British Passport and Dual Citizenship: Critical Changes Coming in February 2026
Understanding the New UK Passport Requirements for Dual Citizens
A significant change is coming for British dual nationals travelling to the United Kingdom. Starting in February 2026, the UK government will enforce a strict rule that dual citizens must use their British passport to enter the country. This major policy shift, taking effect on 25 February 2026, will affect millions of dual citizens worldwide, including those from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and European Union countries.
Why This Change Matters
The new regulations are part of the UK’s rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, designed to modernise border control and enhance security. Dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship are exempt from needing an ETA. However, this exemption creates a practical challenge: There isn’t a specific legal requirement for British citizens to travel on a British passport but in practice pre-departure checks for UK-bound travellers make it difficult to travel to the UK without one.
What British Dual Citizens Must Do
Dual British citizens must have a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement when travelling to the UK. The government strongly advises dual British citizens to make sure they have a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement, to avoid problems like being denied boarding when travelling to the UK from 25 February 2026. Those without proper documentation may face additional identity checks and delays at passport control.
Impact on Travellers Worldwide
The UK passport rule change will not only impact Canadians and Australians with dual British citizenship but also travelers from countries where British dual citizenship is common, including the United States, New Zealand, Ireland, and European Union countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Many affected travellers have not used their British passport in decades, making the transition challenging for long-term expatriates.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for You
The UK allows dual citizenship, and you can become a British citizen and hold dual citizenship without needing to renounce your original nationality. However, if you plan to visit the UK after February 2026, immediate action is essential. Passport applications can be lengthy and costly, so experts recommend applying well in advance to avoid travel disruptions. This change represents a fundamental shift in how British dual nationals navigate international travel, emphasising the importance of proper documentation in an increasingly digital border control environment.