UK Introduces Passport Rule That Could Block Entry for Foreign-Born British Children

British children born outside the United Kingdom may be refused entry starting next week under revised travel documentation rules.

From February 25, dual British citizens will be required to present a valid British passport when travelling to the UK. Those without one must obtain a “certificate of entitlement,” which costs £589.

Children born abroad to a British parent automatically qualify for British citizenship, making them dual nationals if they also hold another nationality. They cannot renounce their British citizenship until they turn 18. As a result, they must either secure a British passport or apply for the certificate of entitlement before travelling.

Unlike other foreign nationals, they are not eligible to enter the UK using the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), the visa-waiver scheme that permits short visits of up to six months for a £16 fee.

The UK Home Office confirmed that the requirement applies to infants and minors, even when travelling with a parent who holds a British passport. Airlines are expected to deny boarding to dual British citizens who fail to present the required documents. At the border, officials will retain discretion over entry decisions.

According to the Home Office, the policy forms part of efforts to modernise the country’s digital border controls. A government source said the measure is intended to help authorities distinguish between dual nationals and individuals who overstay visas.

Officials also noted that the certificate of entitlement will now be valid permanently, meaning applicants will only need to apply once.

A Home Office spokesperson described the certificate as a fallback option, stating that British citizens are encouraged to apply for a passport instead. The spokesperson added that guidance for dual nationals has been publicly available since October 2024, alongside an ongoing public awareness campaign on the introduction of the ETA system.

The department said the requirement applies to all British citizens, regardless of additional nationalities, and reflects the approach adopted by countries including the United States, Canada and Australia.