Ryanair May Accept Alternative Documents for Dual Nationals Boarding UK Flights
British dual nationals may be permitted to board flights from Europe to the UK without a current British passport when new immigration rules take effect next week, according to Ryanair. The airline is adhering to new Home Office regulations but has indicated that other documents proving British nationality may be accepted.
This announcement is expected to ease concerns among Britons living in Europe who have been anxious about the new immigration rules requiring dual nationals to present a British passport or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to board flights to the UK. These rules are part of a border operations streamlining set to commence on 25 February.
Many dual nationals have expressed worry that the new requirements could disrupt family visits or travel plans, particularly for children born abroad who do not possess British passports. Hundreds of dual nationals have voiced dissatisfaction with the introduction of these rules, noting that they have previously been able to travel to the UK on their other passports for decades. Numerous complaints have been directed at the Home Office regarding the handling of this policy change.
Ryanair's Statement on Acceptable Documentation
When questioned about whether Ryanair would permit boarding for passengers holding foreign passports without ETAs if they can provide alternative proof of British nationality, the airline responded:
"Yes, we will allow a passenger to board a flight to the UK if we are satisfied that the passenger is a British national, an Irish national or is in possession of any other status in the UK, including passengers who hold an old stamp/vignette with indefinite leave to remain."
Ryanair further clarified that a "valid or expired British passport" and a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode are considered acceptable proof of British nationality.
The airline added that starting 25 February, "airlines are required to check that passengers of non-visa countries eligible for ETA have one. If passengers do not have an ETA, we are required to check any other document that may allow them to enter the UK." However, Ryanair did not specify whether alternative documentation could include items such as a birth certificate, an old British passport, or a certificate of naturalisation.
Home Office Rules and Enforcement
Airlines face fines if they transport passengers without the right to enter the UK. The Home Office's statement on the new rules emphasizes that passengers may be denied boarding if they do not present a passport or certificate of entitlement. The certificate is a digital stamp costing £589 that can be linked to a dual national’s foreign passport.
"From 25 February 2026, all dual British citizens will need to present either a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement when travelling to the UK. Without one carriers cannot verify they are a British citizen, which may lead to delays or refused boarding."
A House of Commons briefing paper published in January regarding the rule changes notes that dual nationals must prove their right to enter the UK.
"(Meaning, the entitlement to live or work in the UK without any immigration restrictions). They don’t need an immigration officer’s permission to enter the UK, but they must be able to demonstrate that they have the right of abode,"
the briefing paper states.
Personal Impact and Reactions
One individual in Canada, who contacted , reported advancing his flight to 23 February to ensure entry to the UK. He wished to visit his brother, who is dying of a brain tumour, and did not want to miss his brother’s birthday on 12 March.
"I didn’t want to miss his birthday on 12 March. It is completely absurd that dual nationals like myself should be ruled ineligible to enter the UK as tourists without an ETA. I suppose that you have to have a curious Whitehall mentality to think a British citizen must enter the UK as a British citizen and nothing less,"
said James (name changed).
The Home Office has been contacted for comment on these developments.
