United Kingdom

Entry, exit, and visa requirements

Helpful resources

• British Embassy in the United States
• Registered Traveler Service (RTS)
• UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
• eVisa in the UK
• UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
• Review our information on Dual Nationality
• Review our information on U.S. Travelers in Europe 
• Review our information on Laws Abroad

Passport requirements

• Your passport must be valid for the entire length of your stay in the United Kingdom.
• Since June 2019, U.S. passport holders can use ePassport Gates when arriving in the UK. If you previously registered for the UK Registered Traveler Service (RTS), you should now use the ePassport Gates.

Onward travel to more countries

• Many countries require the passport to be valid for 6 months or more during travel. Review those destination pages if you continue your travel after leaving the UK.
• Learn more about U.S. travelers in Europe.

Visa requirements

• All U.S. citizens traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel.
• As of spring 2026, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has replaced physical documents with a new online record of immigration status called an eVisa.      

Dual citizens

• All dual citizens are required to enter the United Kingdom on a valid UK passport and cannot obtain an ETA on a foreign passport. 
• You can find more information from the UK government website. 

Review the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) information, including

• Visa requirements for your type of travel, including research, work, study, or medical treatment. 
• Information for unpaid and paid workers, including interns, volunteers, charity, religious, and temporary workers.
• Visitor information if you plan to get married in the UK, even if you don’t plan to live there.
• Extra fees for certain visa categories related to work, study, or residency for more than 6 months. 
• We cannot help with your UK visa application. If denied entry, we cannot press for your admission into the UK. 

Traveling with children

• Always bring a copy of each child’s birth certificate or other evidence of your legal relationship to each child.
• When 1 parent is traveling with a child, a notarized consent letter is recommended from the absent parent. Otherwise, proof of sole custody is recommended.
• If you have concerns that your child may be abducted abroad by their other parent or guardian, review our information on how to prevent an international parental child abduction. You can also review our information on Parental Child Abduction in the UK.
• Review our information on Traveling with Minors. 

HIV and AIDS restrictions

• The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the UK. 

Currency

• The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the official currency of the UK.
• U.S. issued credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in the UK.
• The UK has ATMs that accept U.S.-issued bankcards. 

Traveling through Europe

• If you are planning to visit or travel through Europe, be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Borders Agreement. It allows you to move freely within several countries without border checks.
• Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.
• Review our information for U.S. Travelers in Europe.

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.   

• United Kingdom: Dial 999 for all emergencies. Learn more about how policing works in the UK.  
• Gibraltar: Dial 112

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Local Safety guidance

The UK Security Service updates the public on any changes in the threat level and actions for the public.

• There is a risk of isolated violence in Northern Ireland due to political tensions.
• The Police Service of Northern Ireland warns of continued threats from protester groups. These groups target police and military with firearms or explosives. 
• Tensions may be higher during the summer “marching” season from April to August, and on the July 12th holiday.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent or resulted in property damage.
• They may occur outside the U.S. Embassy in London and at the U.S. Consulates in Belfast and Edinburgh.  
• They may occur near tourist areas in London like Hyde Park, Oxford Street, and Trafalgar Square. 

Demonstration organizers must get police approval in advance. UK police are good at managing these events.   

To stay safe:

• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Use caution near any large gatherings, protests, or rallies.  
• Check local media updates and traffic advisories.  
• Check Transport for London and the Metropolitan Police, including their social media accounts for updates.  

Crime 

Violent crimes or crimes against property are rare. U.S. citizens should take the same security precautions as in the United States or any big city.

• Be aware of your surroundings. 
• Be aware of pickpocketing, mugging, and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches, and jewelry. 
• Don’t leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, or parked cars. 
• Only use licensed black taxis or pre-ordered car services (minicabs). Unlicensed taxis or private cars can be dangerous and may lead to robbery or sexual assault. 
• Avoid ATMs that look temporary or are in isolated areas. Use ATMs inside a bank branch for safety. 

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Scams are common in the UK. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad and needing money to be discharged or released
• People claiming that they are transporting large sums of gold or cash from an inheritance or other windfall
• People claiming that they are required to pay money to be allowed to leave the UK
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999 in the United Kingdom and dialing 112 in Gibraltar.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Victim support resources in the UK

• Victim Support  - maintained by an independent UK charity to help victims cope with the effects of crime. 
• Victim Support NI - maintained by a Northern Ireland charity. 
• Victim Support Scotland - maintained by a charity in Scotland. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the UK’s Domestic Abuse Help.  
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in the UK, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Illegal weapons

The UK has very strict gun control laws. Importing firearms is challenging.

• The London Metropolitan Police Firearms provides information about applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate.
• The UK government provides a full list of what is prohibited when traveling to the UK. 

You will be arrested if you bring the following into the UK:

• Pocket knives
• Blades
• Mace
• Tasers
• Pepper spray canisters 
• Gun or gun parts 

Licenses issued in England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland. Police in Scotland provide information on certificates.

Always start packing with an empty bag. This avoids bringing into the UK any prohibited items in your luggage.

The UK and British Overseas Territories have different restrictions for bullets and ammunition. Please check the restrictions for your destination before traveling.

