UK ETA for Dual Nationals — Which Passport Do I Use?
- Philip Talbot
- Jun 7
- 2 min read
If you hold dual nationality and are planning a trip to the UK, you may be wondering which passport to use when applying for your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The answer is straightforward — but getting it wrong could cause problems at the border.
What is a UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a digital travel authorisation required for visitors from eligible countries who do not need a visa to enter the UK. It is linked electronically to your passport, so the passport you travel with must match the passport on your ETA application.
Which Passport Should I Use?
If you hold dual nationality and one of your passports is from a country that requires a UK ETA, you should apply using that passport. If both of your passports are from ETA-eligible countries, use whichever passport you intend to travel with — just make sure your ETA is linked to that same passport.
If one of your passports is British, you do not need an ETA at all. British citizens can enter the UK freely using their British passport.
Common Dual Nationality Scenarios
American-Canadian dual national: Both the US and Canada require a UK ETA. Apply using whichever passport you will travel with and ensure your ETA matches that document.
Australian-British dual national: Use your British passport to enter the UK. No ETA required.
Canadian-French dual national: French citizens are EU nationals and will require an ETA when the EU ETIAS launches. For now, apply using your Canadian passport if travelling on that document.
Can I Have Two ETAs — One for Each Passport?
Yes — you can hold an ETA for each of your passports. However, you must always travel on the same passport that your ETA is linked to. Mixing passports and ETAs at the border will cause delays.
Important Reminder
Always check your ETA is valid before you travel. If your passport expires and you renew it, your ETA does not transfer — you will need to apply again on your new passport.
Apply for Your UK ETA Today
At ETA Permits, we make the application process simple, fast, and stress-free. Our expert team reviews every application before submission to minimise the risk of errors or delays.
👉 Apply now at ETApermits.com
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