UK Travel Changes for Australians in 2026: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Australians travelling to the United Kingdom in 2026 are being strongly advised to review their travel documents well in advance. From 25 February 2026, two important UK entry rule changes will come into effect, both of which may affect a traveller’s ability to board their flight.

At Valhalla Travel, we are flagging these changes early to help our clients avoid unnecessary stress, delays, or denied boarding at the airport.

Dual UK or Irish Citizens Must Travel on the Correct Passport

From 25 February 2026, travellers who are dual citizens of the United Kingdom or Ireland must enter the UK using one of the following:

• A valid British passport, or

• A valid Irish passport, or

• A Certificate of Entitlement (COE) placed in another passport

Travelling on an Australian passport alone will no longer be permitted for UK or Irish dual citizens, even where citizenship has been acquired by descent.

Why This Matters

This change is expected to catch out travellers who:

• Have allowed their UK or Irish passport to expire

• Have never applied for a UK or Irish passport despite being eligible through a parent

• Assume an Australian passport is sufficient

With standard processing times and strict documentation requirements, last-minute applications may not be possible—particularly for urgent travel such as family emergencies, milestone celebrations, or business commitments.

What Is a Certificate of Entitlement?

For dual citizens without a current UK or Irish passport, a Certificate of Entitlement (COE) is an alternative. This is a paid endorsement placed inside a foreign passport confirming the holder’s right of abode in the UK. It must be reapplied for each time a passport is renewed.

ETA Becomes Mandatory for Most Australian Visitors

In a separate change, from 25 February 2026, most Australian passport holders travelling to the UK for tourism or short stays will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Key points about the UK ETA:

• Fully digital authorisation

• Valid for two years, or until the passport expires

• Required for adults and children

• Applies to short-term visits, including holidays and visiting family

Travellers do not need an ETA if they:

Hold a valid British passport

• Have permission to live, work or study in the UK

• Hold a valid Certificate of Entitlement

What Travellers (and Travel Agents) Should Check Early

For any UK-bound travel in 2026, it is essential to confirm:

• Whether the traveller is a UK or Irish citizen, including by descent

• Whether they hold a current UK or Irish passport

• Whether they require a Certificate of Entitlement

• Whether an ETA application is needed

Airlines are required to enforce entry requirements and may refuse boarding if documentation is not correct.

How Valhalla Travel Can Help

As an experienced travel agency with over four decades in the industry, Valhalla Travel ensures our clients receive clear, proactive advice on changing entry requirements. We check documentation early, flag potential issues, and guide clients through passport, COE, and ETA considerations as part of our service.

For official eligibility checks and ETA requirements, travellers should refer to the UK Government website.

If you are planning travel to the United Kingdom in 2026, speak with the team at Valhalla Travel early to ensure your journey starts smoothly and without surprises.