US Visa for British Citizens: ESTA, H-1B & Green Card
ESTA, work visas, student visas — everything British citizens need to know about entering the USA.
USA visa for British citizens 2026
The UK is part of the Visa Waiver Program: British citizens enter the US for 90 days with an ESTA ($21). For work, study or permanent residence: H-1B (skilled work), E-2 (UK-US investment treaty), L-1, O-1, F-1, EB-5 ($800K+), DV Lottery (55,000 Green Cards/year).
Direct London–NYC: ~7h30 (BA, Virgin). NHS does NOT cover the USA.
ESTA for British Citizens
UK citizens can visit the USA for up to 90 days via the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov ($21, 72h processing, valid 2 years).
ESTA Requirements
- Valid UK biometric passport
- Return or onward ticket
- No previous visa denials or overstays
- No travel to Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen or North Korea after 2011
Beyond 90 Days
For longer stays: B-1/B-2 visa (tourism/business, 6 months), F-1 student visa, H-1B/L-1/O-1 work visas, E-2 investor visa. The UK-US special relationship means relatively smooth processing for most visa categories.
Not for stays up to 90 days — ESTA is sufficient. For work, study or permanent residence, a visa is required.
Yes. The UK has an E-2 treaty with the US, making it a good option for British investors/entrepreneurs.