Planning a trip to the UK just got more complicated for millions of international visitors, as new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rules roll out across 2024 – but if you're a British dual citizen, there's important news about what this means for your travel plans.
The UK's new ETA scheme requires digital permission before travelling, starting with Qatari nationals in November 2023. From February 2024, citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates must also secure an ETA. By year-end, the requirement extends to all non-visa nationals currently travelling visa-free for short stays, including those from EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
For British residents with dual nationality, the rules are straightforward: if you hold both a British passport and another country's passport, you won't need an ETA when entering the UK – simply use your valid British passport. The ETA requirement only applies to travellers without British or Irish passports who lack existing UK immigration status, such as settled or pre-settled status.
The digital application process costs £10 per person and can be completed online or via mobile app. Once approved, your ETA remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It covers multiple visits for tourism, family visits, business, or short-term study.
The Home Office positions the ETA scheme as part of creating a fully digital border by 2025, enhancing security and border management by tracking who enters and leaves the country. Travellers should apply well in advance, as processing times vary – though most applications are processed within three working days.