Can dual citizens use an expired British passport?

What changed for dual nationals travelling to the UK

A recent development from airlines has reopened a narrow path for some dual nationals who hold an expired British passport. One carrier publicly said an expired British passport might be accepted for travel to the UK — a statement that arrived just before tougher rules requiring dual citizens to prove their British status were due to take effect on 25 February.

What this means in practice is mixed. Airlines control check‑in and boarding decisions, so some carriers may accept an expired British passport as evidence that a passenger is entitled to enter the UK. Border and immigration officials, however, retain the final say at arrival. That means acceptance can vary by airline, airport and the individual officer who carries out immigration checks.

How travellers should prepare

• Confirm with the airline before you travel: ask specifically whether an expired British passport will be accepted for check‑in and boarding.
• Bring additional proof of status: any supporting documents that demonstrate British citizenship — other passports, certificates, or nationality documents — can help.
• Allow extra time at the airport: if an airline accepts you to board but border officers seek more documentation, you may face delays.
• Expect variability: policies can differ between carriers and ports of entry, and guidance may change while new immigration measures are implemented.

It’s still unclear how consistently expired passports will be accepted across airlines and UK border posts. For anyone affected, the safest course is to verify requirements with both the airline and UK government guidance well before travel and to travel with any additional documentation that proves entitlement to British citizenship.