The UK dual citizenship passport rules will change from February 2026, introducing new document requirements for some travelers entering the UK. For individuals who hold British citizenship alongside another nationality, these updates will affect how travel is planned and how entry is verified.
Understanding the changes early will help avoid delays, denied boarding, or unexpected costs.
What’s changing for dual citizens entering the UK
From 25 February 2026, British dual citizens will need to present specific documentation when travelling to the UK.
Accepted documents will be:
- A valid British passport, or
- A valid Irish passport, or
- A foreign passport accompanied by a Certificate of Entitlement
Travelling on a foreign passport alone will no longer be sufficient. Airlines and carriers will be required to check documentation prior to departure, meaning travelers may be unable to board if requirements are not met.
Why these changes are being introduced
These updates align with the UK’s rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system.
From the same date, travelers from 85 visa-free countries will be required to apply for an ETA and pay a £16 fee before travelling to the UK. This includes travelers from the US, Canada, Australia and EU countries.
British citizens are not eligible for an ETA. As a result, dual citizens travelling on a foreign passport will need alternative proof of their right to enter the UK, either through a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement.
Costs and considerations
Travelers who choose not to use a British passport will need to apply for a Certificate of Entitlement, which:
- Costs £589
- Must be renewed each time a new passport is issued
- Is linked to the traveler’s foreign passport
By comparison, a British passport currently costs £94.50 when applied for in the UK. Applications from overseas typically take longer and may involve additional fees, so planning ahead is recommended.
Guidance for British-Irish dual citizens
Travelers holding both British and Irish citizenship are exempt from these requirements. A valid Irish passport can continue to be used for entry to the UK, without the need for an ETA or Certificate of Entitlement.
When the new rules take effect
- 25 February 2026
- Coincides with the introduction of mandatory ETAs for visa-free travelers
- Enforcement will take place at check-in and boarding, not only at border control
Recommended next steps for travelers and travel managers
To reduce disruption, ALTOUR recommends:
- Reviewing which passport is currently used for UK travel
- Checking the validity of British passports well in advance of travel
- Applying early for renewals, particularly when based overseas
- Updating internal travel guidance and pre-trip checks for affected travelers
- Avoiding last-minute reliance on Certificates of Entitlement where possible
For organizations with internationally mobile employees, this change should be factored into travel policy updates and traveler communications during 2025.
What’s changing for UK travelers heading to the EU in 2026
UK passport holders travelling to EU countries will see two separate changes introduced in 2026.
Entry Exit System EES from April 2026
From April 2026, the EU will begin rolling out its Entry Exit System (EES) for non-EU travelers, including UK passport holders.
Under EES, travelers will be required to:
- Provide fingerprints
- Have a facial image captured
This will take place at the border on first entry into the EU and will replace the current practice of passport stamping. No application or pre-approval is required in advance. Travelers should, however, expect longer processing times at borders during the initial rollout period.
ETIAS visa waiver later in 2026
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt travelers, including UK passport holders. It is not a visa, but an online authorisation that must be approved before travel to these 30 European countries.
ETIAS is expected to launch in Q4 2026, following the rollout of the EU Entry Exit System.
Once ETIAS is live, travelers will need to:
- Complete an online application
- Pay a small fee
- Receive approval before departure
Until ETIAS is operational, UK travelers do not need to apply for or pay for a visa waiver to enter the EU.
If you’d like support reviewing how the UK dual citizenship passport rules impact your travelers and the expected changes to entering the EU, ALTOUR can help assess risk, update travel policies, and prepare communications to ensure travelers remain compliant and informed ahead of these upcoming changes.
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