The UK Home Office has issued a critical travel advisory that will significantly impact thousands of dual citizens, including British-Nigerians, who frequently travel between their home countries and the United Kingdom. From Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the “loophole” that allowed some dual nationals to travel to the UK on their foreign passports will be firmly closed.
From that date, dual citizens must travel to the UK using either a valid British passport or present a certificate of entitlement confirming their right of abode; those without either document could be refused boarding by carriers or denied entry at the border. Previously, many dual nationals were allowed to travel on the foreign passport they preferred, often choosing the one with the longest validity or cheapest renewal fees, but that practice will end as part of the government’s transition to a fully digital immigration system anchored by Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) and eVisas that aim to tighten border security and modernise entry processes.
The changes have triggered a surge in applications for British passports and certificates of entitlement at British embassies and consulates worldwide, with travel agents reporting overwhelming demand as affected dual citizens try to secure the correct documentation ahead of the deadline. In countries like Australia and New Zealand, many dual nationals have expressed frustration and stress at the sudden urgency, with agents working late into the night to assist clients facing travel disruptions.
Under the new requirements, carriers such as airlines will be obligated to verify that travellers claiming British nationality hold the appropriate passport or certificate before boarding; failure to comply could result in denied boarding. The British government says the new system, which integrates ETAs for most visitors and stricter identity checks, will help prevent individuals who pose security risks from entering and will provide a clearer picture of immigration flows. British dual citizens whose other nationality usually allowed visa-free travel will now have to decide whether to renew or obtain a UK passport, apply for a certificate of entitlement at additional cost, or potentially renounce their UK citizenship if they choose to continue travelling on their other passport.
Authorities have urged dual nationals to check their citizenship status and apply early for the necessary documentation to avoid travel disruption, noting that the requirement to use a UK passport or certificate of entitlement is non-negotiable from February. The adjustment reflects broader global trends in border management and digital travel authorisation systems but has caught many dual citizens by surprise as they prepare for travel in the coming months.
