Do I Need an ESTA or a Visa?
Most US visas for UK citizens start with determining eligibility.
ESTA (Visa Waiver)
For British Citizens staying under 90 days.
- Valid for 2 years
- Fast Online Approval
B1/B2 Visitor Visa
For UK Residents (Indian, Pakistani, etc.) or long stays.
- Valid for 10 years
- Interview Required
Warning: Who is NOT Eligible for ESTA?
Even if you are a British Citizen, you cannot apply for an esta tourist visa usa if:
- You have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syra, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011.
- You have traveled to Cuba on or after January 12, 2021.
- You have a criminal record (even if spent).
In these cases, you MUST apply for a full B1/B2 united states tourist visa. Applying for an ESTA will lead to a permanent rejection.
Types of US Visitor Visas Explained
| Visa Type | Best For... | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| B1 Visa | Business | Conferences, contract negotiations, settling estates.
NO PAID WORK. |
| B2 Visa | Tourism & Medical | Holiday, visiting friends/family, medical treatment, social events. |
| B1/B2 Visa | Both (Most Common) | The standard us tourist visa from uk that covers both business and leisure. Valid for 10 years. |
01. Requirements for America Tourist Visa
Whether you are applying for a visit visa to USA from UK or a US vacation visa, strict documentation is key.
DS-160 Form
The core visa us tourist application form. Must be error-free.
Interview
Mandatory appointment at the US Embassy in London or Belfast.
Funds
Proof you can afford your american tourist visa trip (Bank statements).
Photo Requirements (Strict!)
Your us tourist visa from uk photo must be taken within the last 6 months.
- Plain White Background
- No Glasses Allowed
- Neutral Expression
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
02. Step-by-Step: Applying for a US Visa from UK
Complete the DS-160 Form
The DS-160 is the foundation of your united states tourist visa application. Every uk tourist visa for usa applicant (including children) must have their own DS-160.
Critical Tip: Be consistent! If you say you are visiting for "2 weeks" here, do not say "2 months" in your interview. Inconsistencies are the #1 reason us visas for uk citizens are denied.
Pay the Fee & Book Interview
The fee for a us tourist visa from uk is currently $185 USD. Once paid, you can schedule your appointment at the US Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast.
Wait Times: Slots for a visit visa to usa from uk can be scarce. We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance of your us vacation visa dates.
The Embassy Interview
This is the most stressful part of getting a visa for us for uk citizens. You must prove you have "strong ties" to the UK and will return after your trip.
- Be Honest: Never lie about past arrests or refusals.
- Bring Evidence: Bank statements, employment letters, and property deeds proving why you must return to the UK after your america tourist visa trip.
- Dress Provisionally: Treat it like a job interview.
03. Common Questions (FAQ)
How long does the US Visa take?
For an ESTA, it takes 72 hours. For a B1/B2 Visa, it depends on interview slots in London. After the interview, your passport is usually returned with the visa in 3-5 working days.
Can I work in the USA on a Visitor Visa?
No. You cannot do paid work. You can attend meetings or conferences, but you cannot be employed by a US company.
What if my visa is denied?
The $185 fee is non-refundable. This is why it's critical to ensure your DS-160 and "ties to UK" evidence are perfect before applying.
Get Your American Visa Approved.
Don't let a "Refused" stamp ruin your dream holiday. My team specializes in UK tourist visa from us applications for complex cases.
Expert support for B1/B2 and ESTA denials.