Who needs a British or Irish passport to enter the UK after 25 February 2026?

Dual British/Irish citizens must use a UK or Irish passport, or show a valid Certificate of Entitlement in another passport. Airlines will not accept an Australian passport alone for dual citizens. Australians without UK citizenship can still travel on an Australian passport subject to standard UK entry rules.

What is a Certificate of Entitlement and when is it used?

A Certificate of Entitlement is proof of right of abode in the UK, issued for insertion into a foreign passport. Dual citizens without a current UK passport can use it to enter the UK. Apply well before travel and carry the same passport that holds the certificate.

Do UK ETA changes apply to dual British/Australian citizens?

No. If you are a British citizen, you must present a UK passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to assert your right of abode. An ETA is for eligible non-visa travellers and does not replace citizenship proof. Australians without UK citizenship should follow ETA or visa rules.

What should investors watch over the next quarter?

Track airline disclosures on denied boardings, rebooking volumes and on-time performance. For travel agencies, monitor call wait times, support minutes per booking and uptake of document-check services. For insurers, watch claim frequency and wording updates on document-related exclusions. Commentary in late-February to April updates will be revealing.

Law and Government

January 18: UK Dual-Citizen Rule Puts British Passports in Focus for Aussies

ByDanny Kontos January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

From 25 February 2026, dual British/Irish citizens must enter the UK using a UK or Irish passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. This shift puts british passports in focus for many Australians with UK ties. With 635,000 annual Aussie visitors and a large UK-born resident base, cancellations and processing backlogs could build. We see near-term disruption for airlines, travel agents and insurers as denied boardings and document checks affect AU–UK travel. Here is what changes, who is affected, and the risks and opportunities for investors.