More than a million people could be affected as travellers are required to use a British passport or proof of right of abode to re-enter the UK
Leicester (Asian independent) A change to UK border rules is raising concern among immigration experts and community organisations, who warn that a large number of dual nationals could face travel disruption if they attempt to return to Britain using only a foreign passport.
Under rules introduced on 25 February 2026, British citizens who also hold another nationality must now enter the United Kingdom using a valid British passport. Alternatively, travellers must present a foreign passport together with a Certificate of Entitlement (Right of Abode) confirming their legal right to live in the UK.
Without the correct documentation, airlines may refuse boarding or travellers could face delays and difficulties when trying to return to the country.
The issue came into focus after Natasha Cochrane De La Rosa, a 26-year-old London-born dual British-Spanish national, was refused boarding on a flight from Amsterdam to London because she attempted to travel using only her Spanish passport.
Cochrane De La Rosa, who grew up in Islington and has spent most of her life in Britain, is currently staying with relatives in Spain while attempting to resolve the situation.
Reports suggest she must now either apply for a British passport, which could take several weeks and may be complicated by historic nationality rules, or apply for a Certificate of Entitlement (Right of Abode) to confirm her legal status. The certificate currently costs around £589, meaning she may have to pay the fee before being able to return to the UK.
The case has drawn attention to the potential impact of the rule change on many people living in Britain.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the 2021 Census recorded around 1.26 million residents in England and Wales holding more than one passport, representing about 2.1% of the population.
At the same time, millions of EU nationals continue to live in Britain under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS). By September 2025, around 5.8 million people held status under the scheme, including 4.4 million with settled status and 1.2 million with pre-settled status. These individuals can continue to travel to the UK using their passport together with their digital immigration status.
However, British dual nationals are now required to travel using their British passport or provide proof of their right of abode.
Sital Singh Gill, General Secretary of the Indian Workers Association and an immigration lawyer, said the case should serve as a warning for travellers.
“This situation shows how easily people can be caught out by the new rules,” Gill said. “Many dual nationals have travelled for years using their European or foreign passport, but the law has now changed and airlines are enforcing it strictly.”
He urged people to check their documents before leaving the country.
“With more than a million people in the UK holding dual nationality, this rule could affect a very large number of families. Anyone planning to travel should ensure they carry a valid British passport when returning to the UK, or obtain the necessary documentation in advance to avoid the risk of being stranded abroad.”
