Citizenship: USA
- For U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call (914) 592-2760.
- Your U.S. passport must be signed, valid for 6+ months, and have 2–3 blank visa pages (not "Amendment" pages).
- The fee for reformatting uploaded documents is $35.00..
Important Travel Update
Starting in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization before visiting the European countries requiring it. We recommend checking the official European Union ETIAS website for the most current requirements and implementation timelines.
Entry Requirements
- Valid, signed U.S. passport with at least 6 months’ validity beyond your stay and blank pages.
- UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation):
- U.S. citizens can apply for an ETA starting 27 November 2024.
- Travel to the UK using an ETA is permitted from 8 January 2025.
- Apply online; once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport and typically allows multiple short visits (tourism, business, family visits, short study).
- Check the current rules and eligible nationalities on the UK government ETA page.
- No visa in advance generally required for stays up to 6 months for tourism or business; final admission length is at the discretion of the UK Border Force officer on arrival.
- You can use an ETA instead of a visa if you’re:
- Visiting up to 6 months (tourism, family/friends, business, short-term study)
- Visiting up to 3 months under the Creative Worker concession
- Doing a permitted paid engagement
- Transiting the UK (including airside transit)
If traveling for other reasons (work, study over 6 months, settlement, etc.), contact JIDS for the correct visa.
- Long-stay/student/work visas require in-person biometrics (fingerprinting and photo).
- Requirements vary by nationality—call JIDS for guidance.
- Typical documents include a valid, signed passport (6+ months validity). U.S. residents should also provide:
- Permanent Residents: Original + copy (or notarized copy) of Green Card/Residence Card.
- U.S. Visa Holders: Copy of your valid U.S. visa.
Apply online and create an account. You can save and return to your form. Inactivity for 25 minutes logs you out.
- Complete the application in English and sign once printed.
- Pay the applicable visa fees online (keep proof of payment).
- Book and attend your biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo) via the commercial partner (VFS) after submitting the form and paying fees. Keep the stamped biometrics confirmation.
- Once you have the completed application, biometrics confirmation, and supporting documents, contact JIDS for assistance with submission.
- Priority Service may be offered during booking; processing times vary by case and nationality.
In addition to online fees, JIDS service fee is separate. Some applications also incur a third-party submission fee that JIDS may pay on your behalf.
Photo Requirements
- Your head must face the camera directly with full face in view.
- Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.
- Taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background.
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head between 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, in color.
- No glasses.
- No hat or head covering (exceptions for documented religious or medical reasons).
- Full face visible; no shadows on face.
- No headphones or wireless hands-free devices.
If Traveling for Business
- Cover letter from the U.S. company (on letterhead, signed by someone other than the traveler).
- Invitation letter from the UK company.
- Self-employed travelers: include recent bank statement(s).
Sample language: Business Letter Example.
If Traveling for Tourism
- Hotel reservation or tour confirmation
- Most recent bank statements (suggest last 3 months)
- Letter of employment
- Flight itinerary
Health Requirements
- Vaccinations are not required unless traveling from/through an infected area.
- Consult the CDC Travel Health site for complete guidance.
Register Your Trip (STEP)
Give yourself peace of mind.
JIDS can enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for $25.00 via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Accompanying Minors
- Application signed by both parents/guardians.
- Notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardians.
- Original and copy of the minor's birth certificate.
Non-U.S. Citizens
- Include a copy of your U.S. Green Card (permanent residents) or your U.S. visa (visa holders).
- Visa requirements vary by nationality. Call JIDS at (914) 592-2760 for assistance.
Return Shipping & JIDS Fees
Return Shipping
- FedEx charge according to ZIP code.
- Saturday/8AM delivery available.
- Include a printed airbill to avoid extra charges. (No UPS accounts can be processed through us.)
Service Fees
- See JIDS pricing or call (914) 592-2760.
- If JIDS pays government fees on your behalf, a 5.9% processing fee applies.
