British nationals with dual nationality

If, like me, you hold dual nationality, you may want to look at the expiry dates of your current passports. 

As many people know, travellers to the UK now need ETAs - Electronic Travel Authorisation, before they enter the UK.

As a British national, you do not of course need an ETA. 

However, if you are accustomed to travelling on your other passport - perhaps you are a European national and travel with that when you are visiting Europe - you must ensure that you are carrying your British passport to reenter the UK. Your British passport must also be valid (i.e. not expired). 

You are able to obtain a certificate of entitlement - albeit this is more expensive than obtaining a passport. 

The Guardian has also suggested that renunciation of a nationality may be an option. As an immigration lawyer, this is a very drastic and inadvisable route. Think carefully before renunciation!

The Home Office has warned that you may not be able to board your transport without a valid UK passport even if you have your other passport with you. 

This is valid from 25 February 2026.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to get in touch.