COUNTRY GUIDE

United States country guide: visas, airlines and living abroad

A comprehensive guide to United States: country facts, currency, languages, airlines, visa preparation, immigration, expatriate planning and official sources.

VisaWand EditorialPublished 10 October 20267,800 words · 36 min read

Image credit

Source photograph · Sarah Meyer · Imported from 500px ( archived version ) by the Archive Team . ( detail page ) · CC BY 3.0. Resized; display framing and overlay vary by screen size.

United States at a glance

Country code: US
Capital / administrative centre: Washington D.C.
Region: North America
Languages: English
Currency: United States dollar (USD)
Country-code TLD: .us
Calling code: +1 (shared numbering plan; area code required)
Area (metadata): 9,372,610 km²

Location map of United States highlighted on a world map

Original VisaWand location map using public-domain Natural Earth data. Boundaries are illustrative; small territories are indicated by a location marker.

Understanding United States

United States requires a travel and relocation plan that reflects its geography, administrative arrangements and the traveller’s own circumstances. This guide brings together basic country information, aviation context, entry planning, longer-term residence considerations and practical preparation. A visitor, an international student, an employee and a person joining family may face different procedures even when they hold the same passport.

The country profile places United States in North America. The listed capital or administrative centre is Washington D.C.; the language metadata lists English. Currency information is presented as United States dollar (USD), and the internet-domain information is .us. These details are useful when checking application addresses, interpreting invoices, identifying local services and arranging communication. A country-code domain identifies an internet namespace; it does not, by itself, authenticate an immigration service or establish an applicant’s eligibility.

Use the guide in two stages. First, understand the destination and prepare a realistic itinerary or relocation objective. Then confirm the applicable requirements with the authority responsible for your nationality, passport type, place of legal residence and purpose of travel. The country-specific official extracts below retain their source dates and scope. They must not be read as a universal visa decision for all passports, and an airline ticket or a consultation booking does not confer permission to enter.

Demographic, geographic and transport material attributed to the CIA World Factbook comes from its final archived edition. Figures retain their original reference years and are historical background rather than a claim that every statistic is current. Government travel-advice extracts are reproduced with attribution under the Open Government Licence. The sections on preparation are practical editorial guidance; they do not invent a visa category, processing guarantee or entitlement to permanent residence. Check the linked original advice again before travel, as the published snapshot can change. Map boundaries are illustrative and do not express a position on sovereignty or disputed borders.

Country facts, geography and economic context

Historical country context, adapted from the public-domain CIA World Factbook final archive. Original dates are retained. These facts do not establish current entry or residence rights.

History and national context

Thirteen of Britain's American colonies broke with the mother country in 1776 and were recognized as the new nation of the United States of America following the Treaty of Paris in 1783. During the 19th and 20th centuries, 37 new states were added as the nation expanded across the North American continent and acquired a number of overseas possessions. Two of the most traumatic experiences in the nation's history were the Civil War (1861-65), in which a northern Union of states defeated a secessionist Confederacy of 11 southern slave states, and the Great Depression of the 1930s, an economic downturn during which about a quarter of the labor force lost its jobs. Buoyed by victories in World Wars I and II and the end of the Cold War in 1991, the US remains the world's most powerful nation state. Since the end of World War II, the economy has achieved relatively steady growth, low unemployment, and rapid advances in technology.

Geographic position

North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and Mexico

Land area

total : 9,833,517 sq km

land: 9,147,593 sq km

water: 685,924 sq km

note: includes only the 50 states and District of Columbia, no overseas territories

Landscape

vast central plain, mountains in west, hills and low mountains in east; rugged mountains and broad river valleys in Alaska; rugged, volcanic topography in Hawaii

Climate and seasonal planning

mostly temperate, but tropical in Hawaii and Florida, arctic in Alaska, semiarid in the great plains west of the Mississippi River, and arid in the Great Basin of the southwest; low winter temperatures in the northwest are ameliorated occasionally in January and February by warm chinook winds from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains

note: many consider Mount McKinley, the highest peak in the United States, to be the world’s coldest mountain because of its combination of high elevation and its subarctic location at 63 degrees north latitude; permanent snow and ice cover over 75 percent of the mountain, and enormous glaciers, up to 45 miles long and 3,700 feet thick, spider out from its base in every direction; it is home to some of the world’s coldest and most violent weather, where winds of over 150 miles per hour and temperatures of -93˚F have been recorded.

