UK FCDO travel advice: Exercise normal precautions when travelling to United States. Some areas may have increased risk — check conditions for the specific regions you plan to visit.
Discover
Top Attractions in United States
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
Grand Canyon
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon plunges over a mile deep and stretches 446 km across northern Arizona. Few landscapes on Earth match its scale.
New York City
The city that never sleeps — Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, world-class museums, and an unmatched dining and arts scene across five boroughs.
Yellowstone National Park
America's first national park features geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears across a volcanic landscape.
Las Vegas Strip
The ultimate entertainment destination: iconic casinos, Cirque du Soleil shows, celebrity chef restaurants, and spectacular free street spectacles on the famous Strip.
Yosemite National Park
Towering granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, waterfalls, and verdant valleys make this Sierra Nevada park one of the most photographed places in the world.
Smithsonian Museums, Washington D.C.
19 free world-class museums and galleries on the National Mall, covering everything from American history and space exploration to natural history and fine art.
Where to Go
Top Cities to Visit in United States
New York City
The world's most iconic city — culture, food, and energy
Los Angeles
Hollywood, beaches, and infinite sunshine
Las Vegas
Non-stop entertainment in the Nevada desert
San Francisco
The Golden Gate, tech culture, and legendary seafood
New Orleans
Jazz, Creole cuisine, and one of America's most unique cultures
Chicago
Architecture, deep-dish pizza, and the blues
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting United States
Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can visit the US for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa, but must first obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). All other nationalities must apply for a US visitor visa (B-1/B-2) at a US embassy or consulate.
VWP travellers with an ESTA may stay for up to 90 days per visit. This period is non-extendable. If you hold a B-2 tourist visa, the length of stay is determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry, typically up to 6 months.
A valid passport, valid ESTA approval or US visa, a completed Customs Declaration Form (CBP Form 6059B), and evidence of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket. Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) is collected at the port of entry.
The US is a popular and generally safe destination. However, safety varies significantly by city and neighbourhood. Exercise normal caution in all areas, be aware of local conditions, and take standard precautions against petty theft.
The US Dollar (USD, symbol $). ATMs are ubiquitous across the country. Credit cards are accepted almost universally, and contactless payments via Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common.
English is the de facto national language. Spanish is widely spoken in many regions, particularly in the southwest, Florida, and major cities. No language is constitutionally designated as official at the federal level.
The US is so vast that the best time depends on your destination. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather in most regions. Summer (June–August) is peak season for national parks and coastal areas. Winter is ideal for ski resorts.
Visit the Grand Canyon, explore New York City's neighbourhoods, drive Pacific Coast Highway, hike in Yellowstone, experience New Orleans jazz and food, tour national parks in Utah, see the Smithsonian museums in Washington D.C., and catch a major league baseball or football game.
The busiest international gateways are John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York, Los Angeles International (LAX), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Miami International (MIA), and San Francisco International (SFO).
Travel insurance is very strongly recommended for the US. Healthcare costs are extremely high — a single hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars. The US has no universal public healthcare for foreign visitors.
No vaccinations are required for tourist entry. Routine vaccinations — MMR, influenza, COVID-19 — are recommended but not mandatory for travellers.
Yes, you can drive in the US with a valid foreign driver's licence for the duration of your authorised visit. An International Driving Permit is also accepted. Drive on the right side of the road.
You may bring in up to $800 worth of goods duty-free. Declare cash or monetary instruments over $10,000. Certain food items, plants, and agricultural products are prohibited. Firearms and narcotics are strictly regulated.
Tipping is a fundamental part of the US service economy. Tip 15–20% at restaurants, bars, and for taxi/rideshare services. Tips are not optional in most dining situations as server wages are subsidised by tips. Bellhops, hotel housekeeping, and tour guides also expect tips.
Yes, tap water in the US is treated and generally safe to drink. In some older buildings, lead pipes can occasionally be a concern. Bottled water is widely available.
Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins plus a round grounding pin) at 120V / 60Hz. If your devices are rated for 220–240V (common in Europe and Australia), you will need both an adapter and a voltage converter.
911 is the universal emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance throughout the United States.
The United States is generally rated at a standard precautionary level by most governments. Some areas may have specific alerts related to natural disasters (hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires). Always check your government's current travel advisory for any updated guidance.