Many UK citizens visit the USA for a variety of reasons. The USA offers many tourist attractions, academic or business opportunities, and more. Many British citizens travel using valid e-passports or other machine-readable cards.
This is an issue that leaves many people with one key question. Do UK citizens need a visa for USA? The most straightforward answer is that citizens of the United Kingdom are privileged regarding travelling to the USA.
The UK is part of the list of nations where the USA allows visa use. In addition, the US utilizes the visa waiver system, which allows visitors to apply online for travel authorization. Therefore, UK citizens can enter and visit different parts of the USA by air, sea, or land.
Key Things to Know Before Using a Visa for the USA
The same way that there are things that visitors should know when traveling to the UK, there is a lot for UK citizens to know before going to the USA. A UK citizen doesn’t have to worry about applying for a visa to the USA. You’re not required to apply for the visa since the United Kingdom is one of the reputable 40 countries enjoying the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
This program makes it easy to enter the USA with a visa and stay while exploring the country’s beauty for up to 90 days. But how do you make this a reality? First, travelers need to apply for travel authorization and pursue the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) program.
Further, there is a criterion UK citizens have to follow to enjoy their three-month stay in the United States. The USA has a good relationship with the United Kingdom, so you don’t need to apply for a visa. Well, the document you’ll need to carry with you is the stamp on the UK passport that attests that you are eligible for the VWP.
Because you already know that enrolling in the ESTA program is integral, don’t just stop there. Here are other facets that will help your pursuit to travel to the USA a dream come true:
- Enroll in the ESTA program via a safe and secure database. The website is run by the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), so you don’t have to worry about disclosing personal information.
- Important items you submit will include a valid visa from the UK, email address, phone number or home address.
- What makes you eligible for the VWP program? A key requirement is you MUST be a citizen of the UK. You’re staying in the USA for 90 or less. In addition, you’ll need an e-passport to sign up for the VWP program.
- State your reasons for visiting the USA. Activities to undertake through VWP vary from attending social events, medical treatment, vacations or visiting relatives or friends. You may also be in the country for an educational conference, short-term training or consulting with business partners.
To Sum Up
If you’re wondering whether UK nationals can apply for an ESTA visa waiver, stress no more. Yes, UK citizens are privileged to be a part of 40 countries enjoying the Visa Waiver Program. The scheme will help travel to the USA for 90 days. Therefore, don’t shy away from applying for an ESTA, but confirm you’re eligible. Most importantly, feel free to consult experts in the field if you need help figuring out where to start.
