Dual citizen Britons without UK passport could be refused entry under rule change
Dual British citizens visiting the UK without a British passport may soon be refused entry due to new rules coming into force next month.
Under the changes, which will come into force on February 25, British citizens abroad must present a valid UK passport or authorization to prove their status when entering the country.
Previously, dual citizens were able to travel to the UK using non-British passports and prove their citizenship status using other documents if necessary.
The changes will apply to all British and Irish dual nationals abroad, including those living in any EU country, who will now have to pay around £100 if they want to return home.
A Home Office spokesperson said: “From 25 February 2026, all dual British nationals will need to produce a valid British passport or authorization to avoid delays at the border.
“Digitising the immigration system using ETAs is enabling millions of people to have a smoother travel experience to the UK. ETAs also give us greater power to stop those who pose a threat from setting foot in the country and give us a more comprehensive picture of immigration.”
What are the new rules?
The changes are part of the Home Office’s new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme; The plan will soon require visitors from countries that do not require a visa to travel to the UK to obtain an ETA before their arrival.
Since British and Irish citizens are exempt from ETA, they now need to travel with a British or Irish passport or present an authorization document.
Who is affected by the changes?
The new entry conditions will apply to all dual citizens living or traveling abroad. Citizens traveling on or before 24 February will still be able to travel to the UK with a valid non-UK passport.
How much will it cost?
A standard British adult passport costs £94.50, while an Irish passport costs €75. However, the fee for applying for a passport from abroad is slightly higher.
An authorization document, a document inserted into a foreign passport proving the holder can live and work in the UK, costs £589.
Why are these changes being made?
While there is no legal requirement for British citizens to travel with a British passport, pre-departure checks for travelers make it difficult to travel to the UK without a passport, the House of Commons briefing said.
It has been stated that the Home Office has been advising dual nationals entering the UK to travel with a British passport for months, but has not strictly enforced the requirement to give people time to adjust.
The statement said: “Some people question why they cannot use an expired British passport or other documentation, such as a naturalization certificate or proof of registration as a British citizen, to prove their right to residence and exemption from travel permits.
“These documents are not included in the Home Office’s document control guidance for transport providers. Carriers are unlikely to deviate from the guidance because they could be penalized for bringing inadequately documented passengers into the UK.”