Natural hazards

tsunamis; volcanoes; earthquake activity around Pacific Basin; hurricanes along the Atlantic and Gulf of America coasts; tornadoes in the Midwest and Southeast; mud slides in California; forest fires in the west; flooding; permafrost in northern Alaska is a major impediment to development

volcanism: volcanic activity in the Hawaiian Islands, Western Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and in the Northern Mariana Islands; Mauna Loa (4,170 m) in Hawaii and Mount Rainier (4,392 m) in Washington have been deemed Decade Volcanoes by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to their explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Pavlof (2,519 m) is the most active volcano in Alaska's Aleutian Arc and poses a significant threat to intercontinental air travel; St. Helens (2,549 m), famous for the devastating 1980 eruption, remains active today; other historically active volcanoes are mostly concentrated in the Aleutian arc and Hawaii, including (in Alaska) Aniakchak, Augustine, Chiginagak, Fourpeaked, Iliamna, Katmai, Kupreanof, Martin, Novarupta, Redoubt, Spurr, Wrangell, Trident, Ugashik-Peulik, Ukinrek Maars, Veniaminof, (in Hawaii) Haleakala, Kilauea, Loihi, (in the Northern Mariana Islands) Anatahan, (in the Pacific Northwest) Mount Baker, and Mount Hood; see note 2 under "Geography - note"

Environmental conditions

air pollution; water pollution from runoff of pesticides and fertilizers; declining natural freshwater resources in the west; deforestation; mining; desertification; species conservation; invasive species

Geographic considerations

note 1: world's third-largest country by size (after Russia and Canada) and by population (after China and India); Mt. McKinley is the highest point (6,190 m; 20,308 ft) in North America, and Death Valley is the lowest point (-86 m; -282 ft)

note 2: the western US coast and the southern coast of Alaska lie along the Ring of Fire, which is a belt bordering the Pacific Ocean that contains about 75% of the world's volcanoes and up to 90% of the world's earthquakes

note 3: the Aleutian Islands are a chain of volcanic islands that divide the Bering Sea (north) from the main Pacific Ocean (south); they extend about 1,800 km (1,118 mi) westward from the Alaskan Peninsula; the archipelago consists of 14 larger islands, 55 smaller islands, and hundreds of islets; there are 41 active volcanoes on the islands, which together form a large northern section of the Ring of Fire

note 4: Mammoth Cave, in west-central Kentucky, is the world's longest known cave system with more than 650 km (405 miles) of surveyed passageways, which is nearly twice as long as the second-longest cave system, the Sac Actun underwater cave in Mexico (see "Geography - note" under Mexico)

note 5: Kazumura Cave on the island of Hawaii is the world's longest and deepest lava-tube cave; it has been surveyed at 66 km (41 mi) long and 1,102 m (3,614 ft) deep

note 6: Bracken Cave outside San Antonio, Texas is the world's largest bat cave and the summer home to the largest colony of bats in the world; an estimated 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats roost in the cave from March to October, making it the world's largest known concentration of mammals

Capital and administrative centre

name: Washington, D.C.

geographic coordinates: 38 53 N, 77 02 W

time difference: UTC-5 (during Standard Time)

daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note - no DST for Hawaii and most of Arizona

time zone note: the 50 United States cover six time zones

etymology: named after George WASHINGTON (1732-1799), the first president of the United States

Regional administration

50 states and 1 district*; Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia*, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

Settlement patterns

large urban clusters are spread throughout the eastern half of the US (particularly the Great Lakes area, northeast, east, and southeast) and the western-tier states; mountainous areas such as the Rocky Mountains and Appalachians, deserts in the southwest, the dense boreal forests in the extreme north, and the central prairie states are less densely populated; Alaska's population is concentrated along its southern coast, particularly around Anchorage, and Hawaii's is centered on the island of Oahu

Population snapshot

total: 341,963,408 (2024 est.)

male: 168,598,780

female: 173,364,628

Urban development

urban population: 83.3% of total population (2023)

rate of urbanization: 0.96% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)