Alcohol

• The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. Parents and school trip organizers should review the students abroad information. 
• Scotland has stricter “drunk driving limit” laws compared to the rest of the UK. In Scotland, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is roughly 0.05, while it is 0.08 in the rest of the UK. This means driving after one drink can result in a DUI.
• Authorities strictly enforce penalties for being drunk on flights to and from the UK. They can lead to arrest and prison time. 
• Learn more about U.S. Customs rules before returning to the United States. 

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in the UK.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs 

The law in the UK prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

• In the UK, all public service providers must make “reasonable adjustments” for people with disabilities. This excludes transportation services.
• The law allows different rules for older buildings. For instance, they can have steps from the street instead of ramps.
• Getting around cities can be hard because sidewalks are often narrow, uneven, or cobbled. 
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not accessible for people with disabilities. Many stations do not have working elevators and have stairways or long hallways to change trains or exit to the street.
• UK buses have lowering platforms for travelers. This helps travelers with limited mobility and sight, or hearing disabilities. 
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or ramps to get in easier. 
• "Blue badges" are parking permits for the disabled issued by local UK councils. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students 

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health Resources 

• CDC's United Kingdom Traveler Health Information 
• CDCC's Medical Tourism information 
• Travel Insurance 
• WHO's United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Health Information 
• U.S. Embassy London list of hospitals and doctors in the United Kingdom

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 999 for all emergencies 
• Dial 112 for all emergencies in Gibraltar 

Ambulance services 

• Dial 999 for ambulance services 
• Ambulance services are widely available in the United Kingdom

Healthcare in the United Kingdom 

Medical care in the UK is widely available. In smaller cities, it may take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. 

• Free treatment under the National Health System (NHS) is only available to UK residents, EU nationals, and some visa holders. 
• Some visa applicants must pay an extra NHS fee when applying.  
• Tourists and short-term visitors don’t pay the extra fee but will be charged 150% of the cost for any NHS treatment they receive. 
• Private medical care exists, primarily in larger cities. Often, private medical clinics do not have Emergency Departments (A&E) services. 

Medical payments and insurance

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• The UK Government encourages tourists to make sure they are covered by personal health or travel insurance.  More information on NHS fees for tourists and short-term visitors is available on the UK Government website.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work overseas.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance available.
• We recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical needs and possible evacuation.

Prescription drugs 

• Confirm that your medication is legal according to the UK government.
• Some U.S. approved drugs are considered controlled substances in the UK and require additional license to buy or bring into the country. 
• Bring enough medicine to last your entire trip. Mailed prescriptions may be delayed or blocked by British customs. 
• Take your prescription medication in the original labeled packaging.  
• Bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations 

Stay up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Further health information:  

• World Health Organization Travel Advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Transportation

Helpful resources 

• Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad
• UK government - The Highway Code, Road Safety and Vehicle Rules 
• Transport for London - Driving in London 
• UK government - UK Department of Transport 
• UK government - Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency

Road conditions and safety 

UK traffic drives on the left side of the road, which is different from the United States: 

• Read the Highway Code from the UK government before driving. 
• Visit the UK Government website to find out if your driver’s license is valid in the UK 
• Emergency call boxes are orange and have “SOS” printed on them. They are found every half mile on motorways. 
• Pedestrians in the UK don’t have the right of way. Do not expect vehicles to stop for you. 
• Many U.S. pedestrians get injured or killed in the UK because they forget that traffic comes from the opposite direction on the street. 
• Wait for crossing signs at crosswalks. Look both ways before stepping into the street. 

For more information visit: 

• THINK! road safety campaign  
• Highways England Press Release 
• UK Driving Rules and Penalties 
• Driving in the UK

Traffic laws 

• The UK Department of Transport and Driver Vehicle Standards Agency provide information on driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance.  
• The UK has strict penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties often include prison sentences. 
• Seat belts and child car seats are required by law.   
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Only hands-free devices are allowed. You could be fined or even arrested if involved in an accident while using a cell phone. 
• The speed limit on highways (motorways) is 70 mph, unless a lower limit is posted. 
• If you commit a driving offense and don’t have a UK address, you may be detained and taken to court before leaving the country.   
• In Central London, there is a congestion charge for driving in certain areas. You will be fined or arrested if you don’t pay it. Learn more from Transport London.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Licensed black cabs, or traditional London taxis, and minicabs are well-regulated. They are safe and can be identified by their official licensing.
• For added security, use only licensed taxis from designated taxi ranks or book through reputable ride-share apps, which are widely available in major cities.
• Avoid unlicensed minicabs or accepting rides from unmarked vehicles, particularly late at night.
• Always verify that the driver and vehicle match the details provided in your ride-share app before entering. 

Public and commercial transportation 

Public transportation in the UK is widespread and easily accessible. The following resources provide public transportation information and schedules: 

• Transport London – for driving disruptions for the city of London
• National Rail Enquiries
• Translink – for Northern Ireland bus and train information 
• Traveline Scotland – for bus and train information 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. 
• FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to United Kingdom should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons
• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport
• UK Sailing Guidance

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

The UK has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild, damp conditions throughout the year. 

• Winters are generally cool, with temperatures ranging from 2-7°C (36-45°F), while summers remain moderate and comfortable at 15-25°C (59-77°F).
• Rain is frequent throughout the year. 
• The weather changes rapidly—sometimes within the same day.
• The UK faces few severe natural disasters. However, winter flooding, occasional storms, and summer heatwaves do occur.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates