Traveling from Chicago to London: Passport and UK ETA Required

Chicago is one of the largest international gateways in the United States for travel to the United Kingdom. Every year, thousands of American and international travelers depart from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to London for business, tourism, education, or short city breaks.

⚠️ Important notice: UK entry rules have changed.
A flight ticket alone is no longer enough — a valid passport and, depending on your nationality, a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) are now required to travel to the United Kingdom.

👉 This complete guide explains how to travel from Chicago to London without stress and how to apply for your UK ETA online before departure.

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🌍 Can you travel easily from Chicago to London?

✅ Yes — if all entry requirements are met.

Direct flights Chicago → London

Chicago offers multiple daily nonstop flights to London throughout the year. However, airlines at O’Hare perform strict pre-boarding checks, and missing documents can result in denied boarding.

Before departure from Chicago, airlines verify:

🛂 Passport validity
📄 UK ETA approval (if required)
🎫 Right to enter the United Kingdom

💡 Traveler tip: Even for a short trip, complete all formalities well before arriving at the airport.

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🛂 Passport required to travel from Chicago to London

To enter the UK from the United States:

❌ State IDs or driver’s licenses are not accepted
✅ A valid passport is mandatory

Passport requirements

• Valid for the entire stay
• Undamaged and readable
• Clearly matching your travel details

💡 Important: Some airlines may refuse boarding if your passport expires soon.
👉 It is strongly recommended to have at least 6 months of remaining validity.

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🎫 UK ETA: who must apply when traveling from Chicago?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is required for many travelers who do not need a traditional UK visa.

Who must apply for a UK ETA from Chicago?

• 🇺🇸 U.S. passport holders
• 🇪🇺 European citizens
• 🌍 Travelers from UK visa-exempt countries

⚠️ Key rule:
👉 The departure city does not matter — your nationality determines ETA requirements.

Who does NOT need a UK ETA?

• British passport holders
• Travelers with a valid UK visa
• UK permanent residents

💡 The UK ETA is electronically linked to your passport and does not replace it.

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📝 How to apply for a UK ETA from Chicago

The process is fully online and must be completed before travel.

Simple steps

1️⃣ Complete the UK ETA application
2️⃣ Enter passport information exactly
3️⃣ Answer security questions
4️⃣ Pay the online fee (≈ €29)
5️⃣ Receive approval by email (minutes to 48 hours)

⚠️ Without an approved ETA, boarding may be denied at Chicago O’Hare.

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✈️ Direct flights Chicago → London

Chicago → London Heathrow (LHR)

⏱️ Flight time: ~8h
✈️ Airlines: British Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines
➡️ Best for business travel and premium services

Chicago → London Gatwick (LGW)

⏱️ Flight time: ~8h15
✈️ Airlines: Seasonal and connecting options
➡️ Good alternative for flexible schedules

💡 Tip: Mid-week flights often experience shorter immigration queues in London.

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📂 Documents to prepare before departure

✅ Mandatory documents

• Valid passport
• Approved UK ETA (if required)
• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of accommodation in London

📎 Strongly recommended

• Travel insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Invitation letter if staying with friends or family

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🌡️ Best time to travel from Chicago to London

Period	Advantages
April → June	Mild weather, fewer crowds
September → October	Good prices, pleasant climate

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❓ FAQ – Traveling from Chicago to London

Is a UK ETA required for short trips?
👉 Yes, even for short business or tourist visits.

Can I travel with a one-way ticket?
👉 Yes, but proof of onward travel is recommended.

Do children need a UK ETA?
👉 Yes, all visa-exempt travelers — including minors.

Do I need to print my ETA?
👉 No, it is fully digital.

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🧭 Conclusion

Traveling from Chicago to London is simple when you prepare correctly:

✔️ Valid passport
✔️ UK ETA requested in advance (if required)
✔️ Documents ready before departure
✔️ No stress at the airport

👉 Final tip: Apply for your UK ETA early and keep it digitally accessible throughout your journey.