UK Home Office Issues Reminder to British-Irish Dual Nationals Ahead of Full ETA Scheme Enforcement

Full Enforcement of UK ETA Scheme Approaches

The United Kingdom's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is set to go into full enforcement on February 25, 2026, marking a significant step towards a fully digitized border system. As this date approaches, the UK Home Office has issued a crucial reminder, particularly for British-Irish dual nationals, regarding their travel documentation.

The ETA scheme, first introduced in 2023, requires travelers from 85 visa-exempt countries to obtain digital authorization before boarding flights to the UK for short stays of up to six months. This includes visits for tourism, family, business, study, or transit. The primary goal of the ETA is to enhance border security by enabling advance screening of individuals and to streamline the entry process.

Exemption for British and Irish Citizens

Crucially, British and Irish citizens, including those holding dual nationality, are exempt from the requirement to obtain an ETA. This exemption also extends to individuals with a UK visa, permission to live, work, or study in the UK, or those residing in Ireland and traveling directly from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.

Proof of Citizenship Essential for Dual Nationals

Despite their exemption, British-Irish dual nationals are strongly advised to carry appropriate proof of their citizenship. The acceptable forms of documentation include:

• A valid British passport
• A valid Irish passport
• Another valid passport accompanied by a Certificate of Entitlement

This reminder comes as airlines will face fines for boarding inadequately documented passengers, leading to stricter pre-departure checks. Failure to present valid proof of British or Irish citizenship could result in significant travel disruptions, including delays, additional identity verification at the border, or even being denied boarding by airlines.

Application Process and Cost for Non-Exempt Travelers

For those who do require an ETA, the application process is conducted through the official UK ETA app. The cost of an ETA is currently £16, and it permits multiple journeys to the UK for a period of two years or until the holder's passport expires, whichever comes first. While most applications receive an automatic decision within minutes, travelers are advised to allow up to three working days for processing.