UK Passport Rule Changes: What All British Dual Citizens Need to Know
Starting 26 February 2026, all British dual citizens face new rules when entering the UK. Travelers can no longer use only a foreign passport, even if they are legally British.
New Entry Requirements for Dual Citizens
The UK government now requires dual nationals to enter with a valid British or Irish passport. Alternatively, travellers may use a Certificate of Entitlement to the right of abode in their foreign passport. Airlines will enforce these rules at check-in and may deny boarding to those without correct documentation.
The Certificate of Entitlement costs £589 and can take several weeks to process. British citizens who already hold a valid passport are unaffected.
Impact on Travellers
The new rules have caused widespread disruption, especially for those whose British passports have expired. Travellers may face long waits of three to 17 weeks to secure a passport or Certificate of Entitlement.
Affected dual citizens can:
- Travel on a valid British passport.
- Travel on a valid Irish passport, if eligible.
- Apply for a Certificate of Entitlement to enter on their foreign passport.
- Renounce British citizenship and travel on their other passport with an ETA (last-resort option).
Airlines now check documentation at boarding. Travellers without the correct passport or certificate risk being denied entry.
Broader Context: UK ETA Rollout
The rule change coincides with the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Visa-free visitors from other countries can enter the UK with a £16 ETA. Dual citizens, however, face stricter requirements, creating a significant contrast.
Why This Matters for Travel Planning
All dual citizens should check passport validity immediately. Travel agents and airlines advise renewing British passports well in advance to avoid cancelled trips or lost bookings. Travel insurance typically does not cover issues caused by missing or incorrect documents.
The new rules apply to all dual nationals globally, not just residents of specific countries. This change reinforces the UK’s stricter border security approach but also increases the administrative burden on travellers.
Key Takeaways for British Dual Citizens
- You cannot use only a foreign passport to enter the UK.
- Secure a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement.
- Airlines enforce compliance at check-in.
- Allow sufficient time for renewals; expect long processing times.
- Planning ahead avoids cancelled trips and financial losses.