"Disarray Persists": Perplexity intensifies concerning ETA visa exemption for British dual citizenship holders
In recent times, there has been some confusion surrounding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements for British dual nationals. Here, we aim to provide clarity on this matter, addressing the concerns and questions that have arisen.
Firstly, it is important to note that as of April 10th, the cost of renewing a UK passport from overseas will increase from £101 to £108, and a Certificate of Entitlement will cost £550. Both processes can take several weeks to complete, leading some Brits living abroad to purchase last-minute passports as a precautionary measure.
However, British dual nationals do not need to obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK, even if their other nationality ordinarily requires an ETA. This exemption applies when one of their nationalities is British or Irish, or if they hold a certificate of entitlement to live and work in the UK.
Despite this, it is strongly advised that dual nationals travel using their British or Irish passport to avoid any delays or complications at the border. If traveling on their other nationality's passport, they should ideally have a certificate of entitlement to prove their right to enter and reside in the UK without an ETA.
During the current transition period, carriers are expected to allow boarding without requiring an ETA if the passenger is a British dual national traveling on their non-British passport. However, in the future, British dual nationals who do not carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement could face difficulties at boarding or entry.
The Home Office has stated that dual citizens with British or Irish citizenship do not need and should not apply for an ETA. However, some dual nationals have expressed concern about the situation, particularly those who do not possess a valid British passport. Some have also reported receiving conflicting advice about the ETA requirements from different UK agencies and departments.
The ETA application process asks for a declaration of other nationalities, but British is not listed as an option in the drop-down menu. Some dual nationals have skipped this question in the application process. It is essential to note that giving misinformation to enter the UK may lead to problems at the border and potential prosecution.
The UK's ETA was expanded to all EU/EFTA nationals on April 2nd, and the cost of the ETA is currently €12, rising to €19 from April 9th. Our website would like to hear from British dual nationals who have traveled to the UK since the introduction of ETA or who have plans to travel, about their experiences and any problems at the border.
In conclusion, British dual nationals can travel to the UK without an ETA, but to ensure smooth passage, it is best to use a valid British passport or the certificate of entitlement when entering the UK. The Home Office advises British dual citizens to have a valid British passport when traveling to the UK to avoid complications. It is crucial to provide accurate information during the ETA application process to avoid potential issues at the border.
- British dual nationals are exempt from obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK, but it is strongly recommended to use a valid British passport when entering the UK to ensure smooth passage.
- Those without a valid British passport should have a certificate of entitlement to prove their right to enter and reside in the UK without an ETA, as not providing accurate information during the ETA application process may lead to potential issues at the border.
