Silvia Avvertenza, senior operations manager at tour operator Rayburn Tours, explains what the new dual citizenship passport rules mean for pupils and staff travelling overseas.
From 25th February, new UK entry rules for dual British and Irish nationals will come into effect – this is a vital update that may impact upcoming school and group trips abroad.
These changes are part of the UK’s wider Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, and while they won’t affect most British travellers, they do matter for schools and groups that include students or staff with dual nationality. Understanding the rules early will help ensure a smooth journey for everyone, so read below to find out more.
What are the current rules?
If you’re travelling before 25th February, the rules for entering the UK are more flexible:
- Dual British citizens can travel to the UK on a non-UK passport without an ETA or a Certificate of Entitlement.
“If you are a group leader, I suggest adding one simple question when collecting passport details from your group members: ‘Does anyone hold a British or Irish passport as well as another nationality?’”
Silvia Avvertenza, Rayburn Tours
What’s changing from 25th February?
From this date, UK border checks will be stricter for dual nationals. To enter the UK as a dual British or Irish citizen, travellers must present one of the following:
- A valid British OR Irish passport.
- A valid passport from another country with a Certificate of Entitlement.
Other documents will NOT be accepted, including:
- Old or expired passports.
- Alternative photo ID.
Without one of the approved documents, travellers may not be allowed to enter the UK.
Who in your school group is impacted by this?
Dual British citizens include:
- People born in the UK who later gained another nationality.
- People who become British through naturalisation or registration.
- People who have held dual nationality since birth.
Silvia from tour operator Rayburn Tours said: “If you are a group leader, I suggest adding one simple question when collecting passport details from your group members: ‘Does anyone hold a British or Irish passport as well as another nationality?’
“If yes, make sure they plan to travel with their British or Irish passport. Please remember that these changes only affect dual nationals and do not apply to students or staff with a single non-UK passport.”
What is a Certificate of Entitlement?
A Certificate of Entitlement is a digital certificate linked to your non-UK passport; it confirms that you have a right of abode in the UK.
Please note that you will need to apply for a new certificate when your passport expires, and you cannot get a certificate if you already have a British passport OR a valid certificate of entitlement in another foreign passport.
The certificate costs £589 (as of 25th February – subject to change), and you can apply online on the UK government website. Please find the form here.
For most, applying for or renewing a British passport is a cheaper alternative.
Costs to be aware of
When planning ahead, it’s helpful to be aware of the costs (current expenses – subject to change):
- Adult British passport (online): £94.50
- Child British passport (online): £61.50
- Overseas applications cost slightly more
- Certificate of Entitlement: £589
Starting the process early can help groups avoid last-minute stress.
What does this mean for school groups?
For schools travelling to the UK, these changes highlight the importance of:
- Identifying dual-national students and staff early.
- Checking passports and documentation well in advance.
- Giving families clear, practical guidance on what’s required.
With the right preparation, these changes don’t need to disrupt your plans.
For more information about dual citizenship and the changes go to www.gov.uk/dual-citizenship
