New UK Border Rules: Dual Citizens Must Present British Passport or Certificate of Entitlement from February 2026

New Entry Requirements for Dual British Citizens

British embassies are reportedly receiving numerous inquiries following the United Kingdom's confirmation of new border entry rules for dual nationals, set to take effect from February 25, 2026. Under the updated regulations, dual citizens will be required to present either a valid British passport or a digital Certificate of Entitlement to exercise their UK citizenship at the border.

This significant policy shift means that British citizens holding dual nationality will no longer be able to enter the UK using only a foreign passport, a practice previously common for those from 'non-visa national countries'.

Understanding the New Documentation Mandate

The core of the new rule dictates that individuals who possess UK citizenship, whether solely or in conjunction with another nationality, must use specific documentation for entry. The acceptable forms include a valid UK passport, a valid Irish passport (for British and Irish dual nationals), or any other valid passport accompanied by a Certificate of Entitlement confirming the holder's right of abode.

The Home Office has been actively advising dual British citizens to ensure they possess the correct documentation to prevent issues such as being denied boarding when traveling to the UK. Airlines will face penalties for transporting passengers without the appropriate documents, leading to stricter passport verification at check-in.

Context: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System

These changes are intrinsically linked to the UK's broader implementation of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. While the ETA is mandatory for visitors from countries that do not require a visa for short stays, dual British citizens are exempt from needing an ETA. However, they cannot apply for an ETA using their foreign passport because they are not classified as 'visitors' under UK immigration law.

The Home Office states that dual British citizens who cannot produce a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement from the specified date will be subject to additional identity checks and may not be able to proceed through UK passport control until their British nationality is verified.

Options and Costs for Dual Nationals

Dual nationals now have clear options to ensure compliance:

• Obtain or renew a British passport: A standard adult British passport renewal costs approximately £94.50 (around $130) when applying online in the UK.
• Acquire a Certificate of Entitlement: This document, also known as a 'certificate showing right of abode', is typically affixed as a sticker in a foreign passport, though digital formats are being introduced. The cost for a Certificate of Entitlement is significantly higher, at approximately £589 (nearly $800). Previously, physical certificates needed renewal with each foreign passport, but digital versions may alter this requirement.

The new rules are expected to impact over a million individuals and have already prompted a surge in applications for the necessary documentation.