It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of planning an international trip, but ensuring your travel documents are in order is the most important step for a stress-free return.
With the UK’s move toward a more digital immigration system, there has been some confusion regarding what British citizens who hold dual nationality with another country’s passport need to present at the border. At NexusVisas, we want to make sure your journey is as smooth as possible.
Make sure you’re clear about what you need to carry to ensure you can enter the UK without delay.
The Essentials: What to Carry
To enter the UK as a British citizen, you cannot rely on digital records alone. You must carry one of the following two physical documents:
A Common Mistake to Avoid
If you have recently become a citizen through naturalisation or registration, please note: your official certificate is a proof of status, but it is not a valid travel document.
Presenting a naturalisation certificate at the airport will not grant you entry. Without a passport or a Certificate of Application, you run a very high risk of being denied boarding by your airline or facing significant difficulties when you reach the UK border.
Don’t Forget the Little Travelers
The same rules apply to everyone. If you are travelling with children or dependants who are British citizens, please double-check that they also have their own valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement before you head to the airport.
Plan Ahead
If you don’t currently hold one of these documents, we strongly recommend applying well in advance of your travel dates. Having these documents ready allows you to travel in and out of the UK as often as you like, provided the documents remain valid.
If you already have your passport or Certificate of Application, just remember to keep it in your hand luggage! It’s also a great idea to share this reminder with friends or family members who are British citizens living or travelling abroad.
Helpful Resources
If you need to apply for your documents or check the latest requirements, you can find the official guidance below:
How Nexus Visas Can Help
We are here to guide you through your Immigration Journey and help you over any hurdles. If it’s UK Immigration advice you require, our London based Advisors can assist you with most Level 1 IAA related queries and applications.
Contact us here, call 020 3598 7413, or email immigration@nexusvisas.co.uk
