Visa Application for United Kingdom citizens in the United States — 2026

Applying for a United Kingdom visa from the United States is done at the consulate or embassy covering your state of residence. The United Kingdom consular network in the U.S. processes tourist, business, student, family and transit visas for travelers and United Kingdom expats.

United Kingdom consulates processing visa applications

Who needs a United Kingdom visa?

U.S. citizens may or may not need a visa for United Kingdom depending on the visa policy. Citizens of third countries residing in the U.S. typically need a visa.

Visa types include: tourist (short stay), business, student, work, family reunification, transit, diplomatic.

Required documents

• Valid passport (typically 6 months remaining validity)
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport photos
• Flight reservations and accommodation proof
• Travel insurance (often required)
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Visa fee

How to apply

United Kingdom uses the gov.uk con online booking for visa applications.

Biometric data (fingerprints, photo) may be collected at the appointment.

Costs and processing times

Visa fees vary widely: from $30 for short-term visas to $200+ for long-term or business visas. Processing times range from 5 business days (express) to 8 weeks (regular).