UK Visa from USA: Your Step-by-Step Online Application Guide
The UK is one of the must-visit countries, the iconic landscapes and the highlands of the UK offer you an unforgettable visit. Most visitors, including USA citizens, will need a UK visa. Applying for a UK visa from USA might seem challenging, but with the right information, the process can be hassle-free.
Whether you are planning a vacation, doing your business activities, or moving to work or study in the United Kingdom, you have to get an appropriate UK visa. You can effortlessly apply for a UK visa online. If you’re visiting the UK, getting a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is now compulsory. The visa process also involves selecting the appropriate visa that aligns with your UK travel plans. To submit a UK visa application easily, you should also know the application process and the UK visa requirements and eligibility criteria.
UK Visa for US Citizens
Before beginning your UK visa application process, you have to determine the type of UK visa you need. You should apply for the right UK visa that fits your travel intent. So, understanding the UK visa types is essential. The visa categories include Standard Visitor Visa, UK transit visa, Student Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, etc.
Each UK visa type has specific requirements, limitations and application processes. To apply for UK visa from USA, you can choose the UK ETA.
Details of UK ETA
With the visa, you can only take temporary visits to the UK. The UK ETA Visa is a UK visa category that permits you to stay in the UK for 180 days (or 6 months). With the UK Visitor Visa, you can travel to the United Kingdom for the below travel purposes.
- Vacation, adventure activities, sightseeing and cultural exploration.
- Attending business training, client visits, workshops and conferences.
- Signing up for your short-term academic courses.
- Visiting your friends and family members (in the UK and staying with them).
- Receive private medical treatments.
- Participating in academic visits and paid engagements.
To apply for UK visa from USA, you must meet its requirements. You cannot stay for a long time with a UK Visitor Visa. Applying for a UK visa from USA also requires a lot of attention to the documents required and additional details. Do not overlook the UK visa requirements, check them beforehand.
Gather the Required Documents
After checking the eligibility, you must look into the UK visa requirements, which include the documents you will need to apply for UK visa from USA. You must provide a few documents, which include the following list.
- Your valid Passport
- Your recent and colour passport-size photo (as per the specific standard).
- Your flight itinerary, accommodation details and travel date (for confirming your stay in the UK)
How to Submit a UK ETA from USA?
Knowing the UK visa application process beforehand helps you to submit an application successfully. To get a UK visa from USA, you should complete the ETA application form online.
Ensure that you have checked the UK visa requirements and gathered the necessary visa documents required and start the application process.
Step 1: Complete Your Visa Application Online
Visit the UK ETA portal and fill out your UK visa application form. Ensure that you are providing your accurate and correct details in the application form. Therefore, check them with your supporting documents. You must complete the application form thoroughly, ensuring that no entry fields are left blank.
Step 2: Pay the UK Visa Fee
Check the accuracy of your details before submitting them. Your next step is the fee payment. Use your card or other online payment modes and save your payment confirmation receipt (you might need it for later use).
Step 3: Receive ETA Approval
You have to wait until you get notified about your application decision via email. The process takes up to 72 hours however in most cases eTA is approved within 24 hours.
Validity of UK ETA for US Citizens
The UK ETA Visa is valid for 2 years with multiple entries. With the visa, you can stay for 180 days (which is 6 months). For each entry, you are allowed to stay up to 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my UK Standard Visitor Visa for transit, or do I need a UK transit visa?
The UK transit visa is a permit that authorizes you to transit through the United Kingdom. If you are holding a UK ETA Visa, then you can use it for transit purposes, you do not have to get a separate UK transit visa.
Do US passport holders require a UK visa for their short visits to the UK?
As a US citizen you are required to obtain a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before your trip. To get an eTA, you have to fulfil the requirements and complete an online application form.
Can I reapply for a UK Visa if my application is denied?
Reapplying for a UK Visa after a rejection is possible, but first, you have to address the initial visa application denial reason. Review the rejection reason, and before reapplying, make sure that you have addressed your rejection reason.
Do I need a separate UK visa for my child?
Your child needs a separate UK visa if they are accompanying you. When applying for your child, the passport details, consent letter (if required), birth certificate, and other supporting documents are mandatory to support the visa application.
READ MORE:
If you are planning on traveling to the United Kingdom from the United States or other eligible countries, then you need to be aware of an important new change in the immigration rules.Learn more at New UK ETA Requirements and Eligible Countries.