Significant changes to the United Kingdom's border security system are set to create new hurdles for Australian travellers who hold dual citizenship. From February 25, 2026, the enforcement of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme will alter how dual nationals must prepare for their journeys.
New Rules for Dual Passport Holders
While the process is simple for Australians with only an Australian passport, those who also hold British or Irish citizenship face a critical twist. Although their "right of abode" in the UK means they do not need to apply for an ETA, they must now present a valid British or Irish passport at check-in. Relying solely on an Australian passport will no longer be sufficient for entry.
The UK Home Office has issued a stark warning, advising dual British citizens to ensure they possess the correct documentation to avoid being denied boarding on flights, ships, or ferries bound for the UK. For those travelling with an expired UK passport, the alternative is to obtain a "Certificate of Entitlement for UK Right of Abode" (COE) placed in their valid foreign passport.
Options and Costs for Affected Travellers
The announcement has left many dual citizens scrambling to understand their choices, each carrying a significant financial cost. The primary options are:
- Renew a British Passport: For Australian residents, an adult British passport renewal starts from £120 (approximately $241 AUD), plus a £19 ($38) courier fee. Processing can take between six to thirteen weeks.
- Obtain a Certificate of Entitlement: This endorsement, which proves the right to live and work in the UK, costs £589 (around $1184 AUD) when applied for online from outside the UK. It is only valid for the lifespan of the passport it is attached to.
- Renounce British Citizenship: The formal and permanent step of giving up UK citizenship costs £482 (about $968 AUD). This process forfeits the right to live in the UK and access consular protection.
The UK government clarifies that travel on or before February 24, 2026 remains under current rules. However, the strict new regime takes full effect the following day.
Understanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
For the majority of Australian travellers without dual citizenship, the new system is designed to be swift. The ETA is a digital travel permission, not a visa, costing £16 ($32 AUD). Most applicants receive an automatic decision within minutes via the official UK ETA app. It allows multiple entries for stays up to six months over two years, or until the passport expires.
These sweeping changes are part of the UK's move towards a fully digitalised immigration system, aimed at speeding up and securing border processing for the millions of visitors it receives annually. Since its initial introduction in October 2023, over 20 million ETAs have already been granted.
For Australian dual citizens, the message is clear: check your passport validity well ahead of any planned travel to the UK in 2026 and ensure you have the correct, government-mandated proof of your right to enter.
