18/01/2026
UK Entry Rules Simplified:
Australians travelling to the United Kingdom in 2026 are being urged to double-check their documents, with two changes coming into effect from 25 February 2026 that could impact boarding at the airport.
The first change targets dual citizens of the United Kingdom and Ireland. From 25 February 2026, travellers who are British or Irish citizens will need to enter the UK using a valid British or Irish passport, or a Certificate of Entitlement (COE) placed in another passport. Travelling on an Australian passport alone will no longer be enough for UK or Irish dual citizens, even if citizenship is by descent.
The change is expected to catch out travellers who have let their British or Irish passports lapse, or who have never held one despite being eligible through a parent. With standard processing times and original document requirements, last-minute applications may not be workable for clients travelling for family emergencies, milestone celebrations or business.
For dual citizens who do not have a current UK or Irish passport, the alternative is a COE, which is a paid endorsement in a foreign passport confirming the holder’s right of abode in the UK. It is also renewed each time the passport is replaced.
ETA also becomes mandatory for most Australian visitors
Separately, from 25 February 2026, most travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Australia, will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for tourism and short stays in the UK. The ETA is digital, valid for two years (or until the passport expires), and applies to adults and children. Travellers with a valid British passport, permission to live, work or study in the UK, or a COE do not need an ETA.
For UK-bound bookings, the practical message is to confirm early whether a client is a UK or Irish citizen (including by descent), whether they hold a current UK or Irish passport, and whether they will need an ETA. Airlines can refuse travel if entry requirements are not met.
Check eligibility and ETA requirements on the UK 👉🏻 https://www.gov.uk/eta
