Last Updated on June 27, 2025 by Michelle Krause
Topic | Renewing a UK Passport for Dual Citizens: What You Need to Know
Renewing a UK passport can be complicated for anyone living abroad, but if you’re a dual citizen, the process can be even more confusing. From questions about eligibility to issues with documentation and travel restrictions, dual nationals often face unique challenges that single-nationals don’t.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what dual citizens need to know about renewing a UK passport and how MyBritishPassport can make the entire process faster, easier, and stress-free.
Renewing a UK Passport for Dual Citizens – Quick Overview
If you’re a dual citizen living abroad, renewing your UK passport can present additional complexities. While the UK allows dual citizenship, the renewal process outside the UK is often slower and more demanding. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about renewing your UK passport as a dual citizen, explaining how MyBritishPassport can simplify the process with expert support, faster turnaround times, and global assistance.
Key Takeaways
- Dual citizens can renew their UK passport from abroad but face unique documentation and travel issues.
- Processing times through official routes can be long and frustrating, especially if your application has errors.
- MyBritishPassport offers a fast, secure, and expertly managed renewal service for dual citizens worldwide.
- Start early to avoid travel disruptions and make sure your documents are up to date.
Do you have to declare dual nationality when renewing a British passport?
No, you don’t need to declare your second nationality when renewing a UK passport, but it’s important to ensure all your documents are consistent.
Which passport should I use if I have dual citizenship in the UK?
Use your British passport to enter and leave the UK, and your other passport for travel in your second country – this avoids complications at border control
Do dual citizens need both passports?
Yes, it’s recommended to hold and travel with both passports when applicable, especially if each is required for visa-free access or entry to specific countries.
Who Qualifies as a Dual Citizen?
Dual citizens are individuals who legally hold citizenship in the UK and one or more other countries. This status often arises from birth, descent, naturalisation, or marriage, depending on the country.
According to the UK government, there are no restrictions on dual nationality. In fact, over 6 million British nationals live abroad, and a significant portion of them are dual citizens, especially in countries like Australia, Canada, the U.S., and EU nations. (Source: ONS, 2021)
Can Dual Citizens Renew a UK Passport from Abroad?
Yes, they can and MyBritishPassport can assist! Many dual nationals don’t realise that applying from outside the UK involves longer processing times, stricter identity verification, and sometimes confusion over which passport to use for travel.
If you’re a dual citizen renewing your UK passport while living abroad, you will typically need to:
- Prove your British citizenship
- Submit a valid passport photo
- Provide supporting documents (especially if your previous passport has expired)
- Pay the renewal fee
- Arrange for secure delivery to your location
Common Issues Faced by Dual Citizens
Here are a few specific problems dual citizens often run into:
1. Identity Confusion
If your name differs between your two passports or identity documents (due to marriage, legal changes, or cultural differences).
2. Travel Restrictions
Using two passports may raise red flags when crossing borders.
3. Delays in Processing
Renewing through official UK channels from abroad can take up to 10+ weeks, especially during peak periods. And if your application has even a minor error, it can be rejected and delayed further.
That’s why many dual nationals are turning to MyBritishPassport for support and expert application handling.
Learn how dual citizenship impacts British passport applications.
How MyBritishPassport Helps Dual Citizens
At MyBritishPassport, we specialise in supporting UK citizens living overseas—including dual citizens. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Application Checks: We ensure your paperwork is complete and accurate to prevent rejections.
- Expert Guidance: Confused about which documents to submit? We walk you through every step.
- Faster Turnaround: We streamline the process to help you avoid the usual government delays.
- Global Support: No matter where you live, we can assist you with your UK passport renewal.
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your UK Passport as a Dual Citizen
- Start Your Application
Visit MyBritishPassport.com and select the service that suits your needs. - Email Your Documents
Provide a scanned copy of your current (or expired) UK passport, proof of dual nationality if needed, and your photo, as well as any other documents. - Review & Submit
Our experts check your application before submission to avoid any mistakes. - Track & Receive
We manage communication and tracking, so you’ll know exactly where your passport is at all times.
Recent Stats You Should Know
- The number of dual UK and another citizenship usual residents doubled from 613,000 (1.1%) in 2011 to 1,236,000 (2.1%) in 2021. These changes are likely tied to increases in the non-UK-born population since 2011. – ons.gov.uk
In Conclusion
Renewing your UK passport as a dual citizen shouldn’t be a stressful or uncertain experience. Let the experts at MyBritishPassport help you every step of the way—so you can travel, live, and plan your future with confidence.
‘I received clear instructions and advice on all aspects of the process. When something was missing or additional information was needed the requests were sent quickly and my responses acknowledged. Timeliness provided were met or exceeded. I had a great experience and recommend it to everyone.’ – Claire Rowlands via Google Reviews
