Dear South African Community in the UK,
As of April 6, 2025, significant travel changes have taken effect for British dual nationals, including those of you who hold both British and South African citizenship. The UK government’s rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, now fully implemented, has reshaped how dual nationals must navigate travel into the UK. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s happening, how it affects you, and practical steps to ensure smooth travel—whether you’re popping back from a holiday in Cape Town or hosting family from Johannesburg.
The ETA System: A Quick Recap
The ETA is a digital pre-travel permission required for non-British/Irish citizens from visa-exempt countries (like South Africa) who don’t hold UK residency or a visa. Launched in phases since 2023, it became mandatory for European nationals on April 2, 2025, following its earlier enforcement for non-Europeans (including South Africans) on January 8, 2025. It costs £16 as of April 9, 2025 (up from £10), lasts two years or until your passport expires, and allows multiple entries for stays up to six months.
For South Africans without British citizenship, this means an ETA is now essential for every trip to the UK unless you have a visa or residency status (e.g., settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme if applicable). But what about those of you with dual British-South African nationality? That’s where things get interesting—and a bit tricky.
British Dual Nationals: The New Rules
If you’re a British-South African dual national, you’re technically exempt from needing an ETA because British citizens don’t require one. The catch? You must prove your British citizenship when entering the UK, and the Home Office strongly recommends doing so with a valid British passport. Here’s why this matters:
Option 1: Travel on Your British Passport
The simplest way to avoid hassle is to use a valid British passport. It’s digitally linked to the UK’s immigration system, ensuring quick entry without needing an ETA. If your British passport is expired or lost, renew it pronto—processing from within the UK is faster (typically 3 weeks) and costs £88.50 for adults online, compared to £101 if renewed from overseas.Option 2: The Certificate of Entitlement
Don’t have a British passport or can’t renew it in time? You can apply for a Certificate of Entitlement, a document affixed to your South African passport proving your right of abode as a British citizen. It’s a hefty £550 and takes about three weeks to process, but it’s a one-time fix (valid for the life of your South African passport). Note: you can only attach it to one non-UK passport, so choose wisely if you hold multiple nationalities.The Transition Period (For Now)
Here’s the good news: as of April 6, 2025, the Home Office is still in a “soft launch” phase for dual nationals. If you arrive on your South African passport without an ETA, you’re currently allowed entry—provided border officials can verify your British citizenship (e.g., via an expired British passport or other proof). But this leniency won’t last forever. The government has promised to announce a firm cutoff date soon, after which you’ll need either a British passport or Certificate of Entitlement. Don’t get caught out—start planning now.
Why the Change?
The ETA system aims to digitize and secure UK borders, screening travelers before they arrive. For dual nationals, the shift ensures consistency: all British citizens must enter as such, regardless of other nationalities. This has sparked frustration for some, especially those who’ve relied on non-UK passports (like South African ones) for years without issue. The £550 certificate fee has also drawn criticism as a steep price for proving what you already are—British.
Practical Impacts for South Africans in the UK
Traveling Back from South Africa
If you’re a dual national visiting family in Durban or Pretoria, use your British passport to return to the UK. If you only have your South African passport and it’s ETA-free, you might still slip through during this transition—but don’t bank on it long-term. Airlines are increasingly strict about checking travel permissions, and border delays could ruin your homecoming.Hosting Visitors
For your non-British family or friends in South Africa, an ETA is now non-negotiable. They’ll need to apply online (via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK) at least three days before travel, costing £16. Processing is usually quick, but glitches have been reported—advise them to double-check approval before heading to OR Tambo International.Renewal Headaches
If your British passport expired while you’ve been living in the UK, don’t delay renewal. South Africans among us know the pain of passport admin—add Brexit-era border rules, and it’s a recipe for stress. Renewing from London or elsewhere in the UK is far easier than from abroad, so tackle it now.
Community Concerns and Workarounds
Some dual nationals have flagged issues with the ETA application itself. The online form asks about additional nationalities but doesn’t always list “British” as an option, leaving users unsure whether to declare it. Others worry about lying by omission if they skip it. The Home Office’s advice? Don’t apply for an ETA if you’re British—just use your British passport or get that certificate. Still, clarity is lacking, and the transition period feels like a grace period with an expiry date TBD.
For those with kids holding both passports, ensure their British ones are current too—every traveler needs valid proof of citizenship, no exceptions.
What’s Next?
The Home Office insists this is about streamlining borders, not punishing dual nationals. But as the ETA beds in, expect tighter enforcement. Rumors on X (trending among travel buffs) suggest a cutoff could come by mid-2025, so don’t sleep on this. For South Africans with British citizenship, it’s a reminder of the post-Brexit reality: dual nationality offers perks, but the UK wants you to wave the Union Jack at the border.
Your Action Plan
Check Your Passports: Is your British one valid? If not, renew it online at GOV.UK.
Budget for the Certificate: If you’re sticking with your South African passport, save up for that £550 certificate—it’s a long-term investment.
Spread the Word: Tell your SA-based loved ones about the ETA requirement.
Stay Updated: Watch for that cutoff announcement—subscribe to Home Office alerts or keep an eye on our newsletter.
Questions? Drop us a line—we’re here to help you navigate this shift. Safe travels, and enjoy the best of both worlds, from braais to British tea!
Warm regards,
Troy & Sarah
SA Connect UK
The information in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Consult a qualified expert before making decisions based on this content.
