London, United Kingdom. UK border entry rules effective 25 February 2026 require dual British–Cypriot nationals to enter the United Kingdom exclusively using their British passport. The Cyprus High Commission in London publicly communicated the updated guidance issued by UK authorities.
New border entry requirement
Under the updated rules, dual nationals are no longer permitted to enter the UK using their non‑UK passport. Travellers holding a valid Cypriot passport could face denial of entry unless they present a valid British passport at the border.
Link to the Electronic Travel Authorisation system
The change is linked to the rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which applies to all non‑visa nationals entering the UK. Cypriot citizens normally fall under the ETA scheme, while British citizens are exempt, and the UK government has clarified that dual nationals must enter as British citizens rather than as EU nationals.
Alternative proof of right of abode
The UK recognises one alternative to a British passport for proving the right of abode: a Certificate of Entitlement affixed to a foreign passport. The certificate confirms the holder has an unrestricted right to live and work in the UK, and travellers using it do not require an ETA.
The option is legally valid but described as significantly more costly and administratively burdensome than maintaining a valid British passport.
Rationale and wider practice
The UK’s ETA system is intended to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures. The UK government requires dual nationals to enter using their British identity to align with the system’s legal framework, an approach consistent with practices in other jurisdictions where dual nationals are often required to use the passport of the country they are entering.
Recommended actions
Recommended actions for affected individuals were referenced.
Do you hold both British and Cypriot citizenship and have you checked that you will travel with a valid British passport?
