New UK Entry Rules for Dual Citizens: What Changes on 25 February 2026
British and Irish dual citizens living abroad face significant changes to UK entry requirements from 25 February 2026. Here's what you need to know about the new ETA enforcement rules.
Key Changes Coming 25 February 2026
The UK Home Office is tightening entry requirements for British and Irish dual citizens as part of its digital border modernisation. From 25 February 2026, the grace period allowing dual nationals to enter the UK using their non-British passport ends.
If you hold British or Irish citizenship alongside another nationality, these changes directly affect how you travel to the UK.
What's Changing?
Current Rules (Until 24 February 2026)
During the transition period, British and Irish dual citizens travelling from countries like Australia, Canada, or EU member states can:
- Enter the UK using their non-British passport from an ETA-eligible country
- Confirm their British status at the border using expired documents or naturalisation certificates
- Access e-gates in some circumstances
New Rules (From 25 February 2026)
After the deadline, you must present one of the following:
- A valid British passport - The most straightforward option
- A valid Irish passport - For Irish dual citizens
- A certificate of entitlement - Placed in your foreign passport
Critical point: British and Irish dual citizens cannot apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The ETA system explicitly excludes those with British or Irish citizenship rights.
Who Is Affected?
These changes primarily impact:
- British-Australian dual citizens living in Australia
- British-Canadian dual citizens living in Canada
- British-EU dual citizens living in Europe
- British nationals who've acquired citizenship in New Zealand, South Africa, or other Commonwealth countries
- Irish dual citizens living in visa-exempt countries
If you've lived abroad for years and let your British passport expire, you'll need to take action before February 2026.
What You Need to Do
Option 1: Renew Your British Passport
The simplest solution for most dual citizens.
- Cost: £108 (standard adult passport from overseas)
- Processing time: Up to 10 weeks from outside the UK
- Validity: 10 years
Apply through the UK government's passport service well ahead of any planned travel.
Option 2: Apply for an Irish Passport
If you're an Irish citizen (including through descent):
- Cost: €75 (standard adult passport)
- Processing time: Varies, typically 6-8 weeks
- Validity: 10 years
Irish passports provide visa-free access to the UK with no additional requirements.
Option 3: Certificate of Entitlement
For those who prefer to travel on their foreign passport:
- Cost: £589 when applying from outside the UK or Ireland
- Important: Must be renewed each time you get a new passport
- Processing time: Can take several weeks
This option is significantly more expensive and less practical for most travellers.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If you arrive at the UK border without valid documentation after 25 February 2026, you may face:
- Denial of boarding by airlines and carriers
- Loss of e-gate access at UK airports
- Extended questioning and delays at border control
- In worst cases, refusal of entry
Carriers face penalties for transporting passengers without proper documentation, so expect stricter checks at departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my Australian/Canadian/EU passport?
Yes, but only if it contains a valid certificate of entitlement. Your foreign passport alone won't be sufficient.
What if my British passport expired?
You'll need to renew it. Expired British passports can no longer be used as proof of citizenship at the border after 25 February 2026.
Does this affect my citizenship rights?
No. These changes are about documentation requirements for entry, not your underlying citizenship status. Your British citizenship remains valid.
What about children with dual citizenship?
The same rules apply. Children will need a valid British or Irish passport, or a certificate of entitlement in their foreign passport.
I'm just transiting through the UK. Do these rules apply?
If you're passing through UK border control, yes. Airside transit without clearing immigration may have different requirements.
Timeline and Preparation
| When | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Now | Check your British passport expiry date |
| 8-10 weeks before travel | Apply for passport renewal if needed |
| 25 February 2026 | New rules take full effect |
Why These Changes?
The UK Home Office states that digitising the immigration system through ETAs creates a more seamless travel experience and enhances border security. The changes ensure consistent documentation requirements across all travellers.
However, for long-term expatriates who've integrated into their adopted countries, maintaining a British passport solely for occasional UK visits represents an additional administrative burden and cost.
Our Recommendation
If you're a dual citizen planning any UK travel in 2026 or beyond, renew your British passport now. The £108 cost is far less than the £589 certificate of entitlement, and a valid passport provides flexibility for the next decade.
Don't wait until the February deadline approaches—passport processing times increase during busy periods, and you don't want travel plans disrupted by documentation issues.
For those visiting family or conducting business in the UK, ensure your travel documents are in order well before your trip. Use our document tools to prepare supporting materials like flight itineraries and accommodation confirmations for your journey.