Major urban areas

18.937 million New York-Newark, 12.534 million Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, 8.937 million Chicago, 6.707 million Houston, 6.574 million Dallas-Fort Worth, 5.490 million WASHINGTON, D.C. (capital) (2023)

Languages and communication

English only (official) 78.2%, Spanish 13.4%, Chinese 1.1%, other 7.3% (2017 est.)

note: data represent the language spoken at home; English is the official national language as of March 2025, but English previously had official status in 32 of the 50 states; Hawaiian is an official language in the state of Hawaii, and 20 indigenous languages are official in Alaska

Religion and cultural context

Protestant 46.5%, Roman Catholic 20.8%, Jewish 1.9%, Church of Jesus Christ 1.6%, other Christian 0.9%, Muslim 0.9%, Jehovah's Witness 0.8%, Buddhist 0.7%, Hindu 0.7%, other 1.8%, unaffiliated 22.8%, don't know/refused 0.6% (2014 est.)

Society and communities

White 61.6%, Black or African American 12.4%, Asian 6%, Indigenous and Alaska native 1.1%, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 0.2%, other 8.4%, two or more races 10.2% (2020 est.)

note: a separate listing for Hispanic is not included because the US Census Bureau considers Hispanic to mean persons of Spanish/Hispanic/Latino origin including those of Mexican, Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican Republic, Spanish, and Central or South American origin living in the US who may be of any race or ethnic group (White, Black, Asian, etc.); an estimated 18.7% of the total US population is Hispanic as of 2020

Economic context

world’s largest economy by nominal GDP; largest importer and second-largest exporter; home to leading financial exchanges and global reserve currency; high and growing public debt; inflation moderating but remains above pre-pandemic levels

Industry and employment context

highly diversified, world leading, high-technology innovator, second-largest industrial output in the world; petroleum, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace, telecommunications, chemicals, electronics, food processing, consumer goods, lumber, mining

Agriculture

maize, soybeans, milk, wheat, sugar beets, sugarcane, potatoes, chicken, pork, tomatoes (2023)

note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage

Trade and exports

crude petroleum, refined petroleum, natural gas, gas turbines, cars (2023)

note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars

Trade and imports

cars, crude petroleum, broadcasting equipment, computers, garments (2023)

note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars

Legal-system background

common law system based on English common law at the federal level; state legal systems based on common law, except Louisiana, where state law is based on Napoleonic civil code; judicial review of legislative acts

Names and terminology

conventional long form: United States of America

conventional short form: United States

abbreviation: US or USA

etymology: the name America was first used in 1507 and is derived from the first name of Amerigo VESPUCCI (1454-1512), an Italian explorer, navigator, and cartographer; the name United States first appeared in a document subtitle during the discussions that led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776

National holiday

Independence Day, 4 July (1776)

Internet identity

.us

Airport infrastructure

16,116 (2025)

Rail infrastructure

total: 293,564.2 km (2014)

standard gauge: 293,564.2 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge

Airlines and transport to United States

Air travel to United States should be planned around the actual operating airport, the operating carrier and the legal conditions at every connection. A marketed flight may be operated by another airline under a codeshare arrangement. Identify which carrier performs each sector, where checked luggage is transferred and whether a change of terminal or airport requires passing through immigration. A cheap connection is not necessarily usable if the traveller lacks the relevant transit or entry permission.

The airline information below uses IATA’s membership directory retrieved on 2026-10-10. Membership is a useful way to identify registered carriers and their airline codes, but it is not a complete census of airlines, a flight timetable or a statement that every carrier operates passenger services. Cargo airlines may also appear. Registration in United States does not mean an airline serves the traveller’s departure city, and foreign airlines may be the practical option for reaching the destination. Consult the carrier and airport directly for current routes and operating restrictions.

IATA-listed carriers registered in this destination

ABX Air — IATA designator GB
Alaska Airlines — IATA designator AS
American Airlines — IATA designator AA
Atlas Air — IATA designator 5Y
Delta Air Lines — IATA designator DL
Eastern Airlines — IATA designator 2D*
FedEx Express — IATA designator FX
Frontier Airlines — IATA designator F9
GlobalX — IATA designator G6
Hawaiian Airlines — IATA designator HA
JetBlue — IATA designator B6
National Airlines — IATA designator N8
Polar Air Cargo — IATA designator PO
Southwest Airlines — IATA designator WN
Sun Country Airlines — IATA designator SY
UPS Airlines — IATA designator 5X
United Airlines — IATA designator UA

Before paying for flights, check the spelling of the passenger name, passport validity, baggage entitlement, change conditions and refund rules. Compare a protected through-ticket with separate tickets: a missed connection on independently booked sectors may leave the traveller responsible for replacement transport and accommodation. Keep sufficient time for immigration, security screening and baggage collection, especially when arriving in United States after a long international connection.

