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Children born overseas to British parents may be refused entry to the United Kingdom (UK) from February 25 under a new Home Office rule requiring dual citizens to present a British passport or obtain a “certificate of entitlement.”
Under the policy, foreign-born British children cannot rely on the new electronic travel authorisation (ETA) used by other visitors. Instead, they must carry a valid passport or pay £589 for a certificate to travel.
A Home Office spokesperson said the measure applies to all British citizens with dual nationality, including babies, even if travelling with a parent holding a British passport.
“This requirement applies to all British citizens regardless of other nationality and is the same approach taken by other countries, including the United States, Canada and Australia.”
Officials said the rule is part of efforts to modernise the UK’s digital border systems and help distinguish dual nationals from illegal visa overstayers.
The certificate of entitlement will now last permanently, meaning applicants only need to apply once.
The Home Office noted that carrying a British passport remains the preferred option for dual nationals.
Failure to present the required documentation may result in denied boarding or refusal at the UK border, although Border Force retains discretion to allow entry.
