As a UK citizen, if you are planning to travel to the United States, it is important to be aware of the duration of your stay. The USA has strict immigration policies and overstaying can lead to serious legal consequences. In this article, we will discuss how long UK citizens can stay in the USA and the requirements for extending their stay.
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Visa Waiver Program
UK citizens can enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. This program is only available for tourism or business purposes, and does not allow for any paid work or study.
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B-1/B-2 Visa
If you are planning to stay in the USA for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa. This visa allows UK citizens to stay in the USA for up to 6 months, with the possibility of extending their stay for an additional 6 months.
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ESTA
If you are travelling under the VWP, you will need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your trip. This authorization allows you to enter the USA without a visa, but you must have a return ticket and a valid passport.
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Visa Extension
If you are in the USA on a B-1/B-2 visa and wish to extend your stay, you will need to file an application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS will review your application and determine if you are eligible for an extension.
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Overstaying
Overstaying your visa can have serious legal consequences. If you overstay your visa by less than 180 days, you may be barred from re-entering the USA for up to 3 years. If you overstay for more than 180 days, you may be barred for up to 10 years.
In conclusion, UK citizens can stay in the USA for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program, or up to 6 months with a B-1/B-2 visa. It is important to comply with immigration policies to avoid any legal consequences. If you wish to extend your stay, make sure to file an application with the USCIS before your visa expires.
