Major changes to UK border rules will soon affect hundreds of thousands of British dual citizens, who could be refused entry if they attempt to travel without a valid UK passport. The shift is tied to the full implementation of the Home Office's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
What Are The New Entry Requirements?
From 25 February 2026, all British dual nationals entering the United Kingdom will be required to present either a valid British passport or a certificate of entitlement to prove their right of abode. This marks a significant departure from previous practice.
Previously, individuals holding citizenship of both Britain and another country could often travel to the UK using their non-British passport. They could also use alternative documents, like a certificate of naturalisation, to prove their status if questioned.
The change arises because British and Irish citizens are exempt from the new ETA requirement. Consequently, to prove this exemption at pre-departure checks conducted by airlines and other carriers, they must now show a British or Irish travel document. A House of Commons briefing noted that while there is no absolute legal requirement for a British citizen to travel on a British passport, carrier rules make it practically very difficult without one.
Who Will Be Impacted and What Are The Costs?
The rule change will apply to all British dual citizens living or travelling overseas. This broadly includes three groups:
- British-born people who have acquired another country's nationality.
- People who naturalised or registered as British later in life.
- Individuals who have been dual nationals since birth.
The financial implications are notable. Applying for or renewing a standard adult British passport online costs £94.50, while a child's passport is £61.50. For those applying from overseas, fees are slightly higher.
The alternative document, a certificate of entitlement placed in a foreign passport, costs a substantial £589. The Home Office has advised dual nationals to use a British passport for months, allowing an adjustment period, but enforcement will begin on the stated date.
Public and Expert Reaction to the ETA Changes
The Home Office defends the policy, stating it digitises the immigration system for a "more seamless travel experience" and provides greater power to block threats. However, affected individuals have expressed frustration and concern.
Cesare, a 33-year-old Italian-British maths lecturer at the University of Manchester, told Metro: "We all expected this, but my reaction was negative... everyone ends up paying the price." He highlighted a paradox where the rule change may cost dual citizens more than visitors and criticised rushed policy implementation.
An Australian-British dual citizen reportedly finds the change disheartening, struggling to justify the cost. On social media, opinions are divided. One Facebook user argued it was a "small price to pay for being lucky enough to have dual nationality," comparing it to similar Australian rules. Another commented pragmatically: "It's a privilege... Just keep both passports up to date."
The Commons briefing explains the core issue: carriers follow strict Home Office guidance and risk penalties for carrying improperly documented passengers. Documents like expired British passports or naturalisation certificates are not on the approved list for transport providers, leaving dual citizens with little choice but to obtain the specified travel documents.
