British and Irish dual nationals may be allowed to enter the United Kingdom using an expired British passport together with a valid second passport under new temporary measures, subject to the discretion of airlines and other carriers.
Under earlier rules, dual citizens were required to hold a valid British or Irish passport or obtain a Certificate of Entitlement to travel to the UK, a requirement that caused confusion and concern among travellers.
However, the UK Home Office has updated its guidance, stating that carriers may accept an expired British passport issued in 1989 or later if the traveller also holds a valid passport from a country eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Personal details on both passports must match, and travellers may still be subject to additional identity checks at UK border control.
Officials said the policy change recognises the challenges faced by travellers and transport operators, but industry representatives warned that allowing airlines to decide whether to accept expired passports could lead to further uncertainty and disruption.
