Rule Change - Dual British Nationals Travelling to the UK

There has been a very important rule change affecting British citizens who also hold another nationality.  From 25 February 2026, travellers to the UK must travel with either a valid UK passport which is highly recommended, a valid Irish passport or a foreign passport with a Certificate of Entitlement showing the travellers Right of Abode in the UK.  If the traveller does not hold a valid UK passport, then the advice is that they should apply for one as quickly as possible because following the rule change, they may not be allowed to board their transport to the UK without it or without a Certificate of Entitlement contained in their foreign passport.

It is fair to say that many people are already British citizens without even realising it and this can include those who were born in the UK or who have a parent with British citizenship, subject to meeting particular eligibility criteria.  It is very important that travellers to the UK who are dual British nationals take heed of the rule change and ensure that they are in possession of the correct document in order to safely enter the UK.  This could mean applying for a British passport renewal ahead of travelling and should this be the case, then the timescales to obtain the replacement passport will need to be factored into the travel arrangements.

It is also worth bearing in mind that children with automatic British citizenship but without a UK passport will also need to apply for and obtain a UK passport or a Certificate of Entitlement in order to travel to the UK.

It is worth bearing in mind that the processing times for a Certificate of Entitlement to the right of abode can be several weeks, if not longer.

It is also important for businesses to be aware of the important rule change as they can be faced with employees who find themselves being stranded and travellers facing interrupted travel to the UK, for example, for cross-border assignments.  The rule change therefore can have serious implications for both travellers and their employers.

For additional advice contact Sohan.Sidhu@ellisonssolicitors.com

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About Ellisons Solicitors:

Established for more than 250 years, Ellisons is AGA's law firm member based in East Anglia. A top 200 UK law firm, it is one of the region’s oldest, most established, and fastest growing firms and has a proven track record of providing clients with first class service and advice, enabling them to make the right decisions. The firm is also recognised as a leading law firm in the Legal 500. 

Ellisons advises businesses and individuals across the UK and beyond – aided by its membership of Alliott Global Alliance. 

The team at Ellisons provide advice and assistance in most areas of English law, including company law, commercial law, property law, dispute resolution, employment matters, family law and tax law.