver

Wait times for applicants eligible for Interview Waiver are applicable only for locations where applicants schedule appointments to submit their passport and any required documents to a U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time estimate does not account for the time required for a consular officer to adjudicate the application nor mailing time of passports or other documents. Refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will apply to determine your eligibility for Interview Waiver and for instructions for submitting a nonimmigrant visa application. Note that applicants must be a national or resident of the country where they are applying to be eligible to apply via Interview Waiver.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section  where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.

In all cases : You must first submit the online visa application form (DS-160), pay the application fee, and schedule the first available interview appointment. Only at this point will a consular section consider your request for an expedited appointment.

Note: Travel for the purpose of attending weddings and graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, participating in an annual business/academic/professional conference, or enjoying last-minute tourism does not qualify for expedited appointments. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

These estimates do not include time required for administrative processing, which may affect some applications. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case.

There are only two possible outcomes for U.S. visa applications. The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the consular officer must refuse that application. However, some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. At the conclusion of the administrative processing period, the consular officer might conclude that an applicant is now qualified for the visa for which he or she applied. The officer may also conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Important Notice:   Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.

About Visa Processing Wait Times – Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Information about nonimmigrant visa wait times for interviews and visa processing time frames are shown on this website, as well as on U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites worldwide. It should be noted that the “Wait Times for a Nonimmigrant Visa to be Processed” information by country does not include time required for administrative processing. Processing wait time also does not include the time required to return the passport to applicants, by either courier services or the local mail system.

In addition, it is important to thoroughly review all information on the specific  Embassy or Consulate Visa Section website  for local procedures and instructions, such as how to make an interview appointment. Embassy and Consulate websites will also explain any additional procedures for students, exchange visitors and those persons who need an earlier visa interview appointment.

About Wait Times

* Calendar days refers to every day of the week, including days when embassies are closed (such as weekends and holidays).

† Work days refers only to days when the embassy is open and does not include weekends and holidays.      

‡ A, G, and NATO applications are excluded from these wait times, as they are processed separately.

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Getting a visitor visa for family and friends

This advice applies to England. See advice for See advice for Northern Ireland , See advice for Scotland , See advice for Wales

Your friend or family member can apply for a visitor visa so they can visit you in the UK. Visitor visas are usually for up to 6 months.

Bringing your partner to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership

Your partner can’t use a standard visitor visa to come to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.

If you and your partner want to live in the UK after you get married or register a civil partnership, check if they can apply for a partner visa .

If you and your partner don’t want to stay in the UK together, your partner can come to the UK on a marriage visitor visa. This means they’ll have to leave the UK within 6 months. Check how to get a marriage visitor visa on GOV.UK .

Check if your visitor needs a visa

You’ll need to check if they need a visitor visa on GOV.UK if you don’t already know - it depends on their nationality.

If your visitor doesn't need a visa, they might need to get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) before they travel to the UK. You can check if your visitor needs an ETA on GOV.UK .

Some visitors can scan their own passport at an ‘eGate’ instead of speaking to an immigration officer. Check who can use the eGates on GOV.UK .

If they can't use an eGate, they should still be prepared to explain why they’re visiting when they get to the border. If the Border Force thinks they might try to stay longer, they can refuse them entry

If you’re helping your visitor apply for a visitor visa

They’ll have to apply online .

Make sure your visitor puts their information in where it asks for the applicant’s details .

After you fill in the form, the visitor will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. Check where their nearest visa application centre is  before you apply, because it might be in a different country.

The online form asks you some questions to get to the visa you need. 

If you need more support with your application 

You should consider getting specialist advice if you’re unsure about the application. It might cost you money but it can save you time and hassle. Your local Citizens Advice can either help you or let you know where to get expert advice.

Documents you’ll need to include

You’ll need to include documents that support their application when you send it off. The online form will give you guidance on what to include, but here are some things to keep in mind.

If your documents aren’t in English or Welsh, you’ll need to provide certified English translations of your documents with the originals. Each translation has to include:

confirmation from the translator that it’s an accurate translation of the original

the date of the translation

the translator's full name and signature

the translator's contact details

Prove they’ll be returning to their country after their visit

You could show proof your visitor has a job or studies to go back to in their home country. You can also show they have family who depend on them in their home country.

Prove there’s enough money for the trip

You’ll have to provide evidence to show that the visitor’s trip can be afforded, whether it’s being paid for by them or by you. 