For an island, remote settlement or seasonal route, review the consequences of cancellation as carefully as the outward journey. Weather, runway limitations and operating schedules may restrict alternatives. Keep essential medicines, identification, payment methods and a change of clothing in hand luggage. Carry the address of the first accommodation and a reliable arrival contact. Never assume that a visa exemption also removes an airline’s document checks, or that approval for the destination automatically covers a transit country.

How to plan a visa application for United States

Start with the intended activity rather than the name of a visa found on a commercial website. A short holiday, attendance at meetings, a paid assignment, an academic course and joining a spouse can require different permissions. Write a short factual description of the trip, its duration, who will pay and whether any work will be performed. The responsible authority can then assess the relevant category without relying on an ambiguous description such as “business travel”.

Next, establish which rules apply to the individual passport holder. Nationality, ordinary or diplomatic passport status, dual citizenship, existing residence permits and previous immigration history can affect the route. An entry exemption offered to one nationality should not be applied to another. Likewise, a resident of a neighbouring country may still need permission based on nationality. Where a guide quotes UK travel advice, its stated British-passport scope is retained; it is not a promise that another passport receives the same treatment in United States.

Identify the correct application channel through an official embassy, consulate, immigration department or government portal. Check whether the application must be made from the applicant’s country of nationality or legal residence, and whether a third-party centre is officially appointed. Search advertisements and a country-code website address are not adequate evidence of authorisation. Confirm the official fee, currency, payment method and process for obtaining a receipt before transferring money or uploading identity documents.

Build the evidence file around the published checklist for the selected category. Possible evidence can include a passport, photographs, a travel plan, accommodation details, financial records, an invitation or proof of a family relationship, but the required list must come from the authority. Names, dates and addresses should be consistent across forms and supporting documents. Explain genuine discrepancies honestly; do not alter a bank record, conceal a refusal or submit a reservation that is presented as paid when it is not.

If translations, certification or legalisation are required, establish the accepted language and format before commissioning them. A translation accepted by a university or employer may not satisfy the immigration authority. Keep the source document, translator’s certification and any required legalisation together. Ask whether a digital upload is sufficient or originals must be produced at an appointment. Where biometrics or an interview are requested, attendance arrangements and passport retention may affect other planned journeys.

Submit only after reviewing every answer and retain the application reference, payment receipt and a complete copy of the evidence. Monitor the official account or authorised communication channel for requests. Respond within the stated period and keep a record of what was supplied. Processing-time estimates are planning information rather than guarantees; do not invent a completion date for United States, and avoid non-refundable commitments until the documents and travel conditions are suitable.

When a decision is issued, examine the name, passport number, entry validity, permitted duration, number of entries and any activity restrictions. An approval letter may require a later step before boarding or after arrival. If an application is refused, read the reasons and the authority’s instructions for any review, appeal or new application. A different factual situation or corrected evidence should be explained clearly; repeatedly submitting an unchanged file is unlikely to resolve the underlying issue.

United States: official entry, safety and health information

Country-specific official material reproduced from UK FCDO travel advice under the Open Government Licence v3.0. © Crown copyright. The entry section is scoped to British passport holders as stated by the source; other nationalities must check their own requirements. Source last updated: 2026-08-18T10:29:04+01:00. Retrieved 2026-10-10. Read the current original advice.

Warnings and insurance

This travel advice also covers American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and United States Virgin Islands.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

see general advice for women travellers
read our guide on disability and travel abroad
see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
read about safety for solo and independent travel
see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Follow FCDO:   

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

You must have the correct approval prior to travel. This will be either a valid US visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), depending on your personal circumstances and purpose of travel.

