Dual Nationals Face New Hurdles Under Britain’s Travel System — Entry Guide 2026

Published on February 25, 2026

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For millions of travellers who once booked spontaneous trips to Britain without pre-travel paperwork, the journey now begins long before the airport. The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is officially in force, requiring visitors from 85 previously visa-exempt countries to obtain digital permission before departure. For families planning sightseeing in London, professionals attending meetings in Manchester, or students visiting for short courses, preparation has become more important than ever.

According to official information published on GOV.UK, the ETA forms part of the UK government’s transition to a fully digital and more secure border system. While the programme launched in October 2023, enforcement became mandatory from 25 February 2026.

What Is the UK ETA?

An ETA is a digital authorisation linked electronically to a traveller’s passport. It allows eligible visitors to travel to the UK for:

• Tourism
• Business visits
• Short-term study
• Transit requiring border control clearance

It is valid for up to two years, or until the passport expires, and permits multiple visits. Each stay can last up to six months.

Travellers from countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada and most European nations now require an ETA if they do not already need a visa. Those who normally require a visa must continue applying for one; they do not need an ETA in addition.

British and Irish citizens remain exempt, as do individuals with settled or pre-settled status. Certain school group exemptions also apply.

How to Apply for an ETA

The Home Office recommends using the official UK ETA mobile app available via Apple App Store or Google Play, or applying through GOV.UK.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Download the official ETA app or visit GOV.UK.
2. Enter passport and contact details accurately.
3. Upload a compliant digital photograph.
4. Answer security and background questions.
5. Pay the £16 application fee.
6. Await digital confirmation linked to your passport.

The government indicates most applications receive automatic decisions within minutes, though travellers are advised to apply at least three working days before departure. A fee increase to £20 has been proposed but is not yet in force.

If an application is refused, applicants cannot appeal and must instead apply for a standard visa.

How Is the System Enforced?

Airlines, ferry operators and rail services now use automated Home Office systems to confirm whether passengers hold valid digital travel permission. Travellers may be denied boarding if their ETA or visa status cannot be verified.

Although the ETA is digitally linked and no printed document is required, the government suggests keeping confirmation records for reference.

It is important to note that ETA approval does not guarantee entry. Border Force officers retain authority to refuse entry if concerns arise during passport control.

Impact on Business Travellers

Corporate visitors travelling to London’s financial sector, Birmingham’s trade fairs, or Edinburgh’s technology conferences must ensure ETA approval is secured before travel.

Potential risks include:

• Missed meetings due to denied boarding
• Additional rebooking expenses
• Delays in project timelines

Travel managers are encouraged to incorporate ETA checks into standard booking procedures.

Impact on Leisure Tourists

Holidaymakers planning UK city breaks, countryside tours or family reunions must also comply. Those transiting through the UK and passing passport control require an ETA, while airside transit passengers who do not pass through border control are generally exempt.

Families should remember that every passport holder, including children, needs an individual ETA.

Challenges for Dual Nationals

Dual nationals — individuals who hold British citizenship alongside another nationality — face specific complications. They cannot apply for an ETA.

Instead, they must present either:

• A valid British passport
• A digital Certificate of Entitlement attached to their non-British passport

A British passport currently costs around £100 for adults, while a Certificate of Entitlement costs approximately £589. Processing times may extend several weeks.

Previously, many dual nationals re-entered the UK using only their foreign passport. Under the new system, failure to present British documentation could result in denied boarding.

Government representatives have indicated that public communication campaigns began in 2023 to inform travellers of these changes.

Comparison with Other Countries

The ETA model mirrors systems used internationally. For example:

• Canada operates an eTA system costing approximately CAD $7.
• The United States uses ESTA, currently priced higher than the UK’s ETA.

Digital pre-screening has become standard practice across many developed travel markets.

Key Points at a Glance

• ETA mandatory for 85 visa-exempt countries
• Costs £16 and valid for two years
• Required for tourism, business and certain transit
• Airlines responsible for documentation checks
• Dual nationals must use British passport or entitlement certificate

Additional Travel Tips

Travellers should also:

• Check passport validity before applying
• Review travel insurance coverage
• Monitor GOV.UK for rule updates
• Keep digital copies of all travel documents

A New Era for Britain’s Border

For travellers who have long viewed Britain as an easy weekend hop or a quick business stopover, the ETA introduces a modest but important extra step. It represents part of a broader global shift toward digital border management.

For families reuniting across continents or executives negotiating international deals, the stakes are practical and personal. A few minutes spent securing digital approval can prevent hours of stress at check-in desks.

As Britain advances into its digital border era, informed preparation ensures journeys remain smooth. With the right documentation in place, travellers can focus less on paperwork and more on what truly matters — exploring historic streets, strengthening business ties, and creating lasting memories across the United Kingdom.