Short answer
Online travel authorization
British citizens don't need a full visa for the US, but must get an electronic travel authorization online before travelling.
How to apply
Visa Waiver Program countries (including the UK) need an approved ESTA before travel and can stay up to 90 days.
Everyone else applies for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa with an interview at a US embassy; waiting times for interviews can be long, so apply early.
Official website: US Department of State – Visitor visas
Before you travel
- Make sure your British passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and has blank pages.
- Carry a return or onward ticket, your hotel booking and proof that you can pay for your stay; border officers can ask for them even when no visa is needed.
- Check whether your airline needs to see your visa or authorization at check-in; many will refuse boarding without it.
- Visas for work, study or long stays follow different rules from the tourist rules on this page.
Visa rules for the US by passport
 Pakistan | Visa required |
 India | Visa required |
 Bangladesh | Visa required |
 Nigeria | Visa required |
 Philippines | Visa required |
 Egypt | Visa required |
 United Kingdom | eTA |
Frequently asked questions
Do British citizens need a visa for the US?
Online travel authorization. British citizens don't need a full visa for the US, but must get an electronic travel authorization online before travelling.
How long can British citizens stay in the US?
The permitted stay depends on the authorization issued; check the official website before travel.
Where do British citizens apply for a United States visa?
Use the official website: US Department of State – Visitor visas (travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit.html). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra service fees.
How many countries can British passport holders visit without a visa?
British passport holders can visit 120 countries visa-free and 43 more with a visa on arrival or eTA.
Based on the Passport Index dataset with our verified corrections for recent rule changes, last reviewed October 19, 2026. Entry rules change often and depend on your passport, purpose of travel and onward tickets. Always confirm with the official website or embassy before you book.