If the visitor is paying for themselves, they’ll have to include documents proving that they can afford it, for example bank statements or payslips.

If you’re paying for their visit (eg for their flights and accommodation), you’ll need to prove that you can afford the visitor’s trip as well as your own costs - for example your rent, mortgage and general expenses.

an estimate of how much the trip will cost - this needs to be as accurate as possible

proof of your income and where you work, for example payslips or an employment contract

proof that you have enough money to pay for the visitor’s stay, for example recent bank statements

proof that you’re in the UK legally, for example a copy of your passport or visa

Prove you have a genuine relationship

You’ll have to show how you’re connected to the person visiting you.

If the person visiting you is a friend, boyfriend or girlfriend, you might need to give stronger proof they’ll be returning to their country after their visit.

If your visa is refused

You can read the government’s guidance on reasons for refusing visas on GOV.UK, if you're concerned the visa you're applying for might be refused.

You can’t usually appeal if the visitor visa is refused. It's quicker and easier to apply again. Make sure you deal with the reasons your first application was refused.

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Page last reviewed on 13 May 2019

The Royal Society

Global Talent visa: overview

The Global Talent visa is a UK immigration category for talented and promising individuals in specific sectors wishing to work in the UK. It replaced the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa in February 2020.

To be considered for entry under the Global Talent visa, applicants must normally* seek endorsement from one of six endorsing bodies engaged by the UK Home Office. 

If you are applying for endorsement in the fields of science, engineering, medicine, the social sciences or the humanities, or for other academic and research roles, the Home Office will refer your application to the British Academy , Royal Academy of Engineering , Royal Society or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) which will make an endorsement decision based on the evidence you provide. 

If you are applying for endorsement in non-academic fields of arts and culture and digital technology, your application will be referred to Arts Council England or Tech Nation , which follow separate endorsement criteria. Please see Appendix Global Talent of the Immigration Rules and the guidance on GOV.UK for further information.

If endorsement is granted, the final immigration decision rests with the Home Office.

*Holders of certain prestigious prizes can apply for a visa without going through the initial endorsement stage. The list of eligible awards and further information is available on GOV.UK .

Researchers seeking endorsement for a Global Talent visa

There are four routes for eligible academics and researchers to obtain endorsement for a Global Talent visa: 

  • Academic and research appointments – fast-track endorsement for individuals who have accepted an eligible position  at an approved UK higher education institution or research institute  with responsibility either for academic, research or innovation leadership and development, or for directing or leading an individual or team research or innovation project or programme of work. This route is administered by the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society.
  • Individual fellowships – fast-track endorsement for individuals who have been awarded an individual fellowship on the list  approved by the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society. The fellowship must be held currently or within the last five years.
  • Endorsed funders – fast-track endorsement for researchers and specialists whose name or job title is specified in a successful grant application from an endorsed funder approved by UKRI . In order to be eligible, researchers must be hosted or employed by an eligible institution approved by UKRI .
  • Peer review – standard endorsement for individuals who submit an application for full peer review  by the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering or Royal Society.

Our  applicant decision tree  will help you identify which route may be most appropriate for you. We recommend you read the full guidance for each route before applying.

For the endorsed funders route, UKRI will review applications from any academic or research discipline. For the other three routes, you must select the appropriate endorsing body based on your field of research. 

The British Academy reviews applications from the humanities and social sciences, the Royal Academy of Engineering covers engineering, and the Royal Society covers the natural and medical sciences.

The full list of eligible disciplines and sub-disciplines per endorsing body is available on GOV.UK .

For queries, please see frequently asked questions  or email [email protected] .

This guidance was last updated on 23 January 2024.

What does the Global Talent visa offer?

How do I apply for a Global Talent visa?

Which route is right for me?

Route 1: Academic and research appointments

Route 2: Individual fellowships

Route 3: Endorsed funders

Route 4: Peer review

Frequently asked questions

Related content

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The application and assessment process

Further information on eligibility and the application process for Royal Society grants.

Crystals of the phage tail fibre protein Hylp1. Credit: Dr Edward J Taylor, University Research Fellow from the University of Lincoln

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how to apply visit visa for usa from uk

Visas and immigration

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COMMENTS

  1. How to apply for a U.S. Tourism or Visitor Visa (the B-2 visas)

    If you are applying for a visa for the first time, or are applying to renew a visa, you are required to take the same steps. Step One: Complete the online DS-160 and print the confirmation page for each person applying for a visa, regardless of age. Answer the questions to the best of your ability; we cannot assist you in completing the form.

