From Tomorrow, Foreign Passports Alone Won’t Cut It for Brits with Dual Nationality
Starting February 25, British travellers with dual nationality will no longer be allowed to enter the UK using only their foreign passport. Instead, they must carry a valid British or Irish passport.
If they don’t, the government could hit them with a hefty price tag — a £589 invoice for a Certificate of Entitlement just to step foot back on home soil.
Costly Paperwork and Confusion Spark Chaos Overseas
Many dual nationals have been caught off guard by the sudden change, scrambling last-minute to sort out expensive and complicated paperwork just days before their trips.
“This has created chaos,” an insider said. “Travellers only now realise the paperwork, cost, and timings involved – sometimes days before flying.”
The Certificate of Entitlement costs Australian dual nationals a staggering $1,130 AUD, compared to a British passport priced at $190 overseas. Those desperate to avoid the fees can even renounce their British citizenship — but it’ll set them back nearly $968.
Government Gives Minimal Grace as Families Face Heartbreaking Scenes
The rules have been listed on the government website since November 2025, but critics say communication has been ‘haphazard’. Until now, foreign passports with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) allowed entry without fuss.
The ETA scheme, introduced last year, costs between £10-£16 and permits multiple short stays over two years for citizens of visa-exempt countries.
However, the Home Office warns: both passports must have matching personal details, and airlines have the final say on boarding. Emergency travel documents remain an option but require additional identity checks.
Will Forster, Liberal Democrat shadow immigration minister, blasted the change: “Many dual nationals find themselves stranded abroad, facing huge costs and long waits just to get back home.” He urged the government to provide a grace period and affordable alternatives for those in heartbreaking situations.
What This Means for You
- Dual nationals must carry a valid British or Irish passport to enter the UK starting Feb 25.
- Foreign passports alone are no longer enough, even with a valid visa or ETA.
- Certificate of Entitlement costs £589 — a steep price for those without a British passport on hand.
- Emergency travel documents are available but come with extra identity hurdles.
- The government has offered no formal grace period, leaving many travellers in limbo.
Make sure you’re prepared and check your passport situation before travelling this year. Don’t get stung by the new rules and face footing a huge bill just to step back on British soil.
