Residents in Wokingham and the wider Berkshire area who hold dual nationality – particularly British–Australian or British–Irish citizenship – are being urged to check their travel documents ahead of major UK border rule changes coming into force in February 2026.
The changes form part of the UK government’s rollout of a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system and could affect thousands of people who regularly travel abroad for work, family visits, or holidays.
What Is Changing?
From 25 February 2026, anyone who holds British or Irish citizenship, including dual nationals, must enter the UK using a valid British or Irish passport.
Previously, many dual citizens travelled in and out of the UK using their non-UK passport, such as an Australian passport. Under the new rules, this will no longer be allowed.
Airlines will be required to check documentation before passengers board, meaning travellers without the correct passport may be refused boarding overseas.
Why the UK Is Introducing These Rules
The changes are linked to the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which is being introduced for visitors from visa-free countries such as Australia, the USA, Canada and New Zealand.
The ETA is a digital pre-travel check designed to:
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Improve border security
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Screen travellers before departure
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Align the UK with similar systems used by the US and EU
British and Irish citizens are exempt from needing an ETA, but the exemption means the government now requires clearer proof of nationality at the point of travel.
More information on the ETA can be found on the UK government website:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Who Will Be Affected Locally?
The changes are particularly relevant for:
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Wokingham residents with dual British–Australian citizenship
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Families with relatives in Australia, Ireland, or Europe
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People who travel frequently for work or property matters
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UK passport holders living abroad who return regularly
Local travel agents and airlines are advising people to check passport validity now, especially if their British passport has expired.
Do You Need a UK ETA?
You need an ETA if:
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You are not a British or Irish citizen
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You are travelling to the UK for a short stay
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You are from a visa-free country (such as Australia)
You do not need an ETA if:
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You are a British citizen
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You are an Irish citizen
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You are a dual citizen travelling on a British or Irish passport
Dual citizens cannot use an ETA instead of a British passport.
What If You Don’t Have a British Passport?
If you are a British citizen but do not currently have a valid British passport, there is an alternative called a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode.
This is a document placed inside a foreign passport that confirms your unrestricted right to enter and live in the UK.
However:
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It is more expensive than a passport
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Processing times are longer
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It must be renewed when your passport expires
More details are available here:
https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode
What Should Travellers Do Now?
Residents planning travel in 2026 are advised to:
✔ Check whether they hold British or Irish citizenship
✔ Make sure their British or Irish passport is valid
✔ Renew passports well in advance
✔ Apply for an ETA if they are not British or Irish
✔ Avoid last-minute travel document applications
The Australian government has also updated its UK travel advice to reflect the changes:
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/united-kingdom
Why This Matters
For many families in Wokingham with international ties, these changes remove flexibility that previously existed for dual nationals. Travellers who turn up at the airport with the wrong passport may find themselves unable to board their flight.
With enforcement beginning in February 2026, residents are being encouraged to prepare early to avoid unnecessary disruption.
Further Reading
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UK Government: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta -
UK Government: Right of Abode
https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode -
ABC News: Explanation of UK dual citizenship travel changes
https://www.abc.net.au/news -
The Guardian: How the new rules affect Australian dual citizens
https://www.theguardian.com
Original featured image – https://homeofficejobs-sscl.co.uk/bf-DIW.html
