A significant shift is coming for British citizens holding dual nationality. Starting next week, new Home Office rules will dictate how they enter the United Kingdom, potentially creating unexpected hurdles for travel.
The core of the change revolves around proof of citizenship. Dual citizens will now be required to enter the UK using their British passport, or obtain a costly “certificate of entitlement” to accompany their other passport. This impacts anyone who previously relied on their non-British passport for entry.
The financial implications are stark. While a standard British passport costs £94.50 to process online, the certificate of entitlement carries a hefty price tag of £589. This represents a substantial increase in cost for those who frequently travel using their other nationality’s passport.
These changes coincide with the introduction of a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for all non-visa visitors to the UK. This applies to everyone except British and Irish citizens, further complicating travel for dual nationals who may be ineligible for the ETA based on their other citizenship.
The Home Office defines dual nationals broadly, encompassing those who acquired dual citizenship at birth, individuals born in the UK who later gained another nationality, and naturalized British citizens who retain their original citizenship. This wide definition means a large number of people will be affected.
For those already abroad, a temporary solution exists: applying for an emergency travel document at a British embassy. However, this is a reactive measure, and proactive preparation is strongly advised.
Standard British passport costs vary depending on application method. Applying online costs £94.50 for adults and £61.50 for children, while postal applications are slightly more expensive at £107 and £74 respectively. Overseas applications also incur higher fees.
Passports issued after 2018 are generally valid for ten years, but processing times can vary. Within the UK, expect around three weeks, though this can extend if further information is required. Applications from abroad may take longer.
Airlines are now responsible for pre-departure checks, and while technically British citizens aren’t *required* to use their British passport, the Home Office warns it will become increasingly difficult to enter without one. Some airlines, like Ryanair, may accept expired British passports, but ultimately, the decision rests with the carrier.
The situation is different for Irish citizens. Thanks to the Common Travel Area agreement, they retain the right to live and work freely in Britain and are exempt from the ETA requirement, able to travel with just their Irish passport.
The reaction to these changes has been mixed. Some, like maths lecturer Cesare who naturalized as a British citizen after moving from Italy, feel everyone will ultimately bear the cost of these new measures. He points out the ripple effect, extending beyond simple “visitor” status.
Others suggest the UK is simply aligning itself with international standards, mirroring systems like the US ESTA or the upcoming EU ETIAS. Some dual citizens already maintain both passports and see no issue, emphasizing the importance of staying organized.
