Ryanair’s passengers holding dual citizenship may be permitted to board flights bound for the UK even if they lack specific documentation, as long as they can provide valid proof of their citizenship. Amid the uncertainty surrounding new regulations, the airline has indicated a potential allowance for British dual nationals to travel to the UK without certain required documents starting next week.
Effective from the upcoming Wednesday, dual nationals have been instructed to present a British passport or obtain a “certificate of entitlement” priced at £589 when traveling to the UK. Currently, entry using non-British passports is allowed for this group.
The new rules apply universally to all dual British nationals, regardless of their place of residence. The Home Office has directed airlines to deny boarding to any dual national without a British passport, including minors.
There have been concerns raised regarding the complexity of the new regulations and the potential risk of British citizens being stranded abroad. Ryanair was questioned about the possibility of dual nationals boarding with a foreign passport, lacking an electronic travel authorization (ETA), but possessing evidence of British citizenship.
In response, a company spokesperson stated that passengers could be allowed to board UK-bound flights if their British or Irish nationality is verified, or if they possess any other legal status in the UK, including indefinite leave to remain stamps or vignettes.
Cabin crew may direct such passengers to a UK government carrier support hub for identity verification and travel eligibility assessment. If the verification process is successful, dual citizens might be permitted to proceed with their travel plans.
Similar approaches may be adopted by other airlines as well. Starting February 25, visitors to the UK will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), except for British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, who are exempt but must fulfill other criteria.
Dual nationals are now mandated to hold a valid British passport or obtain a certificate of entitlement costing £589 to travel to the UK. Previously, they could enter using their non-British passport at no additional charge.
Attempting to enter the UK solely with a foreign passport could lead to complications for dual nationals. While British citizens have the right of abode in the UK, travelers in this group may face additional scrutiny until their status is verified, potentially hindering their boarding if they fail to prove their right of entry.
The Government introduced the new rules last year, but some dual nationals have criticized the sudden implementation and inadequate communication of the changes. Concerns have been raised that vacations or business trips could be disrupted if individuals cannot obtain the necessary documentation in time.
Affected individuals have expressed feeling like “second-class citizens” due to the rule changes, arguing that they face a more challenging situation than foreign nationals who can enter the UK with a foreign passport and a £16 ETA.
Luke Petherbridge, Abta’s director of public affairs, has called on the government to establish a grace period during which carriers could accept alternative proof of citizenship for boarding, as Ryanair has suggested.
A Home Office spokesperson clarified that carriers have the discretion to accept an expired British passport as alternative documentation. Moreover, individuals with a prior British passport can apply for an emergency travel document for urgent entry into the UK. Border Force will assess travelers’ eligibility upon arrival and conduct additional checks as necessary.
The Home Office confirmed that the new regulations also apply to children and infants, even when accompanied by a parent with a British passport. However, Border Force officials will have the discretion to decide whether to permit their entry.
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