UK Citizens · US Travel Authorisation

UK citizens need an
ESTA to visit the US

The US Electronic System for Travel Authorization is required for all UK passport holders before boarding a flight to the United States. Fast, secure applications with expert review before every submission.

Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco
✓  Expert Review
✓  Fast Processing
✓  Individuals & Families

What is the US ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a mandatory pre-travel requirement for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries — including the United Kingdom — who wish to visit the United States for tourism, business, or transit.

ESTA is not a visa. It is an automated eligibility check linked electronically to your passport. Once approved, it permits multiple trips to the United States for up to 90 days per visit over a two-year period, without the need to visit a US embassy.

US Customs and Border Protection retains the right to refuse admission on arrival even with an approved ESTA, but holding a valid authorisation is a strict requirement before boarding any flight or vessel bound for the United States.

New York City skyline at night
2 yrs
Validity period
90 days
Maximum stay per visit
0–72 hrs
Typical processing time

Do UK citizens need a US ESTA?

Yes. UK citizens travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program are required to obtain an approved ESTA before departure. This applies to tourism, business visits, and transit through US airports.

An ESTA is not required if you already hold a valid US visa. UK citizens who have previously been refused a US visa, or who have visited certain countries, may not be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program and will need to apply for a visa instead.

Not sure if you qualify? Visit ETA Permits and click Your Journey Begins Here — you can check your eligibility instantly on the application page.

Passport tip: To travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, UK citizens must hold a valid e-passport (electronic passport) with a chip. Older passports without a chip are not accepted for ESTA travel.

How to apply

Our simple three-step process ensures your US ESTA application is accurate, complete, and submitted correctly.

1

Complete the form

Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel plans on our secure online form. Takes around 10 minutes and covers the whole family in one session.

2

Expert review

Our team checks every application for accuracy before submission to US Customs and Border Protection — minimising errors and the risk of rejection.

3

Receive your ESTA

Your approved ESTA is delivered by email and linked electronically to your passport. No printing required — present your passport at check-in and at the US border.

Taking the family
on a US trip?

Every traveller — including children and infants — requires their own individual ESTA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it easy to apply for all family members together in a single session.

Our team reviews all applications at once, so nothing is missed before your trip. Fully inclusive pricing means no surprises — the price you see is the price you pay.

Apply for your family
Family on holiday in an American city

Frequently asked questions

How long is a US ESTA valid for UK citizens?
An approved ESTA is valid for two years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. Within that period you may make multiple trips to the United States, each for up to 90 days.
Do I need an ESTA to transit through the US?
In most cases yes — even if you are connecting through a US airport and not leaving the international zone, a valid ESTA is required. Check the full requirements at ETA Permits for your specific itinerary.
Can I work in the US on an ESTA?
No. The ESTA is for tourism, short business visits, and transit only. It does not permit employment in the United States. If you intend to work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate US visa.
Do children need their own ESTA?
Yes. Every traveller — including infants and children — requires their own individual ESTA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it easy to apply for all family members at once.
What if my ESTA application is denied?
If your ESTA is denied you will need to apply for a US B-1/B-2 visitor visa through the standard application process. ETA Permits reviews every application before submission to reduce the risk of rejection.
Do I need to print my ESTA?
No. Your ESTA is linked electronically to your passport. You do not need to carry a printed copy — simply present your e-passport at check-in and at the US border.

Ready to apply for your US ESTA?

Fast, simple and fully inclusive pricing. Expert review before every submission to US Customs and Border Protection.

Begin your Journey…