UK ETA for US Citizens 2026: Cost, Processing Time and Validity
If you’re a US citizen planning a trip to the United Kingdom in 2026, there’s one travel requirement you should check before booking your flight: the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
The ETA is a digital travel permission required by most US citizens visiting the UK for tourism, family visits and certain other short stays. It costs £20 per person, including children and babies, and must be approved before you travel.
The good news is that the application can be completed online or through the official UK ETA app. However, you should allow enough time for a decision rather than leaving it until the day of departure.
In this guide, you’ll find out who needs a UK ETA, how much it costs, how long approval takes, how long it remains valid and how to apply through the official service.
Last reviewed: October 26, 2026. Always check the latest requirements on GOV.UK before applying.
Do US Citizens Need a UK ETA in 2026?
Yes. Most US citizens travelling to the UK for a short visit need an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation before departure, unless an exemption applies to their circumstances.
The ETA requirement applies to eligible visitors travelling for purposes such as:
- Tourism and holidays
- Visiting friends or family
- Certain business activities
- Short-term study where permitted under the visitor rules
Since the UK introduced its ETA travel enforcement requirements in February 2026, eligible travellers must have the necessary permission before boarding their journey.
An ETA allows eligible visitors to travel to the UK for visits of up to six months at a time. It also covers travel to Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man under the relevant rules.
Keep in mind that an ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee admission. Border officials make the final decision when you arrive.
You should also check whether you qualify for an exemption. For example, British citizens generally do not need an ETA and should travel using a valid British passport or other accepted documentation.
How Much Does a UK ETA Cost for US Citizens?
The official UK ETA application fee is £20 per person.
Every traveller needs their own ETA, including infants and children. If a family of four is travelling together, the total application fee would be £80, assuming all four need an ETA and the fee remains unchanged.
You can apply through the official UK ETA app or the online application service.
Be careful when choosing where to apply. Some third-party websites charge additional service fees, and using another website does not get you a faster decision.
For the official application and current fee, visit the GOV.UK ETA application page.
How Long Does a UK ETA Take to Get Approved?
Most applicants receive a decision by email within one day. However, some applications need additional checks and can take up to three working days.
For that reason, it is sensible to apply well before your flight. Avoid waiting until the last minute, particularly if you are travelling with family or have connecting flights to consider.
Before submitting your application, make sure your passport details and personal information are accurate. You should also follow the official photo requirements carefully, as an unsuitable photograph may delay or affect your application.
Once approved, your ETA is linked electronically to the passport you used to apply.
Practical tip: Do not assume your application has been approved just because you have submitted it or paid the fee. Wait for the confirmation email before travelling.
You can find the official processing guidance on the GOV.UK ETA application page.
How Long Does a UK ETA Last?
An approved UK ETA is generally valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first.
During its validity period, you can make multiple eligible visits to the UK. Each visit can usually last up to six months, depending on the purpose of your trip and the applicable visitor rules.
For example, if your ETA is approved in November 2026 and your passport remains valid, the ETA will generally remain valid for two years. If your passport expires earlier, your ETA will expire with it.
There is one important detail to remember: if you renew your passport or receive a replacement passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA linked to that passport.
You can use the official GOV.UK ETA checker to check whether you have an ETA and when it expires.
How to Apply for a UK ETA from the USA
Applying for a UK ETA is straightforward when you have the necessary documents ready. Follow these steps before your trip.
Step 1: Open the Official Application Service
Visit GOV.UK’s ETA application page or use the official UK ETA app.
Avoid sponsored or unofficial websites that make their services look like the government application process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Passport and Photo
You will need the passport you intend to travel with, an email address and an accepted payment method.
The application also requires a photograph of the applicant’s face and passport information. Follow the instructions provided by the official service.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Enter your personal details, passport information and contact details carefully. Answer all application questions honestly and review your information before submitting it.
Even a small error in your passport details can create problems when your travel authorisation is checked.
Step 4: Pay the £20 Fee
Complete the payment through the official application service. Remember that the application fee is generally non-refundable, including when an application is refused.
Step 5: Wait for the Decision Email
After submitting your application, wait for an email confirming the outcome. The decision usually arrives within one day but can take up to three working days.
Do not travel on the assumption that payment alone means approval.
Do You Need a UK ETA for a Connecting Flight?
It depends on how you transit through the UK.
If you remain in the international transit area and do not pass through UK border control, an ETA may not be required under the applicable transit rules. However, if your journey requires you to pass through border control, you may need an ETA.
Your airline, airport arrangements and onward journey can affect what you need.
Before travelling, confirm your specific situation with your airline and check the official GOV.UK visa and ETA guidance.
Common Questions About the UK ETA for US Citizens
Does every child need a UK ETA?
Yes. Children and babies who are required to have an ETA must have their own approved authorisation. A parent’s ETA does not cover the rest of the family.
Can US citizens work in the UK with an ETA?
An ETA does not give you general permission to work in the UK. Some permitted visitor activities are allowed, but taking employment normally requires an appropriate visa or other permission.
Check the rules for your specific activity before travelling.
Does a UK ETA guarantee entry?
No. An ETA allows an eligible traveller to travel to the UK, but it does not guarantee entry. Border officials make the final decision on arrival.
What happens if my passport expires?
Your ETA expires when the passport it is linked to expires, even if two years have not passed. If you obtain a new passport, you will need a new ETA.
Can I apply for someone else?
Yes, you can apply for another person using the official service, provided you follow the application requirements. You will need the relevant passport and photograph information for that traveller.
What should I do if my ETA has not arrived?
Check your spam or junk email folder and review the official guidance. If you have not received a decision after three working days, GOV.UK advises contacting UK Visas and Immigration.
Do not assume that a pending application is an approved ETA.
Final Thoughts: Check Your UK ETA Before You Fly
For most US citizens visiting the UK in 2026, the ETA is an important part of preparing for an international trip. The application fee is £20 per person, approval usually arrives within a day, and an approved ETA generally lasts two years or until the linked passport expires.
The easiest way to avoid unnecessary travel problems is to apply through the official GOV.UK service, double-check your details and allow enough time for a decision.
Before departure, confirm that your ETA is approved and that your passport is the same one used for your application. If your circumstances are unusual, such as holding dual citizenship or connecting through a UK airport, check the official guidance for your situation.
Official resources
If you’re also planning to visit Europe, you may find our guides to ETIAS and Schengen visa application options useful when planning the rest of your trip.
