Major Passport Rule Change for Dual British Citizens Takes Effect This Week
A significant new travel regulation impacting more than 1.2 million people comes into force on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Under this overhaul, dual national citizens will no longer be permitted to use their foreign passport when entering the United Kingdom.
Strict Documentation Requirements for Entry
From this date forward, all dual British citizens must present either a valid British passport or a certificate of entitlement to border officials to gain entry into the country. The certificate of entitlement, which costs £589, is attached to the passport and serves as official proof of British citizenship for those without a current UK passport.
A Home Office spokesperson clarified the policy, stating: "From February 25, 2026, all dual British citizens will need to present either a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement to avoid delays at the border." The spokesperson emphasized that this requirement aligns with the documentation standards for all British citizens.
Political Criticism and Public Concern
The rule change has sparked criticism from political figures and concern among affected travelers. Liberal Democrat spokesperson for immigration and asylum, Will Forster, along with 23 other Lib Dem MPs, signed a letter to Birmingham and Labour Party MP Shabana Mahmood, arguing the changes are badly-communicated and ill-thought-out.
The letter stated: "It is unacceptable that British citizens could be penalised. No British citizen should be denied the right to come home simply because of administrative changes." The MPs urged the government to introduce a grace period to protect those impacted.
Dual national Kara Przybylski from Brisbane, who does not possess a British passport, expressed frustration: "It sucks for people who have flights booked. The government should have allowed more time before it comes into effect."
Home Office Guidance and Alternatives
The Home Office acknowledged this represents a significant change for both carriers and travelers but noted that public information has been available since October 2024. A substantive communications campaign regarding the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has been running since 2023.
An official explained: "We have been clear on requirements for dual British citizens to travel with a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement. At their own discretion, carriers can accept an expired British passport as alternative documentation."
Additionally, individuals who previously held a British passport can apply for an emergency travel document if they urgently need to enter the UK. Without the correct documentation, carriers cannot verify British citizenship, which may lead to delays or refused boarding.
The Sun newspaper reports that approximately 1.2 million passport holders will be affected by this policy shift, which aims to standardize entry procedures but has raised concerns about accessibility and communication.
