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UK Nationals travelling to USA
Travelling to the US for UK citizens is facilitated by the American visa-waiver program. British passport holders don't require a dedicated Visa ; instead, they can utilise an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). The ESTA allows eligible nationals to enter the US for tourism or business purposes, whether by air or sea.
Acquiring an ESTA is a straightforward process, especially when using the online services. This article provides all the necessary information, eliminating the need to search for visa requirements for UK citizens. By investing just a few minutes in reading this piece, you'll be well-prepared to complete our convenient online form. For further details on additional prerequisites and potential visas for UK citizens travelling to the US, continue reading below.
Meaning of an ESTA
An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a streamlined entry authorization for eligible foreign nationals, including UK citizens, visiting the US for short-term tourism or business purposes.
It serves as an alternative to a traditional US visa, allowing travellers to enter the US by air or sea without undergoing a full visa application process. Obtained through a simple online application, the ESTA facilitates efficient travel while ensuring compliance with US immigration regulations.
Obtain an ESTA online
To obtain an ESTA online, the UK to USA visa process is made simple and convenient. You'll need an applicant photo and a scanned copy of the passport's personal details section. The provided form is divided into three straightforward steps, taking no more than 10 minutes to complete. Should you require assistance, dedicated support operates 24/7, ensuring guidance for British citizens applying for an ESTA.
Here's the application process:
- Step 1: Fill out the online application form.
- Step 2: Provide all necessary details and upload additional documents if needed. Our visa experts are on hand to offer guidance, ensuring a smooth ESTA application process.
- Step 3: Once we have your information, passport details, contact information, and security data, we will process your ESTA application. Simply select the processing timeframe that suits your schedule and make the payment using your credit or debit card. Refer to the fees and processing options outlined below.
After completing these three steps, submit your application and await its arrival in your email inbox within your chosen timeframe. For those in a hurry, you can even have your ESTA ready in as little as 2 hours, making it an ideal solution for urgent travel needs.
Amount needed by UK citizens to acquire a USA Visa
When obtaining your ESTA online, the cost of your Electronic System for Travel Authorization will be determined by your chosen processing time and available budget. While the ESTA incurs a fee, it's more affordable than you might expect, and our services streamline the process. Explore the options below.
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ESTA - 2 Years, multiple entry
- Standard Processing: Ready in 24 hours, priced at USD $71.99 - The most economical choice, ideal for those planning ahead.
- Rush Processing: Quicker at 12 hours, priced at USD $121.99.
- Super Rush Processing: Available in 4 hours for USD $182.99 - The fastest option for urgent ESTA acquisition.
The ESTA entails a Government fee of USD $21.00, and all processing fees encompass both Government and online service charges.
Recovering an ESTA for UK Nationals
Retrieving your ESTA as a UK citizen is a straightforward process. Our 3-step application form simplifies travel to the US. Once you've submitted your application and it's approved, your ESTA will be sent to your email inbox. For your trip, make sure to print a physical copyof the document and also store an electronic version on your device. Present the form to the immigration authorities upon arrival.
In the case of applications through our website, you can easily access your online account, which is automatically generated after applying for your ESTA online. To access your account, sign in and establish a password.
WHY IS ADVANCE APPLICATION ADVISABLE?
When you're planning your trip well in advance, opting for early application holds several benefits. It frees you from the need to constantly monitor the optimal timing for submission, granting you the luxury of dedicating your time to planning the journey itself, rather than last-minute concerns. Moreover, keep in mind that as a British (UK) citizen, you won't require a US Visa; an ESTA suffices for entry.
Requirements and Rules concerning COVID-19
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Vaccination
For non-citizen air travellers aged 18 and above journeying to the United States, a COVID vaccination certificate is now mandatory. Accepted vaccines are those approved by the WHO. The final dose must have been administered at least 14 days prior to travel.
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Testing
As of now, there are no COVID testing prerequisites for entry into the USA.
Please note that these regulations are subject to change. To stay informed about the latest COVID requirements for entry into the USA, refer to the FAQS page.
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Quarantine
While most travellers, including those holding a British passport, are not required to quarantine upon entering the US, this can differ depending on the state. We also recommend considering a self-isolation period of 7 to 10 days upon arrival.
Lastly, remember that obtaining a US ESTA is essential prior to your travel.
Is the online platform secure?
Rest assured, our website is not only user-friendly but also highly secure. Your information's confidentiality is our priority, so there's no need to be concerned about any data leaks. Your private details are treated with utmost care. If you seek validation of our exceptional track record in furnishing travel documents, feel free to explore our customer reviews section for added assurance.
Customer Service Team
Are you uncertain about whether British citizens require a visa for the USA? If you still have inquiries concerning this matter, don't hesitate to contact our customer service team.
Recommendations of the online platform
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Can UK Citizens Travel to the US?
Absolutely, UK citizens can travel to the US using the ESTA. This electronic document enables eligible nationals to visit the USA for tourism or business purposes without necessitating a US visa. Further information about visa requirements for UK citizens is provided below.
Acquiring an ESTA involves a quicker and more streamlined process compared to traditional methods, without the need for an embassy interview. Therefore, it is strongly recommended when applicable.
- Travel Purposes and US Entry Requirements
You might be curious about the permissible activities when travelling to the US under the ESTA as a UK citizen.
The ESTA's requirements are met by the following travel purposes:
- Tourism (for vacation in the USA)
- Visiting friends or family residing there
- Engaging in business-related activities such as visiting clients, suppliers, attending meetings, negotiations, or conferences
- Seeking medical treatment
- The following travel purposes do not align with ESTA requirements
- Engaging in employment with a US employer
- Pursuing education in the United States
- Investing in or establishing a company
- Engaging in journalism-related activities
Utilising an ESTA for work in the US is permissible, under the condition that the traveller is not directly employed by a US company and is working for a foreign entity. Payment for work conducted in the US is acceptable, as long as the payer is located outside the US. This arrangement qualifies as a business trip and adheres to ESTA criteria. An illustrative example is someone working remotely during their trip or participating in a business journey facilitated by a UK employer.
- Understanding the ESTA and Required Documents for US Visit
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an electronic platform designed to determine eligibility for travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program enables travellers to visit the US without acquiring a visa. The ESTA is issued for Multiple Entries, allowing a 90-day stay per entry, and remains valid for two years.
- To apply for the ESTA online, you'll need the following:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from the US.
- An active email address.
- Debit/credit card for payment processing.