British-Danish couple say new UK passport rules may separate them from children

The Guardian World

by Lisa O’Carroll

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A British-Danish couple is facing the distressing possibility of being separated from their young children at Copenhagen Airport due to new UK border control rules targeting dual nationals. James Scrivens, a British national living in Wales, and his Danish wife Sara learned about these changes while visiting Norway and Denmark during the school holidays. The new Home Office regulations require British dual nationals to hold full UK passports for travel post-Brexit, which could force them to leave their children with relatives while they return home to apply for the necessary documents. This situation highlights the growing challenges faced by international families navigating changing travel policies. The couple’s story underscores the broader implications of the UK’s evolving border control measures, particularly for dual nationals and British citizens abroad. The new rules, which came into effect recently, have left many families in a state of uncertainty, especially those with children who hold multiple nationalities. The Scrivens family is not alone in facing this dilemma; other British-Danish couples and international families may also be affected as they attempt to comply with the updated requirements. This issue resonates globally, as it reflects the ongoing shifts in travel policies post-Brexit and their impact on dual nationals. For readers interested in world affairs and politics, the case of the Scrivens family serves as a poignant example of how international families are being disproportionately affected by these changes. The emotional toll on children, who may be forced to stay behind while their parents navigate the bureaucratic hurdles, adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. The story also raises important questions about the practicality and fairness of such regulations. As the UK continues to redefine its relationship with the EU and other countries, the experiences of individuals like James and Sara highlight the need for clearer guidelines and more flexible policies that account for the unique circumstances of dual nationals. Their case serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of political decisions on everyday lives, particularly for those who straddle multiple nationalities and cultures. In summary, the Scrivens family’s situation is a microcosm of the broader challenges faced by international families under the UK’s new passport rules. Their fear of separation from their

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/26/2026