Can I use a Canadian passport to leave and re-enter the UK as I have misplaced my British one?
I have lost my British passport. I have dual citizenship and have a Canadian passport. I am due to go on a short trip to Europe shortly. Can I travel out off and back into the UK using my Canadian passport.
Best Answer
It's generally true that a citizen of a particular country has an absolute right to (re-)enter that country if they make it to the border, regardless of what documentation they do or don't have. Specifically this is true for the UK.
However, entry may not be a straightforward process. The traveler and border officials will have to find alternative evidence of the person's identity and nationality, which may be inconvenient and time consuming. These days the UK Border Force has access to databases with names, birthdates and photos which can make it easier than it was in the past. Some countries may levy a fine on their citizens for arriving without a valid passport from that country (the US used to do this, but no more - the UK does not).
Also, if not using a road border crossing, the airline or other transport provider may not allow the traveler to board without appropriate documentation - they'll usually check against "TIMATIC". That part is where your valid Canadian passport would come in handy in this situation. It would also help prove your identity at the border, even if it doesn't prove your British nationality.
Pictures about "Can I use a Canadian passport to leave and re-enter the UK as I have misplaced my British one?"
Can I enter UK on second passport?
There are no real restrictions or definitive rules on which passport you use to book a flight, or any other form of international travel whether via ferry or train. For example, the British passport may allow visa-free entry to more countries than your other passport.Can I enter the UK without my British passport?
You can enter the UK with one of the following identity documents: a passport. an Irish passport card. a national identity card issued by an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, if you're eligible to use one.Which passport should dual citizens use UK?
We recommend all dual nationals, including EU citizens, travel on their British passport or with evidence or their British citizenship to minimise any potential delay at the border or when commencing their journey.Can Canadian citizens enter UK without visa?
If you carry a full Canadian passport, you do not need a visa to visit the UK. You will get a stamp in your passport on arrival at LHR or LGW allowing you to stay as a visitor for up to six months.Exodus: I tried to fly to London on a fake passport - BBC News
More answers regarding can I use a Canadian passport to leave and re-enter the UK as I have misplaced my British one?
Answer 2
Theoretically you can enter the UK on a Canadian passport. But a Canadian passport only allows you to enter for a short visit. It doesn't allow you to live or work in the UK.
The problem will come when you return to the UK, and the immigration officer says "Why are you visiting Britain?". If you say "I live here", then they will deny you entry as Canadians need permission to live in the UK. If you claim to be a British citizen they will require you to demonstrate it. There can be alternative ways of proving your citizenship, although I am unclear how certain they are, and how much delay you might experience. Having the number of your lost passport, carrying an expired British passport and/or a birth certificate might be a good idea, as would being prepared for additional delay
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Ethan Wilkinson, Pixabay, vectors icon, Pixabay