British dual nationals without a valid British passport will be prevented from entering the UK under new rules that came into effect today, as the government enforces its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
New Entry Requirements for British Dual Nationals
British dual nationals will no longer be able to enter the UK using only a foreign passport. To board flights, ferries, or trains, they must present a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement, which costs £589, or risk being denied boarding.
Although British and Irish citizens are exempt from applying for an ETA, airlines are now required to check passengers have the correct documentation before departure. Non-visa nationals from 85 countries must also have an ETA before travelling, as part of the government’s move towards a fully digital border system.
British and Irish citizens have the right to live in the UK, but must prove this right when entering the border.
What Dual Nationals Need to Do
Dual nationals will need to present either a British passport or certificate of entitlement to enter the UK. Applying for a British passport costs £94.50, significantly less than the £589 cost of a certificate of entitlement.
The Home Office stated it has been advising dual nationals to ensure they have the correct documents to enter the UK since October 2024, and has been advertising the ETA changes since 2023. A spokesperson said, “Without [a British passport or certificate of entitlement], carriers cannot verify they are a British citizen, which may lead to delays or refused boarding.”
It is not possible to get an ETA or visa to enter the UK as a British citizen. Those who already have a physical certificate of entitlement will automatically receive a new digital version, but will need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to link it to their foreign passport.
Irish citizens can continue to use their Irish passport to enter the UK.
Why the Changes are Happening
ETAs are part of the government’s plan for a “more streamlined, digital immigration system” intended to speed up entry into the UK and reduce queues at the border. The system is also intended to be more secure and prevent unauthorized entry.
An ETA costs £16 and allows for multiple journeys and UK stays for up to six months, but is only valid for two years. The government plans to raise the cost to £20 in the future.
The changes are similar to those being made in the European Union, where non-EU citizens now need a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) authorisation to enter.
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