US authorities enforce entry rules strictly. If you do not have the correct immigration status, or if you breach the terms of your entry, there is a risk you may be detained, refused entry, or removed (deported). Overstaying your permitted time in the US can also lead to detention and future bans on re-entry.

A valid ESTA or visa does not guarantee you will be allowed to enter the US. Authorities may refuse you entry if, for example, they believe you plan to stay longer than permitted or have provided inaccurate or incomplete information. The US may change the conditions to travel to the US at any time without prior notice.

If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK. See information from US Customs and Border Protection on entry for international visitors.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

British-US dual nationals

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) or a visa.

The US State Department has more information on visas.

Travellers whose sex on their passport differs from their sex recorded at birth should contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for further advice.

Applying for an ESTA

ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). You can apply for an ESTA via the Official ESTA Application Website or using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS.

All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers intending to enter the US by land, sea and air will be required to obtain an approved ESTA prior to application for admission at land border ports of entry. Individuals who are not eligible to travel under the VWP may apply for a visa at any U.S. Embassy & Consulates.

You may not be able to apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
a criminal record
been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the US
previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

Information on whether you are eligible for an ESTA visa waiver can be found in the help section of the official ESTA Application Website.

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011:

Iran
Iraq
Libya
North Korea
Somalia
Sudan
Syria
Yemen

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021.

If your ESTA does not contain the required selfie photograph now required by US Customs and Border Protection, you may need to apply for a new ESTA. You should check your ESTA account before travelling to ensure your authorisation remains valid.

An ESTA may not be sufficient for all types of business travel – particularly if you are travelling on behalf of a US company. Please check the rules on the ESTA website carefully.

If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you must instead apply for a US visa. Travelling on an ESTA when ineligible can lead to detention and deportation by the US authorities.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa. Please check the guidance carefully.

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments.

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

have a valid visa or ESTA on arrival
be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarised from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The FCDO cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US. If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide.

Ebola

As a public health measure, the United States has introduced temporary entry restrictions for travellers who were recently in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda or South Sudan.  See Information for travellers returning from Ebola-affected areas. Consult your airline before travelling.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Electronic devices

Officials may ask to inspect your electronic devices, emails, text messages, and social media activity. If you refuse, they can delay or deny your entry. US Customs and Border Protection has more information on electronic device searches.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry

The US Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveller Program (TTP) Global Entry allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers expedited clearance at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can register to get a UK background check. If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry for UK Citizens. Check eligibility carefully.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in the USA

Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in the US.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by tourists and foreign nationals such as:

crowded places and mass gatherings
transportation networks
sporting and cultural events
places of worship and religious sites
hospitals and clinics, schools and universities

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. The US Department of Homeland Security provides alerts within the US and its territories. If there is a life threatening emergency, call 911. US authorities regularly report that they have disrupted planned attacks and made arrests. Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement authorities.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Do not leave passports in rental cars, especially not in the boot. Gangs may target vehicles driven by people who look like tourists.

Violent crime

Violent crime and gun crime rarely affect tourists, but take care in unfamiliar areas. Try not to walk through quieter areas alone, especially at night. You can find public advisories and information about recent incidents on local law enforcement websites.

Mass shooting incidents can happen but are a very small percentage of murders. The US Department of Homeland Security has advice on what to do in an active shooter incident.

Research your destination before you travel and follow the advice of local authorities. Crime linked to illegal drugs is a major issue in Mexican states bordering Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. Some foreign nationals have been victims of crime in the border regions, but there is no evidence they were targeted because of their nationality.

Protests

Protests are common and can become violent. Follow the instructions of local authorities who may introduce curfews or emergency orders. If you attend peaceful protests or mass gatherings:

be mindful of your surroundings
move away if there are signs of trouble
follow the instructions of local authorities

Laws and cultural differences

US states may have different laws. While you are in a state, you are subject to both that state’s laws as well as national (federal) law. Not adhering to all US state and federal law can put your visa status and future travel to the US at risk.

Personal ID

Always carry a passport showing you have permission to enter or remain in the US.

Alcohol laws

The national legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 across the US.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through airports. US law prohibits the importation, exportation, manufacture, sale or transportation of drug paraphernalia. If you are convicted of any of these offenses, you will be subject to fines and imprisonment.

Airports in USA have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. All persons arriving at a port-of-entry to the United States are subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.

