UK Travel Update for Dual British Nationals

19th February 2026

If you hold both British citizenship and another nationality, there’s a significant UK entry rule change you’ll want to pay attention to.

From 25 February 2026, dual British nationals will no longer be able to enter the United Kingdom using only a non-British passport. While this may sound like a small procedural adjustment, it has very real implications for boarding and travel planning.

Here’s what you need to know.

A Shift in How the UK Verifies Citizenship

The UK continues to modernize its border systems, moving toward a fully digitized model. As part of this transition, carriers — including airlines, private aviation operators, ferries, and international rail providers — are now expected to verify that passengers hold the correct documentation before departure.

In practical terms, this means documentation issues can stop a journey before it even begins.

What Dual British Nationals Must Present

Beginning 25 February 2026, travelers who are British citizens but also hold another nationality must use one of the following when travelling to the UK:

• A valid British passport, or
• A valid Irish passport, or
• A Certificate of Entitlement (COE) placed in their non-British passport

A foreign passport on its own will no longer be sufficient for entry.

For example:
A traveler with both British and American passports must use their British passport (or qualifying alternative). Entering the UK solely on the US passport will not be permitted.

Why This Change Is Especially Important

Unlike many immigration scenarios where issues are handled upon arrival, this rule is enforced at the point of departure.

If the required documentation is missing, passengers may encounter:

• Denied boarding
• Unexpected rebooking costs
• Significant travel delays

This applies equally to commercial and private travel.

The Transition Period Is Ending

Some travelers have previously relied on temporary allowances involving the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). That flexibility is coming to an end.

24 February 2026 marks the final day of the temporary arrangement permitting certain dual nationals to travel on a foreign passport without an ETA.

After that date, dual British citizens must comply fully with the updated documentation requirements.

Importantly, dual British nationals cannot use ETA as a substitute.

Understanding the Certificate of Entitlement (COE)

For those who do not carry a British passport, a Certificate of Entitlement serves as formal proof of a traveler’s right of abode in the UK and is not a short notice-solution.

• Cost: £589
• Issued for: A specific passport
• Renewal required: When the passport expires
• Processing times: Weeks, not days
• Applications typically take: Up to 8 weeks inside the UK; Around 3 weeks outside the UK following appointments

Additionally, Certificates of Entitlement are transitioning away from passport vignettes to digital records, reflecting broader border digitisation.

Can You Travel on an Expired British Passport?

The UK Home Office has suggested that expired British passports may sometimes be accepted by carriers as proof of citizenship.

That said, travelers should exercise caution. Carrier policies can vary, and a valid passport remains the safest and most reliable option.

Who Is Not Affected?

Travelers using a valid Irish passport are exempt from this requirement under Common Travel Area agreements.

Avoiding Last-Minute Travel Disruptions

This update has flown under the radar for many travelers, yet it affects a large global population of dual citizens.

If you are a dual British national with future UK travel:

• Review your passport validity now
• Renew early if needed
• Allow generous processing time
• Avoid relying on exceptions or expired documents

Planning ahead will prevent avoidable boarding issues and itinerary disruptions.

Need Guidance?

Documentation rules can be nuanced, particularly for travelers holding multiple citizenships. Early preparation is the best way to avoid boarding issues or travel delays.

If you have questions about documentation or upcoming UK itineraries, the Global Marine Travel team is happy to assist.