Major 2026 travel rule changes for UK holidaymakers

From biometric EU entry checks to mandatory travel permits and new passport requirements for dual nationals, holidays next year may feel very different, even from last summer.

Industry figures say searches for “summer holiday deals” have jumped by 123% in recent months. But travel professionals warn many people are unaware of the changes coming into force.

Here’s what UK travellers need to know before booking.

New Biometric EU Border Checks (EES)

The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) came in last October, and replaces passport stamping with fingerprint and facial recognition checks for non-EU travellers, including Brits.

Nicole Kerr, CEO of transport platform Mozio, said: “While a holiday is meant to be a relaxing and stress-free experience, changes to the travel industry could cause delays and confusion. Although the new system is expected to reduce wait times in the future, Brits have already experienced long delays as the rollout continues.”

Travellers should allow extra time at airports, ports and Eurostar terminals.

ETIAS launching in 2026

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to begin operating in late 2026.

Once live, UK passport holders visiting 30 European countries for up to 90 days will need approval before travelling.

Jane Bolton, ski and travel expert at Erna Low, explained: “ETIAS is a new online travel authorisation that UK travellers will need before visiting most European countries in the Schengen area. It’s not a visa, but it will be mandatory once it comes into force.”

“Once it’s live, travellers won’t be able to board flights or ferries without having an approved ETIAS linked to their passport.”

Key facts:

• €20 fee
• Free for under-18s and over-70s
• Valid for three years or until passport expiry
• Required before boarding

Importantly, the official system is not yet open, and experts warn of scam websites claiming to sell early approvals.

New Passport Rules for Dual Citizens in 2026

Alongside EU changes, updated UK travel rules are affecting dual nationals.

Dual citizenship is permitted in the UK, meaning you can be British and hold another nationality. However, new travel requirements are tightening how dual citizens enter the UK.

From this month, British and Irish dual nationals must travel to the UK using a valid UK or Irish passport

Alternatively, they must carry another passport with a certificate of entitlement proving right of abode

They cannot apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Without the correct document, boarding may be refused

If travelling before 25 February 2026, some dual nationals may still be able to enter using a passport eligible for an ETA without obtaining one – but this transitional flexibility is ending.

Experts advise dual citizens to check passport validity early and confirm entry rules with both governments well before departure.

US Entry App requirement

Travellers heading to the United States will increasingly be required to use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app.

The app requires passengers to:

• Create a profile
• Upload a photo
• Answer arrival questions
• Generate a QR code for scanning at passport control

While designed to speed up entry, it adds another step to pre-travel preparation.

Heathrow and some other airports are no longer insisting on the 100ml rule – but many airports still are

Heathrow Airport has scrapped the 100ml liquid rule thanks to new scanners. However, this rule does not apply at all airports, particularly on return journeys.

Hannah Mayfield, a money expert at PayingTooMuch, warned: “Even if you’re no longer required to show prescription details at Heathrow, it’s still important to carry one with you.

“If your medication is lost, stolen or damaged while abroad, replacing it can be costly and time-consuming.”

Dr Asimah Hanif, a GP working with Staysure, added: “Losing access to prescribed medication abroad can be serious.

“I’d still advise patients to carry medicines in their original packaging and keep a copy of their prescription.”

Travellers are urged to check rules for both departure and return airports.

Expect delays beyond Border Control

Nicole Kerr also warned: “Alongside these procedures, travellers will inevitably be met with other challenges which could cause delays, such as airport strikes and long taxi queues when leaving the terminal.”

With another busy year predicted for European airports, advance booking of transfers and allowing additional journey time is recommended.

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What this means for your 2026 holiday

Between biometric EU border systems, ETIAS authorisation, US entry apps, liquid rule variations and new UK passport requirements for dual nationals, travel in 2026 will require more preparation than many travellers are used to.

Experts recommend:

• Check passport validity now
• Dual nationals should confirm which passport must be used
• Avoid unofficial ETIAS websites
• Allow extra time at airports and borders
• Carry printed and digital travel documents
• Ensure travel insurance covers medical and prescription issues

The message from travel professionals is clear: preparation will be essential.

For many Brits, holidays will still go ahead smoothly – but failing to understand the new rules could mean delays, denied boarding, or unexpected stress at the start of your trip.