Starting on February 25, 2026, new regulations will significantly impact around 1.2 million dual British citizens worldwide, who may face difficulties entering the UK. Under these new rules, these individuals will need to ensure they possess a British passport as they will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK. Travelers who fail to secure an ETA will not be permitted to board their modes of transport, be it flight, ferry, or train, leading to potential disruptions in travel plans.

The new border control implications particularly affect dual nationals, including children, while British and Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement but must comply with other travel guidelines. These changes are anticipated to cause confusion and frustration among travelers, as many dual nationals may not have a British passport currently, forcing them either to apply for a new passport or to pay the hefty fee of £589 if they wish to maintain their ability to enter the UK without issues.

This migration regulation emphasizes the UK's efforts to tighten travel entry requirements and regulate the flow of citizens across its borders, particularly in the context of increased security and immigration control measures. As the implementation date approaches, awareness campaigns may be necessary to ensure that affected individuals have sufficient time to prepare for the changes and avoid complications during their travels.