UK Imposes New Travel Rules for Australians: ETA Required, Dual Nationals Must Use British Passport
AUSTRALIA, 25 January 2026 – Australian travellers planning a trip to the United Kingdom face significant new entry requirements set to take effect next month. From 25 February 2026, most Australians will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure, while those who also hold British citizenship will no longer be able to enter the UK using their Australian passport alone. The changes, part of the UK’s “No Permission, No Travel” policy, shift document checks to the boarding gate, meaning airlines could refuse travel to those without the correct paperwork.
The New ETA Requirement for Australian Travellers
Starting 25 February 2026, Australian passport holders who are not British or Irish citizens will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short visits to the UK for tourism, business, or to see family. The ETA is an online authorisation, not a visa, and costs £16 (approximately A$32). It is valid for two years or until the passport expires, allowing multiple visits of up to six months each. Applications are made online or via a mobile app, with most approvals granted within hours. Crucially, airlines, ferry companies, and Eurostar operators will be required to verify a passenger’s ETA before allowing them to board, and face fines for transporting anyone without permission.
Stricter Rules for British-Australian Dual Nationals
A more complex change affects the hundreds of thousands of Australians who also hold British citizenship. From the same date, 25 February 2026, dual British-Australian (or British-Irish) citizens will be required to provide proof of their UK citizenship to enter the country. An Australian passport alone will no longer be sufficient.
To board UK-bound transport, dual nationals must present one of three documents:
- A valid British passport.
- A valid Irish passport.
- A valid foreign passport (e.g., Australian) containing a physical ‘Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode’.
Dual nationals are not eligible for an ETA. If they attempt to travel on their Australian passport without a Certificate of Entitlement, airline systems will flag them as lacking permission to travel, likely resulting in denied boarding. This marks a significant shift from previous flexible practices where dual citizens could often choose which passport to use.
How to Renew a UK Passport from Australia
For British citizens in Australia needing to renew or apply for a UK passport, the process is conducted entirely online. Applicants must submit a digital application, a UK-compliant passport photo, and post their current or expired passport to HM Passport Office in the UK via a secure courier. The standard processing time is typically three to four weeks, though delays can occur. First-time applications or replacements for lost/stolen passports can take longer, up to six weeks or more. It is strongly advised not to finalise travel plans until the new passport is received.
Key Facts & Costs for Australian Travellers
| Document / Requirement | Key Details & Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) For Australians without British/Irish citizenship | Cost: £16 (approx. A$32). Valid for 2 years/multiple entries. Apply online via GOV.UK or app. Mandatory from 25 February 2026. |
| UK Passport Renewal from Australia For British citizens | Online government fee: From £94.50. Total estimated cost (incl. courier): A$190 – A$280. Standard processing: 3-4 weeks. |
| Certificate of Entitlement (Right of Abode) Alternative for British citizens without a UK passport | Government fee: £589 (approx. A$1,100 – A$1,185). Endorsement placed in a valid foreign passport. Must be renewed with each new passport. |
| Irish Passport Application Alternative for Irish citizens | Standard fee from overseas: €75 (approx. A$120 – A$156). Valid for 10 years (adults). |
Frequently Asked Questions
I was born in the UK but live in Australia. What do I need to do?
If you were born in the UK, you are almost certainly a British citizen. You will need to travel to the UK on a valid British passport or with a Certificate of Entitlement in your Australian passport after 25 February 2026. You should apply for a British passport renewal well in advance of any planned travel.
My child was born in Australia, but I am British. Does my child need a UK passport?
Yes, if your child is a British citizen by descent. The new rules apply to all travellers, regardless of age. Children born abroad to British parents must have their own valid UK passport or Certificate of Entitlement to travel to the UK after the deadline.
Can I get an ETA if I’m a British citizen?
No. British citizens (including dual nationals) are not eligible for an ETA. The system will recognise your citizenship and expect you to prove it with a UK/Irish passport or Certificate of Entitlement. Attempting to apply for an ETA on an Australian passport will not work and may lead to boarding refusal.
My UK passport has expired. Can I still use it to travel before 25 February?
No. You must always travel on a valid passport. An expired British passport is not acceptable for travel at any time. You must renew it before your journey.
Where can I get official information?
For the ETA: Visit the official UK government website (GOV.UK).
For UK passport renewals from abroad: Visit the HM Passport Office section of GOV.UK.
Travellers are advised to consult official sources and begin preparations immediately to avoid disruption to their plans.