Dual nationality in the United Kingdom (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: British naturalisation does not require giving up another nationality. Acquiring another nationality does not cause loss of British citizenship.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Naturalisation: giving up the previous nationalityNationality rules | Not required [1] |
| Naturalisation: exceptions to giving up the previous nationalityNationality rules | None needed: dual citizenship is allowed in the UK. [2] |
| Voluntarily acquiring a foreign nationalityNationality rules | No loss of nationality [2] |
| Loss of nationality on acquiring a foreign nationality: detailsNationality rules | A British citizen who acquires another nationality keeps British citizenship. Giving it up requires a declaration of renunciation under section 12 of the British Nationality Act 1981. [2] |
Sources
- legislation.gov.uk: British Nationality Act 1981, Schedule 1 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- GOV.UK: Dual citizenship (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.