  2. Entry requirements

    Visa requirements. You will need either an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver or a visa to enter or transit the USA as a visitor. You are not normally eligible for an ...

  3. Visas

    A visa is issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A visa entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission; it does not guarantee entry. An immigration official at the port of entry determines the visa holder's eligibility for admission into the United States.

  4. Visitor Visa

    A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny ...

  5. Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Apply for a Standard Visitor visa

    If you need a Standard Visitor visa, you must apply online before you travel to the UK and attend an appointment at a visa application centre. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you ...

  6. Visa for USA from UK

    Do I Need a Visa For USA From UK? If you are a citizen of the UK you are not required to apply for a visa for USA since the UK is one of the 41 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. British citizens, with the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, have been part of this list since 1988.

  7. Apply for a UK visa in the USA

    To apply for a UK visa in the USA you need to: apply online. pay your fee. book and attend your biometric appointment. Attend an Application Support Center ( ASC) mail your application.

  8. DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

    The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé (e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal ...

  9. Official ESTA Application Website, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    You are a citizen or eligible national of a Visa Waiver Program country. You are currently not in possession of a visitor's visa. Your travel is for 90 days or less. You plan to travel to the United States for business or pleasure. You want to apply for a new authorization for one person or a group of applications for two or more persons.

  10. U.S. Travelers Will Soon Have to Pay to Enter the U.K

    Karl Hendon/Getty. U.S. visitors—as well as visitors from Europe, Australia and Canada —will soon be required to apply for permission to enter the U.K. through a new scheme known as Electronic ...

  11. UK Visa Application from USA

    To apply for a UK visa from USA, Green card holders must provide the following documents: Completed UK visa application form. Two UK visa photographs that are taken within the past six months. Your valid Passport. It must be valid for three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the UK after your trip.

  12. Nonimmigrant Visas

    Nonimmigrant Visas. In general, a citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States temporarily must first obtain a U.S. nonimmigrant visa, which is placed in the traveler's passport. For information regarding the new VWP/ESTA eligibility requirements, click here. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for information ...

  13. UK tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

    To visit any of these four countries, you would need a UK tourist visa. UK tourist visas are valid for 6 months and you can stay up to 180 days in the UK. The UK tourist visa application process is long and there is no status tracking. Make sure to start your UK visa process at least two months from your intended date of travel to the UK.

  14. USA: apply for a UK visa

    It gives you information on: applying for your application online. paying fees. booking and attending your appointment at an application support centre (ASC) posting your application form ...

  15. UK Visas for Americans

    Applicants can apply for visas through the British consulate or embassy in the United States. Depending on what country you are from, you may not require a visa, so it is important to check your eligibility before applying for a UK visa. IAS can help. Call us today on +1 844 290 6312 or contact us online.

  16. Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

    If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements. While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool.

  17. Visa Appointment Wait Times

    Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date. Important Notice: Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days ...

  18. Nonimmigrant visa appointments at Embassy London or Consulate Belfast

    Visa Appointment Service telephone call center. The call center is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am and 5:00 pm (local time; EST in the United States). It is closed on all U.K. and U.S. holidays. Callers within the United Kingdom should dial 020-3608-6998. Callers from the United States should dial 170-3543-9334.

  19. Getting a visitor visa for family and friends

    Your friend or family member can apply for a visitor visa so they can visit you in the UK. Visitor visas are usually for up to 6 months. Bringing your partner to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership. Your partner can't use a standard visitor visa to come to the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.

  20. How to apply for a visa to come to the UK

    If you want to visit the UK. Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example: for a holiday or to see family and friends. for a business trip or meeting. to do a ...

  21. Global Talent visa

    Global Talent visa: overview. The Global Talent visa is a UK immigration category for talented and promising individuals in specific sectors wishing to work in the UK. It replaced the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa in February 2020. To be considered for entry under the Global Talent visa, applicants must normally* seek endorsement from one of six endorsing bodies engaged by the UK Home Office.

  22. Applying for the Visa

    Petition approved by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in London. As soon as the Immigrant Visa Unit receives your approved petition from USCIS London, they will write to you about booking your appointment. This will be within 8 weeks of your petitioner receiving the I-797 Notice of Action.

  23. Visas and immigration

    Apply to visit, work, study, settle or seek asylum in the UK ... Check if you need a UK visa, how to apply, sign in, manage your application, biometric residence permits (BRPs), share codes ...