# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Visas

How to Get a Visa to Visit England

The United Kingdom allows U.S. citizens with a valid passport to visit the country for up to six months without a visa. But that only applies if you're traveling just as a tourist. If your visit is for work, education or to join family members--no matter the length of your visit--you will need a visa. But because the system is mostly online the process is very easy. As you fill out the form it determines what type of visa you'll need and emails you a list of supporting documentation you'll need to submit.

Internet access
Telephone
Passport

Instructions

- 1
  Determine whether you need to get a visa for your visit to England by taking the online test.
- 2
  Log onto the "Visa4UK" website. The United Kingdom requires all Americans to fill out their visa application online.
- 3
  Gather your supporting documents. Once you've filled out the online form you will get a confirmation email that also includes a list of supporting documents you will need to submit. All applications will at least require a valid passport, an additional passport-size photo and the visa fees. But most visa applications will require more information.
- 4
  Make an appointment for a biometric fingerscan. The confirmation email will include contact information for this to be done at one of 129 visa application support centers in the U.S.