Hello Kelly!
We're so glad you brought your question to planDisney.
Lighting Lane Passes are available for purchase and can save guests valuable time as compared to waiting in the standby line for many attractions. Guests have different purchasing windows depending on where they'll be staying and the type of ticket they'll be using. Let's discuss the details!
Guests of
Disney Resorts Collection hotels can purchase Lightning Lane Passes for their length of stay 7 days before their resort check-in date. Off-site guests can purchase 3 days before their multi-day ticket start date for their length of admission, while Annual Passholders can purchase 3 days before their visit one day at a time as they reach the 3-day mark. In all these scenarios guests must be physically in the US to access the purchasing features within the
My Disney Experience Mobile App. Unfortunately, the app functionality will not be available while you are still in the UK, but you should have access as soon as you arrive stateside.
I realize not all international guests arrive in the US days before their first park visit, but I'm hopeful this won't pose too much of a problem for your plans. I recommend reviewing attraction availability as soon as you arrive and continuing to check for available modifications during your park day. Keep in mind that attractions via
Virtual Queue become available to all guests at 7 a.m. EST each morning, so you won't have any advantage or disadvantage in securing a boarding group as an off-site guest.
I hope this clears up any confusion, Kelly. If we can answer additional questions or offer recommendations for your visit please come back and let us know.
Magic and memories,
Amy