Travellers holding both Australian and British dual citizenship need to be aware of an important change to UK entry requirements.
Under the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, dual citizens cannot travel to the UK on an Australian passport with an ETA. If you are a British citizen, you must travel on a valid British passport.
This requirement has now been formally confirmed by the UK Government.
What has changed?
The UK is rolling out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for visa-free nationals, including Australians.
However, British citizens are not eligible for an ETA, even if they also hold another passport.
This means:
- If you are a dual Australian–British citizen, you must enter the UK using your British passport
- You cannot rely on your Australian passport with an ETA
- Airlines may refuse boarding if the incorrect passport is presented
The official government guidance can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-guide-for-dual-citizens
Who does this affect?
This update applies to:
- Australian citizens who also hold British citizenship
- Individuals who typically travel on their Australian passport for convenience
- Families where children hold British citizenship by descent
- Long-term dual nationals whose British passport has expired or not yet been renewed
If you are entitled to a British passport, the UK considers you a British citizen for entry purposes, regardless of which passport you prefer to travel on.
Why the UK is enforcing this rule
From the UK Government’s perspective:
- British citizens do not require permission to enter the UK
- An ETA is a pre-travel authorisation for non-citizens only
- Travel records must match citizenship status, not convenience
This approach aligns with international border control standards and airline compliance obligations.
Common questions we’re seeing
Can I apply for an ETA anyway “just in case”?
No. British citizens are not eligible for an ETA.
What if my British passport is expired?
You will need to renew it before you travel. Airlines may refuse boarding otherwise.
What if I’ve always travelled on my Australian passport?
Past practice does not override the new ETA framework.
Does this affect transiting through the UK?
Yes. Entry and transit rules apply based on citizenship status.
Our advice if you are travelling soon
- Check whether you hold British citizenship
- Confirm your British passport validity well before departure
- Do not assume an ETA will be accepted
- Seek professional advice if your status is unclear
If you’re navigating Australian migration planning, our team can help.
Contact PR Migration for expert Australian migration advice:
https://www.prmigration.com.au/get-in-touch/
