Many Africans living in the UK eventually become British citizens while keeping their original nationality. This means they may hold dual citizenship, which often raises an important travel question:

Can a British citizen enter the UK using a non-British passport?

The short answer is yes in some situations, but it is strongly recommended to travel using a British passport.

Here’s what Africans in the UK need to know.

Travelling to the UK as a British Citizen

According to the UK Home Office, British citizens who hold dual nationality should normally travel to the UK using:

• a valid British passport, or
• a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode

Both documents prove that you have the legal right to enter, live, and work in the UK without immigration restrictions.

However, using a British passport is usually the easiest and most convenient option when travelling.

What Is the Right of Abode?

The Right of Abode gives someone the legal right to:

• live in the UK without immigration restrictions
• work in the UK without a visa
• enter the UK freely

People who have the Right of Abode must show proof of this when entering the UK. This can be done by presenting either:

• a British passport, or
• a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode placed in a foreign passport.

Digital Right of Abode Certificates Introduced in 2026

From 26 February 2026, Certificates of Entitlement are now issued digitally instead of being placed as a sticker inside a passport.

Important things to know:

• Digital certificates do not expire
• They remain valid even if the passport linked to them expires
• You must update your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account whenever you get a new passport

The certificate must always be linked to a valid passport in your UKVI account for travel.

What Happens to Old Certificate Stickers?

Previously, Certificates of Entitlement were issued as vignettes (stickers) inside a passport.

These remain valid until the passport they are attached to expires.

Once the passport expires, holders will need to switch to the digital certificate system.

Travelling to the UK Without a British Passport

In the past, some British citizens with dual nationality could travel to the UK using their foreign passport alone, especially if the passport was from a country that does not require a UK visa.

Examples include:

• EU countries
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand

However, the introduction of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system means this may no longer be straightforward.

Because of ETA requirements, many dual citizens may no longer be able to simply enter the UK using their foreign passport alone.

This is why the UK government advises British citizens to use their British passport whenever possible.

Exception for British–Irish Dual Citizens

There is one important exception.

People who hold both British and Irish citizenship can continue to enter the UK freely using an Irish passport, without needing an ETA.

Is It Better to Use a British Passport?

For most people, the answer is yes.

A Certificate of Entitlement is significantly more expensive than applying for a British passport.

Typical costs include:

• British passport (adult online application): about £94.50
• British passport (child under 16): about £61.50
• Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode: around £589

Because of the cost difference, most people prefer to apply for a British passport instead of the certificate.

What Africans in the UK Should Consider

Many Africans living in the UK may:

• obtain British citizenship through naturalisation
• keep their original nationality
• travel frequently between the UK and their home country

If this applies to you, it is best to:

• travel using your British passport
• keep your UKVI account details updated
• check new ETA travel rules if you plan to use a foreign passport

Doing this can help avoid delays or complications at UK border control.

Final Advice

If you are a British citizen with dual nationality, the safest and simplest option when travelling to the UK is to use your British passport.

Using a non-British passport without proof of your Right of Abode could lead to longer checks at immigration or travel delays.

For Africans living in the UK, staying informed about immigration rules helps ensure smooth travel and fewer issues at the border.

Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel

Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:

• Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
• Facebook: Naija UK Connect
• Instagram: @naijaukconnect