UK Rules: Dual Citizens Need British Passport to Enter UK

Starting February 25, 2026, people who are citizens of both the UK and another country must use their British passport to travel to the UK. If they use a passport from another country, they might not be allowed to board their flight or train.
By Newsroom | UK Travel, Immigration |

The United Kingdom is implementing a significant policy shift affecting dual nationals, those holding British citizenship alongside another nationality. Starting February 25, 2026, these individuals may be denied boarding for travel to the UK if they do not possess and present a valid British passport. This new requirement stems from the full enforcement of the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which British citizens are ineligible to apply for.

The shift poses a potential logistical and practical challenge for many, particularly those who have historically traveled to the UK using their non-British passport. Airlines and transport carriers are tasked with enforcing these new entry requirements, leading to concerns about travelers being refused passage. The policy's rationale, according to official statements, centers on enhancing border security and streamlining the travel process, though it introduces complexities for a specific group of travelers.

The ETA Scheme and Dual Nationality

The UK's ETA scheme, designed as a digital pre-travel authorization for visitors, officially becomes mandatory for all international arrivals on February 25, 2026. Under current UK law and Home Office policy, British citizens, regardless of any other nationalities they may hold, are explicitly ineligible to apply for an ETA. This exclusion creates a direct conflict for dual nationals who habitually use their non-British passport for entry into the UK, as the airline's system will then treat them as foreign travelers requiring an ETA.

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  • British citizens are not eligible for an ETA.

  • Travelers who are British citizens but do not present a British passport will be treated as needing an ETA.

  • Airlines may refuse boarding if travelers cannot prove their British citizenship.

  • The most straightforward way to avoid ETA-related issues is to travel using a valid British passport.

Practical Implications for Travelers

The practical consequence of this policy change is that dual nationals who do not carry a valid British passport when traveling to the UK may face denial of boarding by airlines and other transport providers. This applies even if they are legally British citizens. The systems used by carriers will likely flag a non-British passport as requiring an ETA, and since British citizens cannot obtain one, the traveler will be deemed non-compliant.

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Dual nationals to be denied entry to UK from 25 February unless they have British passport - 1

  • Many dual nationals, including those born abroad to British parents, may hold British citizenship without possessing a current British passport.

  • Travel can be disrupted if a traveler arrives with only a non-British passport and an ETA cannot be legally obtained due to their British citizenship.

  • The timing of travel relative to the February 25 deadline is critical, with individuals returning to the UK after this date potentially facing the new rules.

  • Some countries, such as Spain, may require individuals to renounce other nationalities upon naturalization, creating a legal dilemma for those who hold both Spanish and British citizenship and are required to present their British passport for UK entry.

Government Rationale and Global Norms

The UK Home Office has stated that the ETA system aims to improve border security and create a more efficient travel experience for millions. A House of Commons briefing paper suggests that while there is no absolute legal mandate for British citizens to travel on a British passport, the practical pre-departure checks by carriers make it exceedingly difficult to board without one. This stance is presented as aligning with global security practices, with similar systems cited in the United States and Canada.

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  • The government asserts that the new rules enhance border security.

  • The ETA system is promoted as a means to ensure a seamless travel experience.

  • The UK High Commission maintains that these rules are in line with international standards.

In response to the impending changes, travel and immigration advisors are urging dual nationals to urgently check the validity of their British passports. For those whose passports have expired or are due to expire, prompt renewal is advised, considering the potential processing times. For individuals who have never held a British passport, or who may have latent citizenship through parentage, options such as applying for a British passport or, in some cases, a Certificate of Entitlement (COE), are being highlighted.

  • Urgent Passport Check: Dual nationals should verify their British passport's validity.

  • Renewal Application: Those needing a new or renewed British passport should initiate the process immediately due to potential delays.

  • Children of British Citizens: Children born abroad to British parents, who may have citizenship without a passport, will also need to comply.

  • Professional Assistance: Services are available to help individuals navigate the application process for passports and COEs.

| Issue | Traveler Type | Requirement | Potential Outcome without Compliance ||—-|—-|—-|—-|| ETA Eligibility | British Citizens (including dual nationals) | British Passport Required | Denied boarding for travel to the UK || ETA Eligibility | Non-British Citizens | Valid Passport + ETA | Permitted to travel to the UK || Airline Systems | Dual Nationals traveling on non-British passport | Proof of British Citizenship (via British passport) | Treated as needing an ETA, denied boarding if unable to comply |

Conclusion and Next Steps

The enforcement of the UK's ETA scheme from February 25, 2026, introduces a significant administrative requirement for dual nationals. The core issue is the ineligibility of British citizens for an ETA, necessitating the presentation of a valid British passport for entry into the UK. Failure to comply with this requirement, particularly at the point of boarding, carries the risk of being denied travel.

  • Key Action: Dual nationals planning to travel to the UK after February 25, 2026, must ensure they have a valid British passport.

  • For New Travelers/No Current Passport: Expedited applications for British passports are recommended.

  • Clarification: Individuals with complex citizenship statuses should seek expert advice.

  • Official Information: Travelers are encouraged to consult official UK government resources for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is affected by this new rule?
People who are citizens of the UK and another country are affected. They must use their British passport to enter the UK.
Q: When does this rule start?
The rule starts on February 25, 2026. After this date, the new rules will be used.
Q: What happens if I am a dual citizen and do not use my British passport?
You might be stopped from boarding your plane or train to the UK. This is because you will be seen as a visitor who needs special permission.
Q: Can I get a UK visa or travel permit if I am a British citizen?
No, British citizens cannot apply for the UK's travel permit system called ETA. This is why you must use your British passport.
Q: What should I do if I am a dual citizen?
Check if your British passport is valid. If it is not, or if you do not have one, you should apply for one as soon as possible.