Here is some important information regarding a recent change made by the British Government that impacts customers who are British Citizens with Dual Nationality, as well as customers travelling on non-British Passports.
From 25th February 2026, it became a requirement that British Citizens with dual-nationality present a valid British/Irish passport to enter the UK or ensure their foreign passport is endorsed with a digital Certificate of Entitlement (CoE). You will no longer be able to present your foreign passport to gain entry, unless it is endorsed with a digital CoE. This must be obtained in good time prior to commencement of your holiday, if you intend to travel using this form of ID. British dual citizens will not be eligible to use or apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation. This means you cannot apply for an ETA on your foreign passport as an alternative to obtaining the CoE.
Airlines and carriers will deny boarding to passengers who cannot prove either their:
- i) British citizenship: via a valid passport (British / Irish) or Certificate of Entitlement;
or
- ii) ‘right to enter’ – via an ETA or digital immigration / work visa linked to their foreign passport (if not a dual citizen)
To check eligibility and apply for a certificate of entitlement (costs from £589) – https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/product/nationality-roa (This process typically takes around 8 weeks, though it may take longer in some cases)
To check eligibility and apply for a British passport (Costs from £88.50) – Apply online for a UK passport – GOV.UK (This process typically takes around 3 weeks, though it may take longer in some cases)
Please ensure you are able to obtain the appropriate documentation you require, prior to travel.
The above is for advisory purposes only and any customers intending to travel on passports issued by countries other than the UK, must confirm the applicable requirements (including any conditions affecting travel back to the UK) with the relevant embassy, high commission or consulate prior to travel.
We hope the above information is helpful if it applies to your circumstances.
