United States vs United Kingdom: tourist visa
United States or United Kingdom for a tourist visa? Side by side: $254 vs $239 all-in, Varies by post vs 3 weeks decision, funds to show, process type, biometrics and which one fits your plan.
Verdict
- United Kingdom is cheaper ($239 vs $254 all-in)
- United Kingdom decides faster (3 weeks)
- United Kingdom asks for less money in the bank ($2,500 vs $3,000)
United States vs United Kingdom: tourist visa side by side
| United States | United Kingdom | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa format | Sticker | Sticker |
| Process | embassy visa | sticker visa |
| Biometrics | Required | Required |
| Interview | Yes | No |
| Government fee | $185 | $180 |
| vistolane filing fee | $69 | $59 |
| All-in per traveller | $254 | $239 |
| Decision window | Varies by post | 3 weeks |
| Validity | 10 years | 6 months |
| Stay | Up to 6 months per visit | Up to 6 months |
| Entries | Multiple | Multiple |
| Funds to show (tourist visa) | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| tourist visa route | B1/B2 Visitor | Standard Visitor |
Which is cheaper?
United States costs $254 all-in ($185 government fee plus $69 filing) and United Kingdom costs $239 ($180 plus $59). United Kingdom is cheaper by $15 per traveller. Neither figure includes optional attention plans or airport transfers.
Which is faster?
United States: Varies by post (Interview waits of several months at busy posts). United Kingdom: 3 weeks (3 weeks (15 working days)). United States depends on interview availability, which can add weeks at busy posts. vistolane quotes a guaranteed decision date for both before you pay.
Which needs less money in the bank?
United States asks for about $3,000 and United Kingdom about $2,500 for a tourist visa. United Kingdom is the lower bar. In both, statements must be seasoned for three months and match the plan you describe.
How the processes differ
United States: embassy visa with biometrics. United Kingdom: sticker visa with biometrics. An e-visa needs no appointment; a sticker visa holds your passport for the decision window; an embassy visa adds an interview and a decision at the window.
Which should you pick for a tourist visa?
For a short trip, weigh speed and entries: United Kingdom decides in 3 weeks. If you are choosing purely on cost, United Kingdom wins.