Full enforcement of UK Electronic Travel Authorisation starts 25 February—no boarding without ETA
Home Office says expired UK passports ‘may’ prove citizenship—but airlines keep right to refuse carriage
Guardian case study exposes human impact of UK’s new passport-only rule for dual nationals
Latest News
Gatwick Airport rail shutdown after firearms arrest snarls air-rail connections
Emergency services halted all rail traffic through Gatwick Airport on 20 February after police arrested a passenger carrying imitation firearms. The one-hour shutdown caused significant delays for air passengers and highlighted vulnerabilities in the airport’s reliance on a single rail corridor.
UK to Scrap Physical Visa Stickers and Switch Fully to eVisas from 25 February 2026
The Home Office has confirmed that all new UK visit visas issued from 25 February 2026 will be eVisas only, ending the use of vignette stickers and BRP cards. Visa holders will need a UKVI online account and must update passport details before travel. Airlines will refuse boarding if a traveller’s passport is not linked to a valid eVisa or ETA, making advance checks essential for companies moving staff to the UK.
Home Office Says Expired UK Passports Can Prove Citizenship as Dual-National Rules Loom
Facing criticism over new boarding rules for British dual nationals, the Home Office now says airlines may accept an expired UK passport as proof of citizenship from 25 February. The step helps travellers whose current British passport has lapsed, but experts warn many remain unaware and could still be refused travel if they cannot produce an eligible document.
New UK Passport Rules for Dual Nationals Trigger Airline ‘No-Board’ Warnings
Airlines will deny boarding to dual British nationals who cannot produce a UK passport or Certificate of Entitlement from 25 February 2026, according to carrier notices reported by The Times. The tougher rule supports the new ETA system but raises urgent compliance and cost issues for affected travellers and employers.
Corporate Mobility Alert: ETA ‘Grace Period’ Ends—Carriers to Enforce Checks Next Week
Crown World Mobility reports that, from 25 February, airlines will strictly enforce the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation requirement and refuse boarding where no ETA is recorded. Dual British nationals without a UK passport are especially at risk. Employers should update travel policies, booking systems and duty-of-care procedures immediately.
Modern Slavery Referrals in the UK Hit Record High in 2025, Home Office Data Show
Home Office statistics published on 19 February 2026 record the highest ever annual total of modern-slavery referrals (17,560) in the UK. Half involve migrants on fragile immigration statuses, signalling tougher enforcement and sponsor-licence scrutiny for employers that move labour internationally.