Dual Citizens Warned To Check Documents As UK Enforces New ETA Travel Rules

Travellers heading to the UK without the right paperwork could now be stopped before they even board, as the government begins fully enforcing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.

From 25th February, visitors from 85 countries who previously did not need a visa, including the United States, Canada, Australia and France, must have an approved ETA before travelling. Airlines, rail operators and ferry companies are now required to check passengers have valid permission to travel, meaning some could be turned away at check-in.

An ETA costs £16, allows multiple trips, and is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first. It covers short stays of up to six months for tourism, business or study. The government has said it plans to increase the fee to £20 in future.

The system, which was first introduced in October 2023, had not been strictly enforced until now. Ministers say the move is part of efforts to modernise border controls and strengthen security.

Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp said: "The ETA scheme is a vital part of our work to strengthen the UK’s border security, helping to deliver a more efficient and modern service that works for both visitors and the British public. I’d urge anyone wanting to travel to the UK to ensure they are travel ready and have the right permission, to make their journey much smoother."

The authorisation is linked digitally to a traveller’s passport, so there is no need to show a paper document at the border. Most applications are processed within minutes through the official app, although travellers are advised to apply at least three working days before departure. If an application is refused, there is no right of appeal and the individual must apply for a visa instead.

Even with an approved ETA, entry is not guaranteed. Border officials still have the final say.

The changes have created particular difficulties for British dual nationals who do not hold a British passport. Because British citizens cannot apply for an ETA or visa to enter the UK, dual nationals must now present either a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. Without one, carriers may refuse boarding.

A British passport costs £94.50 for adults, while a Certificate of Entitlement costs £589. The certificate links a person’s right to live in the UK to their foreign passport. Those who already hold a physical certificate will receive a digital version but must set up a UK Visas and Immigration account to link it to their passport.

Previously, many dual nationals were able to travel on their non-British passport alone, although they sometimes faced delays at the border while their citizenship was confirmed. British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement, but they must still prove their status when travelling. Irish passport holders can continue to enter the UK as before.

A Home Office spokesperson said: "Without [a British passport or certificate of entitlement], carriers cannot verify they are a British citizen, which may lead to delays or refused boarding."

The government says the ETA is a step toward a fully digital immigration system and a more secure border. Since its launch, more than 19 million ETAs have been issued, generating hundreds of millions of pounds that ministers say will be reinvested into border and immigration services.

The UK’s system mirrors similar programmes abroad, including the US ESTA and Canada’s electronic travel authorisation, as countries increasingly require advance digital clearance for visa-free visitors.

Anyone planning a trip to the UK is being urged to double-check their documents before heading to the airport.