Travel expert Simon Calder has issued a cautionary message to over a million British citizens about upcoming changes to passport regulations. The alert precedes a significant update scheduled for February 25, 2026.
The modification primarily impacts individuals holding dual nationality and pertains to entry regulations into the UK. Commencing on February 25, everyone who is not a British or Irish national will be required to possess an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
According to information on the Government’s official website, travelers from 85 different nationalities, such as the United States, Canada, and France, who do not necessitate a visa, will no longer be permitted to enter the UK legally without an ETA.
The new regulations are aimed at digitizing the immigration system and laying the groundwork for a contactless UK border in the future, as stated on the government’s website. Airlines and other carriers will be conducting pre-travel checks on individuals.
In a video shared on The Independent’s Instagram channel, travel expert Mr. Calder elaborated on the impending changes. He highlighted that starting on February 25, individuals with dual citizenship will face stringent passport rules.
From that date onward, non-British or Irish citizens must possess an ETA to visit the UK. Even with passports from countries such as France, the United States, or Australia, obtaining an ETA will be mandatory. However, British citizenship holders will need either a British passport or a Certificate of Right of Abode in the UK to travel to the UK legally.
The right of abode referenced by Mr. Calder signifies the freedom to reside and work in the UK without immigration restrictions, eliminating the need for a visa or ETA for entry. As per the 2021 Census data, approximately 1.26 million residents across England and Wales held multiple passports.
Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp defended the changes, emphasizing that they enhance the government’s ability to prevent security threats and offer a comprehensive view of immigration patterns. He asserted that ETAs streamline the travel process for visitors, ensuring a smoother experience for the millions of travelers who arrive in the UK annually.
Mr. Calder also provided insights into the intricacies of travel procedures, advising travelers to carry their British passports for smoother entry processes. He further advised Irish passport holders on the convenience of traveling freely within the UK, the European Union, and the Schengen area without bureaucratic hurdles.