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UK Confirms Feb. 25 ETA Enforcement, Requiring Dual Nationals to Use British Documents to Return

Full enforcement removes the option for dual citizens to rely on foreign passports, requiring UK proof of nationality at check-in.

Overview

  • From 25 February 2026, dual British citizens must present a valid UK passport or a certificate of entitlement or risk being denied boarding or entry.
  • British and Irish citizens are exempt from ETAs, but dual nationals cannot obtain an ETA on a foreign passport, closing the previous workaround.
  • Carriers will conduct pre-departure checks and face penalties of up to £2,000 for inadequately documented arrivals after the enforcement date.
  • Practical options include a UK passport (about £94.50 in the UK), a certificate of entitlement (around £589), or an emergency travel document (£125) for a single trip.
  • Travellers may enter on a foreign passport up to 24 February; Irish citizens remain exempt, and trade groups warn HGV drivers without visas will also need an ETA.