If it’s your first time visiting the U.S., or it’s been a while since your last trip, don’t forget the steps you need to take to enter the country. Making sure you’re up-to-date with the current requirements for non-U.S. citizens from the UK travelling to the United States will avoid any pre-flight panics.
UK visitors must apply online for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/). ESTA was introduced in 2009 and is obligatory for travelers under the ‘visa waiver’ program. As of 2010, you need to pay a fee using a credit card when applying for the ESTA.
If you don’t have a valid ESTA you won’t be able to board your flight to the U.S. – claiming ignorance about ESTA is not going to work! ESTA is valid for more than one trip, so you don’t need to worry about future visits within a two-year period.
You do need non-US citizen insurance to cover you for any medical emergencies or accidents that may occur when you’re in the States. Chances are, you’ll have a trouble-free trip but it pays to be prepared with visitor medical insurance.