VISAS AND PASSPORTS

From 26 October 2004, all passengers intending to enter the USA on the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) will be required to present a machine-readable passport (MRP). Passengers travelling to the USA with a non-machine readable passport will require a valid US entry visa.
Children cannot benefit from the Visa Waiver Programme unless they hold THEIR OWN M.R.P.  Children currently included on their parent’s passport should obtain their own MRP prior to travelling to the USA.

Applying for a US Visa is a lengthy process, can take several weeks and may require a visit to the US Embassy in London. Therefore it is strongly recommended that all UK nationals who hold a non-machine readable passport should obtain a MRP before their next visit to the USA.
A MRP has the holders personal details, e.g. name, date of birth, nationality and their passport number contained in two lines of text at the base of the photo page. This text may be read by machine.

 Click on UK passport logo to see most up to date information

IMPORTANT NOTE ON ELIGIBILITY FOR V.W.P.

The introduction of MRP for entry into the USA, is a new system which will allow greater monitoring of those visitors with a prior arrest record or criminal conviction. You must make yourself aware of any possible restrictions that would stop you entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme

BIOMETRIC PASSPORTS

UK Passports issued on or after October 26, 2004 may have to include a biometric identifier in order to enter the USA on the Visa Waiver Programme. This date is being reviewed and may be extended to commence 30th November 2006. Please check with the United Kingdom Passport Authority (link above) and / or the USA Department of Homeland Security