The relationship between the UK and USA are excellent, immigration law remains strict, more so since the awful events of September 2001 and the subsequent emphasis on enhanced security. Changes to rules mean that if travelling to and from the USA on or after 26 Oct 2004 travellers must be in possession of a Machine Readable Passport. These can generally be identified by two lines of computer code printed at the bottom of the biographical page (the page that contains the passport holders personal details). Travellers not in possession of machine readable passports will be required to apply for either B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa or apply for a new passport
(this is regardless of whether your original is still valid or not).
 
In addition, families will be required to obtain individual passports for each child should they wish to travel visa free, regardless of the fact that they may currently hold a family machine-readable passport. This means every passenger travelling will now be required to hold their own personal passport. The reason is the coded information will only obtain one persons details.
 
If you are in any doubt whatsoever, as to whether or not your passport is a machine-readable passport, you should contact the UK Passport office on 0870 5210410, or if a British passport holder, the UK Passport Agency. This is a simple phone call to put your mind at rest.
 
Most British passport holders with no criminal record should be eligible for the visa waiver scheme which simply requires the completion of a form on the plane and allows you to stay for 90 days.

Any questions not answered on this page should be directed to the American Embassy in London for the very latest information.

Use the link below to visit their web site
 
Link to American Embassy