ETA: What is the UK's new travel system and how are dual nationals affected?
BBC World
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The UK has introduced a new electronic travel authorization (ETA) system effective from 25 February, impacting travelers from over 85 countries, including the US and Australia. The ETA replaces visa-free entry for short-term visits like tourism, business, or study, allowing stays up to six months with multiple entries. However, this change has caused confusion and challenges for dual nationals, who are now required to hold a British passport or a certificate of entitlement to enter the UK.
The ETA costs £16 and must be applied for in advance, with applicants needing their passport details, a photo, and basic personal information. While most applications are processed quickly, airlines can refuse travel without a valid ETA. The system aims to streamline immigration checks and improve security, but dual nationals face issues as they cannot apply for an ETA. They must instead obtain a British passport or a certificate of entitlement, which may not be readily available even if they hold UK citizenship.
The new rules have left many dual nationals scrambling to secure the necessary documents, potentially facing delays or denied entry without them. This has raised concerns about access to the UK for those who previously traveled freely under their other nationality. The government's delayed enforcement of the system was intended to allow time for adjustment, but the impact on dual nationals highlights ongoing challenges in navigating this new framework.
For readers interested in global travel and immigration policies, this shift underscores the evolving nature of international travel requirements. While the ETA aims to enhance security and efficiency, its implementation has revealed gaps that disproportionately affect dual nationals, raising questions about equality and access. As more countries adopt similar systems, understanding these changes becomes crucial for anyone planning to visit the UK or other nations with comparable entry regulations.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/25/2026