Possible update: Could the UK government be implementing new travel restrictions for individuals holding both British and foreign citizenship?
In a recent development, the Home Office has been urged to provide clarity on the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements for British dual nationals who do not possess a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. This situation has arisen following the extension of the ETA requirement to European passport holders.
Currently, British dual nationals have the freedom to choose which passport to use for travel in and out of the UK. However, the revised fact sheet suggests that those without a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement may face difficulties at the point of boarding or at the UK border.
The ETA is required for non-British and non-Irish nationals visiting the UK who do not need a visa. It is valid for two years, allowing multiple entries with stays up to six months each. For British dual nationals who do hold a valid British passport, they are generally exempt from the ETA requirement.
If a British dual national does not have a valid British passport but possesses a certificate of entitlement, they might still be considered eligible for entry under British citizenship provisions. However, the specific process for those without a valid passport or certificate is not detailed in the available information.
Many dual nationals have contacted the UK government for confirmation on whether they need an ETA and how to obtain one. The general advice for dual nationals who have a current, valid UK passport is to use it to travel into the UK.
The Home Office has stated that it will "make it clear" when the change will occur, but as of now, the proposed change does not have a specified date. The UK government website states that it cannot issue a certificate of entitlement in a non-British passport if the person holds a current British citizen passport. Obtaining a Certificate of Entitlement can be a costly and time-consuming process, costing £550, taking three weeks to obtain, and requiring an in-person visit to a British visa center.
The situation remains confusing for UK dual nationals without a valid UK passport. The Home Office has been asked to provide further clarity on whether UK dual nationals need an ETA if traveling on their "other" passport and how they can obtain one.
It is essential for British dual nationals to ensure they have appropriate documentation or apply for a British passport to avoid confusion at the border. If their dual nationality does not include British citizenship recognized by the UK, an ETA might be necessary based on their other nationality. The Home Office has been asked to address these questions on behalf of tens of thousands of UK dual nationals in Europe. As of now, there has been no response from the Home Office regarding these questions.
In light of the ongoing debate, British dual nationals without a valid British passport may need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for travel into the UK, as the Home Office grapples with providing clarity on this issue. This dimension of lifestyle and travel for dual nationals has become a point of concern, as the revised requirements could potentially impact their future journeys.
