ETA rules change: What UK dual citizens must know before February 25, 2026

Millions of British citizens live abroad, enjoying the benefits of international life. For those holding dual nationality, however, the U.K. is about to tighten entry rules, potentially making travel more complex and expensive. Starting February 25, 2026, British and Irish dual nationals will face new requirements for entering the U.K., including limitations on using foreign passports without a Certificate of Entitlement.

Why Are the Rules Changing?

The U.K.’s new regulations are linked to the rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, similar to the U.S. ESTA. The ETA requires travelers from visa-exempt countries to pay £16 (about $22) for a digital permit valid for two years. This affects citizens of countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and EU/Schengen member states, allowing them to visit for up to six months for work or tourism.

For dual nationals entering the U.K. on their foreign passport, the ETA system introduces a complication: British and Irish dual citizens cannot obtain an ETA. This is why new rules now require them to either use their British or Irish passport or carry a Certificate of Entitlement alongside their foreign passport.

When Do the Changes Take Effect?

Currently, dual nationals can enter the U.K. on a foreign passport without an ETA. However, as of February 25, 2026, this option will no longer be available. Travelers must either present their British or Irish passport or obtain a Certificate of Entitlement, which costs nearly $800 at current exchange rates.

If you travel before the deadline without an ETA, you can remain in the U.K. after February 25 without an issue. On your next visit, however, compliance will be mandatory.

Who Will Be Affected?

For dual nationals who already have a valid U.K. passport, the change is a minor adjustment: simply ensure your passport is valid and use it to travel.

The more serious impact is for those who only hold a foreign passport and have no proof of British citizenship. These travelers cannot legally enter the U.K. without first obtaining a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. Individuals born abroad to British parents who have never held a U.K. passport must register as citizens and obtain documentation before traveling. Attempting to use an ETA with a foreign passport in this situation may lead to denial at immigration.

Options for Entering the U.K. as a Dual Citizen

Dual nationals have three main pathways for entering the U.K. under the new rules:

1. Use Your British or Irish Passport – A straightforward option. Renewal costs £94.50 (around $130) for a British passport and €75 (around $90) for an Irish passport, with processing times up to three weeks (longer if renewing from abroad).

2. Obtain a Certificate of Entitlement – This document proves your right of abode and allows travel with a foreign passport. The certificate costs £589 (approximately $800) and must be renewed alongside your passport.

3. Renounce British Citizenship and Travel Using ETA – While extreme, this option is feasible for those with no emotional or familial ties to the U.K. They can travel as a foreign national with an ETA permit.

Additionally, in emergency cases, travelers can apply for an emergency travel document valid for a single trip, costing £125 (about $170).

Do the Changes Affect Dual Citizenship Status?

It’s important to note that these changes do not affect citizenship itself. Dual nationality is still fully recognized by the U.K. The new rules strictly govern passport use and entry requirements, ensuring compliance with the ETA system while maintaining citizens’ rights to live and work in the country.

FAQ: U.K. Dual National Passport Rules 2026

Q1: What are the new U.K. dual national passport rules?
A1: Starting February 25, 2026, British and Irish dual nationals must enter the U.K. using their British or Irish passport. Alternatively, they can use a foreign passport only if accompanied by a Certificate of Entitlement.

Q2: Why are these rules changing?
A2: The changes coincide with the rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, similar to the U.S. ESTA, which requires visa-exempt travelers to buy a digital permit for entry into the U.K. Dual nationals cannot obtain an ETA with a foreign passport, prompting the new regulations.

Q3: Who is affected by the changes?
A3: Dual nationals who already hold a valid U.K. or Irish passport are minimally affected. Those who only have a foreign passport without proof of British or Irish citizenship will need a Certificate of Entitlement or must obtain a U.K. passport before traveling.

Q4: How much does a Certificate of Entitlement cost?
A4: The Certificate of Entitlement costs £589 (around $800) and must be renewed whenever the foreign passport is renewed.

Q5: Can I still travel using a foreign passport without a Certificate of Entitlement before February 25, 2026?
A5: Yes. If you enter the U.K. before the deadline without an ETA or certificate, you can stay until after February 25. However, for your next visit, compliance with the new rules will be mandatory.

Q6: What are my options if I don’t have a U.K. passport?
A6: There are three main options:

1. Apply for a U.K. passport and use it to travel.

2. Obtain a Certificate of Entitlement to use with your foreign passport.

3. Renounce British citizenship and travel as a foreign national with an ETA.
   In emergencies, travelers can request a one-time emergency travel document for £125 (about $170).

Q7: Do these rules affect dual nationality status?
A7: No. These rules only impact passport use and entry procedures. Dual citizenship rights to live, work, and reside in the U.K. remain intact.

Q8: How much does it cost to renew a U.K. or Irish passport abroad?
A8: A British passport renewal costs £94.50 (around $130), and an Irish passport renewal costs €75 (around $90). Costs may be higher if renewing from abroad, and processing times can vary.

Q9: What happens if I try to travel with only a foreign passport after February 25, 2026?
A9: Without a valid Certificate of Entitlement or a U.K./Irish passport, dual nationals will be denied boarding or refused entry into the U.K.

Q10: Can children born overseas to British parents travel under the old rules?
A10: Children born abroad who have never held a U.K. passport must register their citizenship and obtain a British passport before traveling. Using a foreign passport and ETA without registration could result in denied entry.