LONDON – The United Kingdom (UK) is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visitors from 85 visa-free countries starting today, 25 February 2026.
While the scheme is designed to improve border security and speed up immigration checks, it has created a serious problem for dual nationals — people who hold both British citizenship and another nationality.
Under the new rules, dual nationals cannot apply for an ETA, but they also cannot enter the UK using only their non-British passport.
Instead, they must travel with either a valid British passport or a certificate of entitlement. Many do not have these documents because they were never previously required to use them when returning to the UK.
The ETA, which costs £16 and is valid for up to two years, is mandatory from 25 February for most travellers who previously entered the UK without a visa, including citizens of countries such as United States and Australia. Airlines will digitally check passengers’ travel permission before boarding.
For dual nationals, the issue is practical and financial. A British passport costs about £100, while a certificate of entitlement costs £589, and both can take weeks to obtain. Without one of these documents, they risk being denied boarding or refused entry.
Previously, dual nationals could travel freely on their other passport.
The new system removes that flexibility, leaving some scrambling to secure documentation simply to return home.
