Family / spouse for British citizens travelling to United States
Joining a US citizen or permanent resident relative uses immigrant or family visas, not ESTA.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Fiancé(e)s, spouses, children, and other family-based routes. · US Department of State: family immigration (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Permanent residence or the period granted on a family visa. · US Department of State: family immigration (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Fees on the Department of State and USCIS fee schedules. · US Department of State: family immigration (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Immigrant and family cases vary by category. Check National Visa Center (opens in a new tab) guidance and embassy wait times before you plan travel. · US Department of State: family immigration (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | USCIS petition and then embassy processing as directed. · US Department of State: family immigration (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Confirm the family category with USCIS guidance.
- File the petition and gather civil documents.
- Complete medical and interview steps at the embassy.
FAQ
Can I marry on ESTA?
A short visit to marry may be allowed, but staying to live needs the correct immigrant visa.
Is ESTA enough to visit children?
Short visits may use ESTA if eligible; relocation needs an immigrant visa.
Sources
- GOV.UK: USA entry requirements (opens in a new tab)
- US Customs and Border Protection: ESTA application (opens in a new tab)
- US Customs and Border Protection: Visa Waiver Program and ESTA questions (opens in a new tab)
- US Customs and Border Protection: Visa Waiver Program (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.