Do dual British-Australians need an Electronic Travel Authorisation to enter the UK?

No. A British citizen entering the UK as British does not need an Electronic Travel Authorisation. If you hold dual nationality, airlines will expect a valid UK passport, or a certificate of entitlement in your Australian passport, to confirm your right of abode before boarding.

What happens if I only bring my Australian passport for a UK flight?

You may be denied boarding. Airlines are required to verify that dual British citizens enter as British. Without a valid UK passport or a certificate of entitlement, check‑in systems can flag you, and staff may refuse travel to avoid fines for carrying inadmissible passengers.

How much does the certificate of entitlement cost and what is it?

It is a vignette placed in a foreign passport that confirms right of abode in the UK. The certificate of entitlement fee is £589. It is not a passport. It serves as proof when your UK passport is unavailable, allowing airlines to verify your status before they let you board.

Can children with dual citizenship travel on a non‑UK passport to Britain?

Children who are British citizens are expected to enter as British. Airlines may require a child’s UK passport or a certificate of entitlement in the other passport. Parents should add the child’s UK passport details to the booking and bring originals to check‑in to avoid last‑minute denials.

Law and Government

UK Dual Passport Rule February 21: Airline Check-In Risks, £589 Fee

ByDanny Kontos February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

From 25 February, most dual nationals must enter the UK as British, a change that puts british passport dual citiz travellers under new checks at airline counters. If you cannot present a valid UK passport, you may need a certificate of entitlement that costs £589. Airlines must verify eligibility before boarding, which can mean last‑minute denials. For Australians with UK ties, we outline the UK passport rules for dual nationals, carrier risks this week, and practical steps to avoid disruption.