26/02/2026
ETA TRAVEL PERMIT UPDATE: If you are a British dual citizen planning to travel to the UK and do not have a valid UK passport, there is an important new temporary concession to be aware of!
With the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rules now in effect, the requirements for proving your right to travel have changed.
The "Expired Passport" Option
Typically, a valid UK or Irish passport is necessary to board your flight. However, new temporary guidance allows airlines to permit you to travel if you have:
- An expired UK passport (issued in 1989 or later).
- A valid foreign passport from an ETA-eligible country.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Both passports must contain matching personal details.
Since this option is "discretionary," airlines have the final say on whether you can board the flight.
📍 Travelling from Ireland?
- To Northern Ireland: No documents are required.
- To England, Scotland, or Wales: You may need to provide proof of identity (such as an expired passport or citizenship certificate) if requested by Border Force.
💡 Pro-Tip
While this temporary rule is helpful for last-minute travel, the Home Office still recommends that you apply for a valid UK passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to avoid any issues at the gate.
If you have questions about your citizenship status or what documents you need, feel free to drop a comment below or tag a fellow dual citizen who might find this information useful! 👇