UK Dual Nationals May Be Denied Entry Without British Passport

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London: Thousands of British citizens who also hold another nationality are now rushing to secure valid British passports or official documents proving their right to return home, after new entry requirements came into force this week. From 25 February 2026, the UK Home Office will only allow dual nationals to enter the country with the proper documentation meaning a British passport, a valid Irish passport, or a passport containing a certificate of entitlement.

Previously, many people holding two nationalities could enter the UK using just their other passport for example from the United States, Australia or an EU state especially if that passport was from a visa-exempt country. That option has now been removed under the new system linked to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, part of efforts to digitise and tighten border checks.

Under the updated rules, carriers such as airlines and ferry companies are expected to deny boarding to anyone who cannot present the required British travel document, affecting travel plans for dual nationals flying, taking trains, or crossing by sea. Those without a British passport may instead obtain a certificate of entitlement for about £589, which must be attached to their foreign passport but can take weeks to process.

The changes have caught many dual citizens including those unaware of their British statusoff guard, prompting a rush to apply for passports before travel dates. Critics argue that the policy was poorly communicated and that families with children born abroad have been particularly disadvantaged by the sudden requirements.

Irish citizens remain exempt from the ETA process due to the Common Travel Area arrangement, meaning UK-Irish dual nationals can still use an Irish passport to enter the UK. However, British dual citizens without a UK passport must meet one of the new documentation conditions or face travel disruptions.

The Home Office defends the move as necessary for security and border data accuracy, aligning Britain’s entry checks with systems used by other countries such as the United States and Canada. Critics continue to call for better guidance and transitional support for those affected.