Does a US Citizen need a visa to enter as a tourist to the UK for 6 months?
Everything I've seen points to no (and I would love that to be true since applying for a visa online costs money) but I'm worried about getting refused due to the length of time I wish to stay, which is 6 months.
I went to university in the UK on a Tier 4 visa, but have never just been a tourist which is what I would like to do now. Since graduating, I have started working but am underwhelmed and would love to travel again. My original plan was Australia but now I would like to see the rest of the UK as well beforehand.
If I arrived with the following, would I be refused entry simply for not applying online?: an approved Australian work & holiday visa, a mini itinerary, bank statements for the last 6 months.
Best Answer
The US is a non-visa national country which means you do not have to apply for entry clearance (visa) before you arrive. Instead, you have a landing interview with an Immigration Officer at the port. If your landing interview is successful, you will get 6 months leave to enter.
The landing interview will cover the points listed in Appendix V of the Immigration Rules. You would be advised to bring supporting evidence with you. The ones you listed will help. Because you were previously here on a T4, you should expect a more intensive landing interview because it may look like you are attempting to build up a life in the UK or look for work or possibly break the rules.
Genuine visitors do not stay for a long time because they have a life some place else. You should be prepared to explain how you will support yourself during your visit.
You can find Appendix V of the rules here.
Based upon what you wrote, a solid understanding of items V 4.2 is advised, particularly 'successive visits'...
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How long can an American tourist stay in the UK?
You can visit the UK as a Standard Visitor for tourism, business, study (courses up to 6 months) and other permitted activities. You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You might be able to apply to stay for longer in certain circumstances, for example to get medical treatment.Can a US citizen stay in the UK longer than 6 months?
You can only apply to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months if you're: a patient receiving medical treatment. an academic and you still meet the eligibility requirements. a graduate retaking the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board ( PLAB ) test or doing a clinical attachment.How long can you visit the UK without a visa?
Under the UK 's new points-based immigration system, you can continue to visit the UK without applying for a visa. In most cases you can stay for up to 6 months. You may participate in a wide range of activities including business-related activities such as meetings, events and conferences.What does a US citizen need to enter the UK?
You must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. You may also need a visa, depending on which country you're from.UK Visitor Visa | Visit the UK for up to 6 months | GSN Immigration | Part 1
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