Dual British citizens are now required to present a valid UK passport to enter the country, a policy change that took effect on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The new rule applies to those holding both British and another nationality, including citizens of the Republic of Ireland and has sparked outrage among affected travellers.
Chris Betterton, a UK citizen residing in Wellington, New Zealand, described the change as an “absolute shambles,” citing a lack of clear communication from UK authorities. “They haven’t given any explanation,” Betterton said. “Like everything else, I don’t think they’ve thought through the consequences…the fact they’re making it more expensive for British citizens to come to their own country than everybody else.”
The British High Commission acknowledged the significant impact of the policy shift, stating that carriers “may accept some expired British passports as alternative documentation” at their discretion. However, the commission reiterated that dual nationals are generally expected to travel with a valid British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. The Certificate of Entitlement currently costs £589 (NZ$1330), a price point Betterton considers excessive, particularly for those who may need to travel frequently.
The sudden implementation of the new rules has led to a surge in passport applications from New Zealanders with dual British citizenship. Some applicants have reported significant delays in processing, with one individual, John Day, stating his application took a month to reach the UK, and his wife’s application remains unprocessed. Both applications included their New Zealand passports, raising concerns about potential loss during transit.
While the British High Commission has issued temporary guidance to airlines regarding the acceptance of expired passports, the House of Commons library has cautioned that airlines are unlikely to deviate from strict documentation requirements due to potential penalties for transporting inadequately documented passengers.
The policy change follows a period of increased scrutiny regarding citizenship and travel rights, particularly in the wake of Brexit. UK media outlets have reported on the growing number of citizens required to obtain UK passports after previously relying on EU freedom of movement. Betterton noted that the new rules create a financial burden for dual citizens, forcing them to acquire UK passports even when their New Zealand passports would have sufficed.
Despite calls from UK Members of Parliament for a delay in enforcement, the policy remains in effect. The Board of Airline Representatives New Zealand declined to comment on the matter. The British High Commission has not responded to requests for further clarification regarding the rationale behind the policy change or potential future adjustments.
