United Kingdom visa and entry requirements for US, UK, Canadian, Australian, NZ and Irish citizens

US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and Irish citizens do not need a visa for short visits to the United Kingdom. You can stay up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family, or short study. From 2025, most visitors from these countries need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they travel. Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement. Always check the official UK government guidance before booking, as rules can change.

The table below summarises the entry requirements for the main English‑speaking visitor groups. All information is a 2026 estimate and should be confirmed on the official UK government website before you travel.

The ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa. You apply online, pay a fee (about £10 per person, 2026 estimate), and receive approval by email. The ETA is linked to your passport and allows multiple entries for up to 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Apply well before your trip; approval can take a few days. You do not need an ETA if you are an Irish citizen, or if you already hold a valid UK visa. The ETA is separate from any visa you might need for longer stays, work, or study.

For most visitors, your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay in the UK. There is no general 6‑month validity rule for US, Canadian, Australian, NZ or Irish citizens, but check the specific guidance for your country. If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before you travel to avoid problems at the border.

You may be asked to show proof of your return or onward travel, accommodation, and enough money for your stay. Have these ready. The UK uses eGates at many airports for eligible nationalities, which can speed up entry. If you are refused entry, you will be told why and given information on your rights.

If you plan to stay longer than 6 months, work, or study for more than a short course, you need a visa. Apply through the official UK government visa service. Do not overstay your visitor permission; it can affect future applications.