United States Visa RequirementsFor Bermuda passport holders
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory. Residents holding full British Citizen passports can travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program using ESTA. Residents with only British Overseas Territories Citizen status require a B1/B2 visa. Uniquely, Bermuda has a US pre-clearance facility at L.F. Wade International Airport.
Bermuda passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Check your passport type. Full British Citizens can apply for ESTA at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. If you require a B1/B2 visa, apply at the US Consulate General in Hamilton, Bermuda (Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire) or through a nearby US Embassy. Complete the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview. Note: Bermuda may have a US consular presence given pre-clearance operations.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background, taken within last 6 months
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled at the US Embassy or consulate
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns showing ability to fund trip
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment proof
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended dates and purpose of travel to the US
Current Travel Situation
Bermuda to United States: What You Need to Know
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic, known as an offshore financial center and popular US vacation destination. Bermuda has a unique advantage: US Customs and Border Protection operates a pre-clearance facility at Bermuda's L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), meaning US-bound travelers clear US immigration and customs in Bermuda before departure. UK citizens (with full British citizenship) can use ESTA. Residents with only British Overseas Territories Citizen status without full British citizenship must apply for a B1/B2 visa. Bermuda has very close ties with the US, and many residents travel to the US frequently.
How to Get There
American Airlines and Delta fly direct from Bermuda (BDA, L.F. Wade International) to New York (JFK, LGA), Boston (BOS), and Miami (MIA). JetBlue and United also serve BDA. Flight time to New York is approximately 2 hours.
Money & Banking
The Bermuda dollar is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, so Bermudians are familiar with USD values. In the US, tipping is expected: 15 to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 for hotel porters. Credit cards are universally accepted. Budget $150 to $250 per day in major US cities, though New York is comparable in cost to Bermuda.
Practical Tips
Determine your British citizenship status before applying. If you need a B1/B2 visa, check wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. The pre-clearance facility at BDA airport means you clear US immigration before boarding your flight. Bring documentation of your ties to Bermuda: employment, property, and community ties. Bermuda's high cost of living means financial ties are generally strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bermuda residents need a visa to visit the United States?
It depends on your passport. Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory. Full British Citizens can use ESTA to enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program. Those with only BOTC status require a B1/B2 visa. Note: Bermuda also has a special US pre-clearance facility at its airport.
What is the US pre-clearance facility at Bermuda's airport?
US Customs and Border Protection operates a pre-clearance facility at L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA) in Bermuda. This means eligible travelers (with a valid visa or ESTA) clear US immigration and customs in Bermuda before their flight, arriving at US airports as domestic passengers. This speeds up arrivals considerably.
What airlines fly from Bermuda to the United States?
American Airlines and Delta fly direct from Bermuda (BDA) to New York (JFK, LGA), Boston (BOS), and Miami (MIA). JetBlue and United also serve BDA with US routes. Flight time to New York is approximately 2 hours.
How do Bermuda British Citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov with your British Citizen passport. The fee is $21 and ESTA is typically valid for 2 years. Your passport must say "British Citizen" to qualify for the VWP.
Is the Bermuda dollar the same as the US dollar?
Yes. The Bermuda dollar (BMD) is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. Bermudians are fully familiar with USD values. In the US, tipping is expected: 15 to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 for hotel porters.
Where do Bermuda BOTC passport holders apply for a US B1/B2 visa?
There may be US consular services available in Bermuda. Check the US Embassy Bermuda page or apply at the nearest US Embassy with capacity. Complete the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview.