UK Overhauls Passport Rules for Dual Nationals, Sparking Travel Concerns
British dual nationals are facing new requirements when entering the UK, as sweeping changes to immigration rules come into effect on . Under the revised system, individuals holding both British and another nationality will no longer be able to rely solely on their non-British passport to enter the country.
The changes, described by the government as a move to “streamline and modernise the UK border,” require dual nationals to present either a valid British passport or a new digital certificate of entitlement. Without one of these documents, they could be denied entry, even if they have lived in the UK for decades.
The shift has caught many off guard, with some dual nationals expressing anger and concern. Jelena, a British-Latvian citizen who has resided in the UK for 16 years, is among those facing potential travel disruptions. She learned of the changes recently while preparing for a trip to South America and fears being unable to return home. “It’s a betrayal,” she reportedly said, reflecting the sentiment of many in similar situations.
Currently, British dual nationals with a nationality from a country not requiring a UK visa can travel to the UK using their foreign passport. This practice will end on . The new rules apply regardless of whether the dual national is eligible for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which is being rolled out as part of the broader digitisation of the immigration system.
Obtaining a British passport or the certificate of entitlement is not automatic upon gaining citizenship. Both documents require a separate application process and involve costs. A British passport currently costs around £100 for adults, while the certificate of entitlement carries a significantly higher price tag of £589. Both can take several weeks to obtain, creating a potential hurdle for those with imminent travel plans.
The Home Office guidance states that British citizens are expected to travel using a valid British passport. While entry cannot legally be refused to a British citizen, officials warn that attempting to enter the UK with only a foreign passport may lead to additional checks and potential delays. Carriers, such as airlines and ferry operators, may also deny boarding to passengers lacking the required documentation.
The changes have prompted questions about the impact on foreign-born children with British citizenship. Concerns have been raised that these individuals, who may not have previously needed a British passport, could be denied entry if their parents attempt to use a foreign passport on their behalf.
Campaigners have also voiced concerns that the new rules may disproportionately affect women who have changed their names through marriage and may not have updated their British passports accordingly. The Guardian reported that the rules are “discriminatory against women,” citing potential difficulties for those whose passport names do not match their current identification.
The implementation of these changes coincides with the full enforcement phase of the UK’s ETA system. While British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from the ETA requirement itself, they are still subject to the new passport rules. The government maintains that the changes are necessary to enhance border security and streamline the immigration process, but for many dual nationals, the prospect of being denied entry to their home country is causing significant anxiety and disruption.
