In brief
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry to the UK. It applies to certain nationals who do not require a visa to visit the UK. Currently, British citizens can travel to the UK using their non‑UK passport without needing an ETA.
From 25 February 2026, the UK will fully implement the ETA system for travellers from visa‑exempt countries, including the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and EU/EEA member states. As British citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement, they will no longer be able to travel to the UK using only their non‑UK passport.
From this date, British citizens must travel using a valid British passport or have a non‑UK passport containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode (physical or digital). Failure to travel with the correct documentation may result in being denied boarding or experiencing delays when travelling to the UK.
Key takeaways
From 25 February 2026, British dual citizens must be able to prove their right of abode in the UK before travel. Travelling solely on a non‑UK passport will no longer be sufficient, even when that passport would normally allow visa‑free travel. Although British dual citizens are exempt from ETA requirements, this exemption only applies where British citizenship can be verified. Therefore, travellers must carry appropriate documentation, such as a British passport or a valid Certificate of Entitlement.
Failure to travel with the correct documentation may result in denied boarding or travel disruptions.
Who is affected?
- British dual citizens travelling to the UK for any purpose
- Employers and organisations coordinating travel to the UK, including touring and events groups
- Anyone relying on a non-UK passport to travel to the UK despite holding British citizenship
In more detail
Requirements for British citizens
- British dual citizens cannot apply for an ETA, even when their other nationality would normally require or permit one.
- ETAs are only available to non‑British and non‑Irish nationals.
Mandatory travel documentation (from 25 February 2026)
British dual citizens must carry one of the following to demonstrate eligibility to travel without an ETA:
- A valid British passport (strongly recommended)
- A non‑UK passport containing a valid Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode (physical or digital) — British citizens can only apply for a Certificate of Entitlement if they do not hold a valid British passport, and this certificate cannot be held alongside a valid British passport
- An emergency travel document
A British nationality/citizenship certificate is not a travel document and cannot be used on its own to demonstrate the right of abode for boarding or entry to the UK.
Travellers who cannot present an acceptable document may be denied boarding by carriers as part of mandatory pre‑departure checks.
Carrier compliance and enforcement
Carriers will conduct mandatory digital pre‑departure checks to confirm that travellers either hold an approved ETA or meet the requirements for an ETA exemption.
Failure to present the correct documentation may result in the traveller being unable to board their flight or other carrier service. This represents a change from previous practice and removes the former flexibility that allowed some British dual citizens to travel to the UK using a non-UK passport alone.
Practical considerations for British dual citizens travelling to the UK on a non-UK passport
The ETA is not available to British dual citizens travelling to the UK on a non-UK passport. British dual citizens may be denied travel if their British citizenship cannot be verified prior to departure. Emergency travel documents may only be issued to British citizens in urgent or exceptional circumstances, and should not be relied upon for routine travel.
Recommended actions
For individuals
- Check the validity of your British passport in advance of travel
- Apply for or renew your British passport as soon as possible if you do not currently hold one or if it has expired
- Consider applying for a Certificate of Entitlement if obtaining a British passport is not possible within the required timeframe
- Use emergency travel documents only for urgent travel and where no other option is available
For organisations responsible for arranging travel
- Identify British dual citizens early, particularly those travelling for business, tours, performances or other organised activities
- Ensure all travellers hold valid proof of British citizenship before travel arrangements are made
- Plan for potential delays associated with British passport or Certificate of Entitlement applications
How we can assist
Our team can support individuals and organisations by doing the following:
- Assessing British citizenship and Right of Abode scenarios for dual nationals
- Advising on required travel documentation under the ETA system
- Assisting with Certificate of Entitlement applications
- Reviewing travel plans for corporate groups and touring and production teams
- Delivering tailored briefings for HR teams and event organisers
Natasha Riley, Tomoko Sasaki, Wendy Mortimer and Ying Li, Senior Immigration Specialists, have contributed to this legal update.