Check state laws to make sure you follow laws on possession and use of controlled substances. The US Department of Justice provides a list of all controlled substances.

LGBT+ travellers

The US is a very diverse society and attitudes towards LGBT+ people differ hugely across the country. Check state and local laws for the areas you plan to travel to. Refer to entry requirements which may apply to LGBT+ travellers (see entry requirements).

Outdoor Activities

If you’re taking part in organised outdoor activities, check that the company is reputable and has documented safety procedures.

For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous (for example off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing or paragliding), your insurance should include:

mountain rescue services
helicopter costs
repatriation to your country of residence or possible transfer to neighbouring countries for treatment

Hiking

Check weather forecasts and conditions and make sure you’re properly equipped for the worst-case scenario with items such as a map, compass, GPS and telecommunication equipment.
Risks are greater if you undertake any activity alone. You may want to hire a guide for expert advice. Always leave copies of your itinerary with someone.
Check the US National Park Service website for additional advice.

Winter sports

Read about preparing for winter sports abroad.
Take advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel. Follow local skiing laws and regulations.
Off-piste skiing is very dangerous and can invalidate your travel insurance. Avalanches are a risk in some areas. Follow safety instructions carefully and go with a qualified guide. Check ahead on the National Avalanche Center website

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in the US, see information on driving abroad and check the driving rules in the states you’ll be visiting.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in the US. You may need to get the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. IDP requirements vary in each state. For more information, consult individual states’ Department of Motor Vehicles as well as the American Automobile Association (AAA).

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you still have a paper driving licence, you must take another form of photo ID, such as your passport. You can also exchange your paper driving licence for a photocard licence.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP.

Vehicle safety

When travelling by car, you should:

check weather conditions before a long car journey, particularly in mountainous, isolated or desert areas where services may be limited
not sleep in your car by the road or in rest areas
avoid leaving any items on display in your car
stay on main roads
use well-lit car parks

If you’re in an accident, ask any other drivers involved to follow you to a public place and call the police.

Petrol stations

Petrol stations that do not display the price of fuel usually charge considerably more than the national average. They’re often close to tourist destinations and airports. Make sure you know the price of fuel before using these services.

Air travel

Before you travel, check the security measures you’re likely to face at the airport on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website. If you have a medical condition or disability and need assistance, contact TSA Cares.

To monitor airport conditions in the US, check the Federal Aviation Administration website.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Snowstorms

Snowstorms can disrupt critical infrastructure, and cause power cuts, or delays and cancellations in major transport hubs. Contact your travel company or airline before you travel.

Hurricanes

The Atlantic hurricane season normally runs from June to November. The Pacific hurricane season normally runs from May to November. Hurricanes can affect coastal regions, Hawaii and Guam. The South Pacific tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to May and can affect American Samoa.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) seasonal outlook predicts a “below-normal Atlantic hurricane season” and an “above-normal hurricane season in the central Pacific basin”, including the waters around Hawaii in 2026. Travellers to the USA during hurricane season should check the websites of local, State and Federal agencies (such as NOAA and the US National Hurricane Center) for the latest forecasts and conditions. You should also be aware of the possibility of disruption to flights and other transport services.

You should:

monitor approaching storms on the US National Hurricane Center website
follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders
visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information on preparing for extreme weather and evacuatingCheck with your airline or travel agent about possible disruption to flights or airport services and follow their advice

Earthquakes

While earthquakes can happen anywhere without warning in the US, Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington and the entire Mississippi River Valley are at higher risk for earthquakes.

The FEMA website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can happen anytime depending on weather conditions. The FEMA website has advice about what to do before, during and after a tornado.

Volcanic eruptions

There is volcanic activity across parts of the US with Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington and Oregon having the largest number of active volcanoes. You should follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

The FEMA website has advice about what to do before, during and after a volcanic eruption.

Wildfires

Forest and brush fires (wildfires) are a danger in many dry areas, particularly in canyons, hills and forests. High winds can mean fires spread rapidly.

You should:

monitor local media and weather reports
follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders
be careful in areas recently affected by wildfires, as there may be mudslides during heavy rainfall

For more information visit the National Interagency Fire Center and Fire Research and Management Exchange System websites.

