Do I need to travel with both passports if I have dual citizenship?

Do You Need Both Passports When Travelling with Dual Citizenship?

If you're a dual national planning a trip to or from the UK, it’s more important than ever to get your documentation right. As of 25 February 2026, new rules have come into effect that could affect your ability to re-enter the UK if you’re not prepared.

Gone are the days of assuming one passport is enough. Now, if you hold dual citizenship and intend to return to the UK, you’ll need to present your British passport—or a valid digital version of your Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode linked to your second nationality’s passport. This change reflects tighter border controls and a push for clearer identity verification.

Failing to provide the right documents could mean being denied entry, even if you’re a British citizen by right. That’s a serious risk, especially for those who may have lived abroad for years and relied solely on their second passport for travel.

For example, a dual citizen with a Canadian and British passport should always travel with their British document when returning to the UK. If carrying a second passport is unavoidable for visa purposes or other travel logistics, make sure your British passport is clearly available at border control.

It’s also worth noting that while physical passports are still widely used, digital versions of official entitlements—like the Certificate of Abode—are now being accepted, marking a shift toward tech-integrated travel systems. However, not all border systems may be fully equipped to read digital proofs, so a physical document remains the safer choice.

The bottom line? Never assume your dual status speaks for itself. Carry both passports if needed, but always ensure your British nationality is clearly verifiable. A little preparation now can save a lot of trouble at the border.