British Dual Nationals Can No Longer Enter The UK On Foreign Passports
Thousands of British dual nationals could face disruption to their UK travel plans under new passport rules coming into effect from February 25, 2026.
Under the changes, British and Irish dual citizens will no longer be allowed to enter the UK using a foreign passport. Instead, they must travel on a valid British or Irish passport, or hold a Certificate of Entitlement (COE) in their non-British passport confirming their right of abode.
The rule change has sparked frustration among dual nationals, particularly those with upcoming travel plans and limited time to secure new documents. British passport processing times can range from six to 13 weeks, and additional paperwork such as a UK birth or naturalisation certificate may also be required.
Foreign passport holders without British or Irish citizenship will need to apply for a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK.
The UK government has urged travellers not to book flights until their passport documentation is finalised, warning that passport numbers may change during the application process. Officials say the move is part of a broader shift toward a fully digitised and contactless UK border.
For dual nationals, the financial impact can be significant. British passport applications from overseas can cost several hundred pounds, Irish passports typically cost less, while a Certificate of Entitlement can exceed £1,000 when applied for outside the UK.
British dual nationals planning a trip to the UK should review their passport options as early as possible. Travelling on the wrong document could lead to missed flights, added expenses, or refusal of entry at the border.
How to Apply for a UK Passport from Abroad
Applying for a UK passport while living overseas is straightforward when you know the steps. From submitting your application online to tracking delivery, here’s a simple guide to renewing your UK passport from abroad.
- Apply Online
Start your application on the official GOV.UK passport renewal website. - Prepare What You Need
- Digital photo that meets UK passport photo requirements (taken at home or at a photo studio/booth)
- Your current or recently expired UK passport
- Payment method (credit or debit card)
- Contact details, including a valid email address and, for some services, a UK mobile number
- Complete the Online Form
Enter your personal details, passport history, and information from your old passport, such as the passport number and expiry date. - Upload Your Photo
Upload your digital photo. The system will automatically check whether it meets official standards. - Pay the Fee
Pay the passport fee online and choose optional secure delivery if available. - Send Your Old Passport
After submitting your application, you’ll receive instructions and a PEX reference number. Use this reference when sending your old passport and any additional documents (such as proof of a name change). - Track Your Application
Monitor the progress of your passport application using your PEX number on the GOV.UK website.
Are you affected by the rule change? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries
If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
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Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".
When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.
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