For information about wildfires in California, see the CAL FIRE website.

Flash flooding

Flash floods can cause travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from the US’s National Weather Service (NOAA) before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Arctic travel

Parts of the US are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice.

Health

Before you travel check that:

your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

check the latest vaccine recommendations for the US (or the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands)
see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in the US (or the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands), including:

Zika virus
West Nile virus

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of the US. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

You cannot take some prescription drugs into the US. The US Food and Drug Administration provides information on bringing medicines into the US.

UK prescriptions are not valid in the US. To get pharmacy drugs, you need a prescription from a US provider (available from an urgent care facility, emergency room or a doctor).

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare in the US

Medical treatment is expensive and there are no special arrangements for British visitors.

Some hospitals ask non-US residents to pay a deposit when admitted. Send any requests for funds to your travel insurance provider first; only pay the hospital if you’re advised to do so by your travel insurance company. Your medical care will not be affected while your claim is processed.

Medical facilities in American Samoa are basic and you may need medical evacuation by air ambulance to Hawaii, New Zealand or Australia.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Expatriates, employment and immigration in United States

A temporary visit to United States and permission to reside there are separate planning questions. The terms “expatriate”, “immigrant” and “resident” describe circumstances, but they do not identify an immigration category by themselves. Determine the lawful basis for the intended stay and whether the application is made before travel or through a permitted procedure after arrival. This guide does not assume that a visitor can change status locally, obtain employment or remain indefinitely.

For employment, confirm whether the prospective employer must sponsor the applicant, obtain an approval or demonstrate particular conditions before the worker applies. Ask whether the permission is tied to a specific employer, occupation or location and what happens if the employment ends. Professional licensing, recognition of qualifications and an immigration work authorisation may be separate requirements. A job offer without the required permission should not be treated as a lawful start date.

International students should verify the institution, course eligibility and the immigration requirements directly with the competent offices. Admission, tuition payment and a student visa are separate milestones. Establish whether part-time work is allowed, whether dependants can accompany the student and what options exist after the course. Do not infer work rights or a settlement route from a school’s marketing claims. Keep a budget for study, accommodation, insurance and the return journey.

For family migration, establish which relationships are recognised and what evidence is accepted. Marriage, partnership, parenthood or dependency may involve different procedures, and a family member’s nationality does not automatically settle the applicant’s rights. Check income, accommodation or sponsorship requirements where applicable. Document custody and consent for children travelling with one parent. If names differ across civil records, obtain appropriate explanations and accepted supporting documents.

Long-term residence and citizenship should be researched as distinct stages. Temporary permits can expire, require renewal or impose limits on absence. Permanent status may have separate qualifying conditions, and naturalisation may involve language, residence, conduct or other legal tests. No number of years or automatic entitlement is promised here for United States. Before relying on a future route, ask the responsible authority or a qualified local adviser to identify the current provision and its conditions.

Practical preparation for living in United States

The language information for United States lists English. Identify the language used by the office handling the application and by the intended employer, school, clinic or landlord. A multilingual country can have significant regional differences. Arrange interpretation when accuracy matters, particularly for a contract or medical consultation, and keep translated copies of essential information. Everyday language learning can help integration, but it does not replace a required certified translation.

Use United States dollar (USD) as the starting point for a local budget and verify the monetary arrangements with the relevant central bank or financial institution. Avoid treating an old exchange-rate statistic as a quote for a present transaction. Separate immigration fees, transport, deposits, accommodation, utilities, insurance and professional charges. Compare the exchange rate, transfer fee and receiving-bank cost, and keep a reserve for a delayed arrival or an unexpected return journey.

An accommodation decision should follow the lawful duration and purpose of stay. Verify the property, the landlord’s authority and the contract before paying a deposit. Ask about utilities, notice periods, registration documents and refund conditions. A temporary booking can provide flexibility while the newcomer checks a neighbourhood and travel times. If accommodation evidence is needed for an application, confirm the accepted form with the authority rather than assuming that every informal invitation or booking is sufficient.

Healthcare preparation should reflect both the traveller’s health and the local services available. Review the country-specific health advice where supplied, consult an appropriate clinician for vaccinations or medication questions, and check the insurance wording. Carry prescriptions and establish the rules for importing controlled medicines. A familiar medicine brand may not be available in United States; plan continuity of treatment through a legitimate provider. Insurance should cover the actual activities and circumstances of the stay.

