Key Takeaways
- The UK government has announced changes to passport regulations, affecting British/Irish dual citizens who will no longer be able to enter the UK using a passport from a different country.
- Dual citizens will have to use a valid British or Irish passport, or another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement (COE) to enter the UK.
- Australians visiting the UK will have to pay about AU$32 and apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) from February 25.
- The changes may cause frustration and additional costs for dual citizens, who will have to choose whether to pay for a British or Irish passport, the COE, or renounce their British citizenship.
Introduction to the New Passport Rules
The UK government’s recent announcement of changes to passport regulations has caused frustration among British/Irish dual citizens, including Australian-British retiree Ian Fletcher. Fletcher, who is planning a seven-week holiday to the UK with his wife in April, may have to rush to get a British passport, which he hasn’t held for 25 years. The new rules, which come into effect on February 25, prevent British/Irish dual citizens from entering the UK using a passport from a different country, such as an Australian passport. Instead, they will have to use either a valid British or Irish passport, or another valid passport containing a certificate of entitlement (COE).
The Impact on Dual Citizens
The changes have come as a surprise to many dual citizens, who will have to choose whether to pay for a British or Irish passport, the COE, or renounce their British citizenship. For Fletcher, this means having to get a copy of his UK birth certificate, which will cost him a few hundred dollars, before he can apply for a British passport. The cost of an adult British passport application by Australian residents is around AU$280, while the cost of an adult Irish standard 10-year passport application is about AU$156. The COE is the most expensive option, costing around AU$1,180. Renouncing British citizenship is also an option, but it comes with a cost of around AU$966.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
From February 25, Australians visiting the UK will have to pay about AU$32 and apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA). The ETA gives permission for a person without UK immigration status or citizenship to travel to the country and visit for up to six months. The reasons for visiting include seeing family or tourism. Everyone in the family, including babies and children, must have an ETA. The UK government recommends that travelers do not book their trip until they have their new and valid passport, as it will have a different number.
Determining Dual Citizenship
Whether someone is a dual citizen depends on the laws of Australia and their other country. A person may be a dual citizen if they have a parent who is a national of another country, marry a national of another country, apply for and receive citizenship of another country and do not lose their Australian citizenship, remain a citizen of another country and become an Australian citizen, or were born overseas. It is essential to note that a person does not automatically lose their other citizenship when they become an Australian citizen, and there are often formal processes that must be undertaken if they want to renounce their original nationality.
Consequences of Not Having Valid Documents
If a person does not have a valid passport or COE, they may not be able to board transport to the UK on or after February 25. It is crucial for travelers to ensure they have the necessary documents before their trip to avoid any issues. The UK government’s changes to passport regulations aim to digitize the immigration system and pave the way for a contactless UK border in the future. However, the changes may cause frustration and additional costs for dual citizens, who will have to adapt to the new rules to avoid any travel disruptions.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the UK government’s changes to passport regulations will affect British/Irish dual citizens, who will have to use a valid British or Irish passport, or another valid passport containing a COE to enter the UK. Australians visiting the UK will have to pay about AU$32 and apply for an ETA from February 25. It is essential for travelers to understand the new rules and take the necessary steps to ensure they have the required documents to avoid any travel disruptions. Dual citizens should check with their local embassy or consulate to determine the best course of action and to ensure they have the necessary documents to travel to the UK.
