UK Border: Dual Nationality & Entry Rules 2024

Dual British citizens are now required to use a UK passport to travel to Britain, a change that took effect Wednesday. While the British High Commission has issued temporary guidance allowing airlines to accept expired British passports (post-1989) at their discretion, some travelers are facing difficulties.

UK Passport Requirement for Dual Nationals

The new rule applies to citizens of both the UK and Ireland, requiring them to present a passport from one of those countries to enter Britain. Chris Betterton, a dual British citizen, described the change as an “absolute shambles” and criticized the “appalling communication” surrounding it.

Airlines may, at their own discretion, accept some expired British passports as alternative documentation, according to the British High Commission. Emergency travel documents are also available for citizens who urgently need to enter the UK.

However, the House of Commons library guidance indicates that airlines are unlikely to deviate from the new requirements due to potential penalties for transporting inadequately documented passengers.

Betterton, who moved from the UK in 2017, expressed concern about the need to travel quickly if his elderly parents become ill. He also highlighted the financial burden of obtaining UK passports for his entire family, especially compared to using their New Zealand passports.

The cost of a Certificate of Entitlement, an alternative document for dual citizens, is currently £589 (NZ$1330). Betterton advocates for a more affordable, lifelong certificate to alleviate the ongoing costs for dual nationals.

Thousands of New Zealand citizens with dual nationality have applied for UK passports since last month, many expressing frustration with the lack of clear communication regarding the change. NZ Post has also received complaints, with some applicants reporting delays in processing their applications.

UK MPs have called on the government to delay the enforcement of the new passport requirement.