Families should assess schools, childcare, accessibility and the effect of the move on each member’s legal status. Check enrolment documents and whether translated academic or vaccination records are required. An adult’s work permission does not necessarily give a spouse work rights or a child access to every service. A realistic plan includes transport, communication, emergency contacts and arrangements if one family member’s application is delayed or refused.

Tax residence, immigration residence and access to public services can be governed by different rules. A person may need professional advice about income earned abroad, employment deductions or obligations in both the departure and destination jurisdictions. Do not infer tax treatment from an immigration label. Keep records of arrival and departure dates, contracts and payments, and ask a qualified adviser to identify the relevant rules for the actual circumstances.

After arrival, check whether a residence card, address registration, identity number or another local procedure is required by the authorised route. Maintain a calendar of expiry dates and renewal windows using the official instructions. Keep important records securely, with a backup available if a device is lost. When leaving United States, settle contractual obligations, retain payment evidence and check whether departure affects a continuing permission or a future return.

A preparation checklist for United States

Prepare one coherent personal record before consulting an adviser. It should state the traveller’s nationality, passport type, current legal residence, destination, intended dates and purpose. Include dependants and all transit points. This simple profile reduces misunderstandings and helps the adviser distinguish a visitor application from employment, study or family residence. Leave out unnecessary sensitive documents until the recipient and purpose have been verified.

Create a document register with the issuing body, issue date, expiry date, language and any certification requirement for each item. Note whether an original, copy or digital version is accepted. This is particularly useful for civil records and qualifications that may take time to obtain. A well-organised file makes it easier to answer a request for additional evidence without accidentally sending contradictory versions of the same document.

Use a financial worksheet that separates the application cost from the cost of the journey and the first period in United States. Record which payments are refundable and what conditions apply. A consultation charge, government visa fee, airline ticket and accommodation deposit are different transactions with different terms. Request itemised invoices and retain receipts; a single total described as a “visa package” can obscure what has actually been purchased.

Before submitting the application, read the form as a whole. Check dates against the itinerary, employment details against the contract and funds against the stated budget. Where an explanation is needed, make it factual and concise. If a representative prepares the application, review it yourself before signing. Responsibility for the truth of the information should not be delegated to an adviser or a travel agent.

Before departure, check the current official entry and travel advice, the transport operating status, the documents required at boarding and any arrival formalities. Download essential records for offline use and keep paper copies where practical. Share the itinerary with a trusted contact and confirm the first arrival transfer. A complete application file is useful, but it is the current permission and actual travel conditions that determine whether the planned journey can proceed.

Choosing assistance for a United States application

Select a consultant by relevant experience and a clear written scope. Ask which part of the process the consultation covers: identifying an appropriate category, explaining a checklist, reviewing evidence or representing the applicant where permitted. The adviser should distinguish general preparation from legal representation and identify any local licensing or authorisation required for the service. A confident sales statement is not a substitute for a source-backed explanation.

Request a written fee breakdown and understand what is excluded. Government charges, translations, courier costs, appointments and further representation may be separate. Ask who will handle the file, how questions are answered and what records the customer receives. A consultant should not promise guaranteed approval or claim influence over the decision-maker. The authority responsible for United States determines the outcome under the applicable rules.

When using VisaWand, compare the profile, the consultation scope and the displayed fee before booking. The consultation is an opportunity to clarify the route and preparation; it does not itself create entry permission. Keep control of original documents, email accounts and official application credentials. Provide sensitive material only through an appropriate verified channel, and ask how it will be stored, used and deleted when the service ends.

Sources, dates and attribution

Country metadata: mledoze/countries, Open Database Licence. Historical extracts: CIA World Factbook, public domain, final archived edition. FCDO extracts: © Crown copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0. Maps: original VisaWand artwork using public-domain Natural Earth data.

Source collection date: 2026-10-10. Archived Factbook profile date: January 13, 2026. Government advice snapshot last updated: 2026-08-18T10:29:04+01:00.

Licences: Open Database Licence · Open Government Licence v3.0. Country identifiers include territories and do not imply a position on international recognition. Download the derived country-facts database (ODbL).

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