US citizens need UK travel authorization, State Department warns

US citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom face a new mandatory requirement: an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The US Department of State issued a warning emphasizing that a valid US passport alone is no longer sufficient for entry.

The ETA is now obligatory for most US citizens traveling for purposes such as tourism, family gatherings, business activities, or short courses, allowing for a maximum stay of six months. The requirement applies even if the passport is otherwise valid.

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US citizens traveling to the United Kingdom must obtain an ETA before their arrival.

The application process for the ETA costs 20 British pounds (approximately US$26.78) and is non-refundable. While authorities advise allowing up to three business days for processing, responses are often received via email within about a day. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the traveler's passport and remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. This allows for multiple entries into the UK within the six-month stay limit.

Travelers can apply for the ETA through the official UK ETA app or the designated UK government website. Both methods require the same basic applicant information. The app allows for direct scanning of documents and taking photos, while online applications are necessary when applying for someone not physically present. The US Department of State reiterated on its official website that this authorization is a prerequisite for arrival in the UK.

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The electronic authorization is mandatory for most US citizens traveling under the categories contemplated by the British government such as tourism, family reunions, business activities or short courses with a maximum stay of six months.