What You Need to Know:
Significant changes are coming to the UK’s border rules on the 25th of February 2026, and they will directly affect British dual nationals living or travelling overseas. If you hold British citizenship and another nationality, it’s essential to understand how these updates will impact your ability to travel to the UK.
What Is Changing:
Under the new rules, British dual nationals will no longer be able to enter the UK using only their non‑UK passport. Instead, travellers must present one of the following:
- a valid UK passport, or
- a valid Irish passport, or
- another valid passport with a Certificate of Entitlement
Travellers will not be permitted to travel without one of these documents.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – Important Clarification:
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Dual UK or Irish nationals are not eligible for an ETA
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If a dual nation is travelling before 25 February 2026 and holds a passport from a nationality that is eligible for an ETA, they may continue to travel without an ETA or Certificate of Entitlement for travel before this date.
What to do now:
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If you plan to travel to the UK in 2026 or beyond, ensure you hold a valid British or Irish passport and apply early for a certificate of entitlement.