By Gilly Bachelor, Travel Expert

The UK Government has announced changes that may affect travellers who hold British citizenship and another nationality. From 25 February 2026, new UK entry rules will be fully enforced, and it’s important to understand how this affects you.

What’s changing

Airlines and ferry companies will be required to confirm that all passengers have the correct travel permission before boarding. Dual nationals must therefore show the appropriate British or Irish travel documents when travelling to the UK.

What this means for dual citizens

✔ If you are British + Irish

You may travel to the UK using either your British passport or your Irish passport.
You do not need to carry both.
Both give you automatic entry to the UK without an ETA.

✔ If you are British + any other nationality (not Irish)

You must travel to the UK using one of the following:

  • Your British passport, or
  • Your non-British passport with a Certificate of Entitlement (Right of Abode)

Travelling on your non-British passport alone will not be sufficient.

What is a Certificate of Entitlement?

A Certificate of Entitlement is an official sticker placed in a foreign (non-UK) passport that proves the holder has the Right of Abode in the UK — meaning they can live, work and enter the UK without restrictions.

It is mainly used by people who have the Right of Abode but do not have a valid British passport.

Full details and how to apply:
https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode

What happens if you don’t follow these rules

From 25 February 2026:

  • You may be refused boarding by your airline or ferry operator, or
  • You may face significant delays at UK Border Control while your status is checked.
What you should do now
  • If you are British + Irish, ensure at least one of your passports is valid — you can travel on either.
  • If you are British + any other nationality, make sure you have a valid British passport, or apply for a Certificate of Entitlement if you prefer to travel on your other passport.
  • Renew your British passport in good time if it has expired.

If you’re still not sure, we run a free travel advice line and can answer any and all questions you may have! Give us a call on 01902 288104, send us a message, or book an appointment.