The United Kingdom is set to implement new passport and entry rules for dual citizens beginning February 25, 2026, a move that will significantly affect millions of British nationals living abroad.
The changes are part of the government’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rollout, which is designed to enhance border security and streamline visa-free travel procedures.
Experts say the rules will particularly impact British and Irish dual nationals, who have historically entered the UK using foreign passports. Under the new system, dual citizens will be required to prove their British or Irish nationality at entry, or face the risk of being denied boarding or refused entry altogether.
Key Changes at a Glance
- Mandatory Use of British or Irish Passports
From February 25, 2026, all British and Irish dual nationals must present a UK or Irish passport when entering the country. Foreign passports alone will no longer suffice. Officials warn that failing to carry the required documents could result in delays or outright refusal at the border. - Certificate of Entitlement for Foreign Passport Holders
For dual nationals wishing to travel with a foreign passport, a Certificate of Entitlement will be required. This document confirms a traveller’s right of abode in the UK. However, it costs £589 and must be renewed whenever the passport it is linked to expires, making it a potentially expensive and time-consuming process for frequent travellers. - The ETA System
The UK’s ETA operates similarly to the US ESTA programme. It applies to travellers from visa-free countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the EU, and Schengen states. Costing £16 and valid for two years, the ETA allows short-term visits for tourism, business, or short-term work. - Dual Nationals Cannot apply for an ETA
British and Irish dual nationals are explicitly excluded from applying for an ETA. This creates a challenge for those who previously relied on foreign passports for travel, forcing them to prove their UK or Irish citizenship instead. - Short-Term Travel Rules Remain Until February 2026
Until the February 25 deadline, dual nationals may still use foreign passports without an ETA. Travellers already in the UK prior to the enforcement date can remain beyond the deadline without needing to apply for an ETA. - Overseas-Born British Citizens Must Register
Individuals born abroad to British parents who have never held a UK passport must register and obtain one before travelling. Without this proof, travellers risk being denied boarding or entry, even if they have lived overseas for years. - Dual Citizenship Status Remains Unaffected
The UK government stresses that these rules do not affect the legal rights of dual nationals to live or work in the UK. The changes strictly govern entry procedures and passport verification.
Implications for Travellers
The new rules underscore the importance of planning ahead, especially for frequent travellers who may rely on foreign passports. Experts advise:
- Ensure your British or Irish passport is valid well in advance of travel.
- If using a foreign passport, secure a Certificate of Entitlement early to avoid delays.
- Keep abreast of ETA application procedures if travelling from visa-free countries.
- For overseas-born British citizens, confirm registration of citizenship and passport issuance.
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For families, students, and professionals living abroad, these rules could impact travel timelines, study programmes, and business trips, particularly if documents are incomplete or certificates are delayed.
UK 2026 Dual Citizenship Rules – Key Information Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Enforcement Date | February 25, 2026 |
| Who It Affects | British and Irish dual citizens living abroad |
| Mandatory Passport | Must use a British or Irish passport to enter the UK |
| Foreign Passport Travel | Requires a Certificate of Entitlement confirming the right of abode |
| Certificate of Entitlement Cost | £589 (must be renewed when linked passport expires) |
| ETA System | Digital permit for visa-free travellers; costs £16; valid for 2 years |
| Dual Citizens & ETA | Cannot apply for ETA; must prove British or Irish nationality |
| Visa-Free Countries Affected | US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, EU, Schengen states |
| Maximum Stay with ETA | Up to 6 months for tourism, business, or short-term work |
| Current Rules Until Feb 2026 | Dual nationals may enter on foreign passports without ETA |
| Overseas-Born Britons | Must register for citizenship and obtain a UK passport before travelling |
| Impact on Legal Status | Rules do not affect the right to live, work, or study in the UK; only entry procedures are affected |
The UK’s 2026 dual citizenship passport rules represent a major shift in border policy. While the changes strengthen national security, they place new responsibilities on dual nationals to ensure they carry the correct documents.
Travellers are strongly encouraged to review their passports and certificates now, to avoid complications at the border and ensure smooth entry into the United Kingdom.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
