Planning a UK trip while living in the U.S. on a green card? Here’s the crucial rule: the UK bases your entry on your passport nationality, not on the fact that you hold a U.S. permanent resident card. Many nationalities now travel on a quick Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead of a visa, while others must apply for a Standard Visitor visa in advance. This guide explains which one you need, the requirements, how to apply step by step, and much more. 

Do I need a UK visa as a U.S. green card holder?

The answer is Maybe. It depends on your passport:

• If your passport is visa-exempt for short visits: You’ll usually need an ETA before boarding.

• If your passport is visa-required: You must apply for a Standard Visitor visa (or a transit visa, if only connecting). Use the official checker to confirm your route.

Pro tip: Run your nationality through the UK’s “Check if you need a UK visa” tool; it reflects the latest ETA and visa rules.

What documents do I need to apply for a UK visa?

Your green card is relevant only for your U.S. residence; for the UK application, requirements follow UK rules for your passport nationality:

• Passport: A valid passport with a blank page and validity spanning your trip.

• Photo: A recent photograph meeting the UK visa standards. 

• Proof of return: Round-trip flight reservations to prove your return.

• Financial proof: You need to submit the bank statements, payslips, sponsor letter, etc.

• Accommodation details: Hotel reservations and, if invited, an invitation letter signed by the inviting person and duly notarised in the UK.

• Ties to your country of residence: Proof such as an employment letter, proof of study, or a lease.

• Travel Insurance: The United Kingdom government requires visa applicants to have insurance, and Atlys offers the option to purchase it when you apply. 

• U.S. status evidence: A copy of your green card, as it shows your legal residence in the U.S.

How do I apply for a UK visa as a U.S. green card holder?

To apply for a UK visa, you can follow the steps below:

• Start at Atlys: Start your UK visa application by visiting the Atlys website.

• Provide documents and details: Create your profile and upload a copy of your passport, and provide the requested personal and passport details. 

• Fee payment: Check out and pay your UK visa fee. 

• Connecting with an Atlys visa concierge: An Atlys visa concierge will connect with you to collect the supporting documents. Our expert will review those documents and will let you know if any additional documents are required. The visa expert will also fill out the application form for you. 

• Scheduling appointment: Atlys will book the earliest available slot, during which you will be required to submit your documents and biometric information.

• Track your application status: At Atlys, we also keep you up to date on the progress of your UK visa application. 

• Receiving your visa: Once your visa is approved, you will be notified. Your passport with a UK visa will be delivered to you. 

What does a UK visa look like?

It’s a secure sticker (called a vignette) in your passport. It shows:

• Your visa type (Visit, Work, Study).

• Dates it’s valid from and until (and MULT if it’s multiple entries).

• Your details: name, date of birth, passport number, nationality.

• Issue info: where and when it was issued, plus any conditions.

• Security features such as holograms, fine print, and a machine-readable zone.

If my passport is visa-exempt, what do I need to enter the UK as a U.S. green card holder?

Your U.S. green card doesn’t change UK entry rules. The UK checks your passport's nationality. If your passport is visa-exempt, you’ll usually need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you fly. It is digital, and typically lets you make multiple visits of up to 6 months each for up to 2 years or until your passport expires.

Here is how you can apply for the UK ETA:

Step 1: Visit the Atlys website.

Step 2: Search for UK ETA and click the “start application” button.

Step 3: Upload your passport and a selfie.

Step 4: Pay the applicable fee.

Step 5: Receive the UK ETA on time!

What does a UK ETA look like? 

UK ETA isn’t a sticker or card; it’s digital and linked to your passport. After you apply, you’ll get a confirmation in the UK ETA app and/or by email. It typically shows:

• Status (e.g., Approved/Active)

• ETA reference number

• Your details (name, date of birth, passport number/nationality)

• Validity (usually up to 2 years or until your passport expires)

• Basic conditions (short visits, no work, etc.)

At the airport, you just travel with the same passport you used for the ETA. Airlines and UK border systems automatically check it. If you renew your passport, you’ll need a new ETA for the new passport.

How much do UK visas and ETAs cost for U.S. green card holders?

The UK visitor visa fee and ETA fee are given below:

• ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation): £16 per person.

• Standard Visitor visa (short stay up to 6 months): £127 fee for 6 months, Longer validity options cost more: 2-year £475, 5-year £848, 10-year £1059.

How long do the UK visa and ETA take to process?

Processing time is generally 25 to 30 working days from the date of submission. However, it’s best to apply at least 4-5 weeks before your travel date to account for any delays or additional document requests. The ETA approval process takes minutes; however, in special cases, you may be asked to wait 3 working days for verification. Here is how you can track your ETA progress. 

What should I do if the UK refuses my visa application?

If your UK tourist visa application is rejected, you have the following options:

• Reapply for a new visa: The refusal letter will outline the reasons for rejection. You must reapply for the visa only after addressing those reasons to increase your chances of a positive outcome. 

• Appeal the decision: Within 28 days from the receipt of the refusal letter, you can appeal the decision online through the Gov.UK website. 

Tip: It is usually recommended to reapply for the visa rather than appeal, especially if you can address the reasons for rejection with new or corrected information. Reapplying can often be quicker and may be more successful if your application is more thorough the second time.

Can I extend my UK tourist visa?

No. UK visitor visas aren’t normally extendable. Extensions are granted only in rare cases, such as when the original visa was issued for less than six months or if the visitor is undergoing medical treatment.

Do I need to fill out a seperate UK visa application for my child?

Yes. Every child needs their own UK application, whether it’s an ETA or a Standard Visitor visa.

• ETA: Each traveler (including babies) needs a separate ETA linked to the passport they’ll use. A parent/guardian can submit it on the child’s behalf.

• Standard Visitor visa: Each child files a separate online application and pays the same fee tier as adults (for the chosen duration).

Extra requirements for minors

• Parental consent: Signed consent from both parents/guardians (or proof of sole responsibility).

• Relationship proof: Typically, a birth certificate (and, if applicable, custody/guardianship papers).

• Travel details: Who the child is travelling with, where they’ll stay, and how the trip is funded.

• Biometrics: Children attend the appointment. Very young children may not give fingerprints, but a photo is still taken.

Tip: Keep names and dates consistent across the child’s passport, application, tickets, accommodation, and consent letters to avoid delays.

Your U.S. green card helps you return to America, but the UK decides your entry by your passport, so first confirm whether you need an ETA or a Standard Visitor (or Transit) visa, gather clean documents (ID, funds, ties, itinerary, accommodation), and plan enough time for biometrics and processing; if you’re visa-exempt, the ETA is quick and digital. If anything goes sideways, like a refusal to fill the gaps and reapply with stronger evidence.