New UK Travel Laws: Mandatory Documentation for British Dual Nationals Starts Today

British dual nationals must now present a UK passport or digital certificate before boarding transport to the United Kingdom.

From today, the UK will strictly enforce documentation requirements for British dual nationals returning from abroad. This guide outlines the essential shift from using foreign passports to the mandatory requirement of a British passport or digital certificate. For many years, British dual nationals from "non-visa" countries, such as the US or EU member states, have often travelled to the UK using only their non-British passports. However, the Home Office has now officially ended these transitional arrangements. The UK government has implemented these changes primarily to modernise and streamline its borders as part of a wider overhaul of the immigration system. This shift moves the UK toward a "universal permission to travel scheme," which requires every individual to have verified permission to enter the country or a confirmed exemption before they even board their transport. These passport rules mean that you must now prove your "right of abode" with specific documents to avoid being denied boarding by your airline or transport carrier.

Why the rules are changing now

The change is primarily driven by the nationwide rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. While international visitors now require this digital permission to enter the UK, British citizens are exempt. However, because dual nationals are ineligible to apply for an ETA, they must instead present a British travel document to confirm they do not require immigration permission.

Essential documents for entry

You must demonstrate your right of abode using one of two specific documents to be allowed to travel.

1. Valid British Passport

   A current British passport is the standard and most straightforward way to prove your status. For an adult online application, the cost is approximately £94.50.

   
   

2. Certificate of Entitlement

   If you choose to travel on a foreign passport, it must be linked to a Certificate of Entitlement. This is a more expensive option, costing £589 and is issued in a fully digital format managed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

Exceptions

Important Exceptions and Urgent Travel Holders of valid Irish passports remain exempt from these changes and may continue to travel as usual. For those with an urgent need to travel who lack a current UK passport, the Home Office has indicated that carriers may, at their own discretion, accept an expired British passport as alternative evidence of citizenship. Alternatively, individuals may apply for an emergency travel document if they cannot renew their passport in time.

According to the House of Commons Library, the Home Office is advising British dual citizens to ensure they possess a valid UK passport, an Irish passport, or a certificate of entitlement if travelling on or after 25 February 2026. The warning that travellers "may not be able to board their transport to the UK" without these documents is the official position of the Home Office as it begins to fully enforce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements.

Check before you fly

Ensure your journey home is seamless by verifying your documentation requirements on the official government website: https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode.

These new regulations mark a significant modernisation of the UK border. While the shift to a digital system aims for long-term efficiency, the immediate responsibility falls on dual nationals to ensure they hold the correct papers. Avoid the risk of being stranded abroad by securing your British passport or digital certificate today.