**Yes—staying for around six months is possible as a UK citizen, but you should apply for a visitor visa before travelling.** The 90-day limit applies to entry under the **Visa Waiver Program using ESTA**. That stay generally cannot be extended. [US State Department rules](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html)

For a longer holiday, the usual route is a **B-2 tourist visa**, often issued as a combined B-1/B-2 visa:

- Complete the online **DS-160 application**, pay the application fee and arrange a visa interview through the US Embassy or Consulate.
- Explain your planned itinerary, how you will fund the whole trip, and why you will return to the UK—for example, employment, family or other commitments.
- Be honest about your intended trip length. Approval is not guaranteed. [Official visitor visa application guidance](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html)

**Visitors admitted with a B-2 visa normally receive around six months.** The border officer determines your permitted stay, recorded on your **I-94 arrival record**. The visa’s expiry date does not determine how long you can remain on any particular visit. [USCIS guidance](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/Nonimmigrant_Services.pdf)

**A year may be possible, but you should not count on it.** After entering on a B-2 visa, you can request an extension using **Form I-539 before your authorised stay expires**. You must justify the additional time, show you can support yourself and demonstrate definite plans to leave. An application does not guarantee approval. [Extension guidance](https://www.usa.gov/extend-visa), [USCIS guidance](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/Nonimmigrant_Services.pdf)

Two points to bear in mind:

- A short trip to Canada, Mexico or nearby islands **does not reset the ESTA 90-day allowance**. [Visa Waiver Program rules](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html)
- A visitor visa does **not permit employment or living permanently in the US**. If your purpose is work or formal study, you need the appropriate visa for that activity. [Visitor visa restrictions](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html)