From 25 February 2026, the UK is introducing important new changes to how British dual nationals must prove their citizenship when travelling home — and it’s already stirring controversy. These rules form part of the broader rollout of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system and updated border procedures.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changing — and what it means for British citizens with more than one nationality.
No More Travelling to the UK on a Foreign Passport Alone
Under the new rules:
- Dual British nationals will no longer be able to enter the UK using a foreign passport alone, even if that passport would normally let them travel visa-free.
- To come to the UK, you must either carry a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode in your foreign passport.
This applies whether you’re flying, taking a ferry or crossing by train — and airlines will check this before departure. If you don’t have the correct documentation, you may be refused boarding.
Why the Change?
The UK government explains that this rule is needed because the ETA system cannot determine someone’s British citizenship from a non-UK passport alone — and system checks now have to confirm eligibility before travel.
Previously, many dual nationals could fly to the UK on their second nationality passport without issues. That loophole is now closing under the updated border controls.
What You Must Have in 2026
Here are your options if you’re a British national with dual citizenship:
- Valid British passport — this is the simplest and most straightforward option.
- Certificate of Entitlement — if you don’t have a British passport, you can apply for this document that shows the right to live in the UK. It’s expensive and takes time.
- Emergency travel document — available in urgent cases, but only valid for a single trip.
The Certificate of Entitlement is costly (often over £500 in fees) and must be included in your foreign passport or linked digitally to it to be accepted at border checks.
Children and Families Are Affected Too
The same rules apply to children with dual citizenship — even if they’ve never had a British passport before. If a child travelling on a foreign passport doesn’t also have a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement, their travel plans could be disrupted once the new rules start.
Criticism and Confusion
The policy has sparked pushback from dual nationals abroad and advocacy groups. Many feel the changes were poorly communicated, and some have called for a grace period to help people update documentation without facing travel chaos.
Critics also argue the rules could cause financial and emotional hardship, especially for families and those with tight timeframes to travel home.
Key Points for Dual British Nationals
Here’s what you should do now if you hold British citizenship plus another nationality:
- Check whether you have a valid British passport before your next trip.
- Apply early for a Certificate of Entitlement if needed.
- Don’t rely on an ETA — you’re not eligible for one as a British citizen.
- Plan for extra time when arranging your travel documents.
Final Thoughts
Holding dual nationality in the UK hasn’t changed, but the way you have to prove it at the border now has. If you’re used to flying home on your “other” passport, those days are ending. The government says the new system improves security and clarity, but many travellers say it creates new headaches — especially for families and long-term expats.
Whether you live overseas, visit family frequently, or are planning travel in the coming months, getting your documentation in order now is essential.