New Zealand’s insurance ombudsman has urged travellers who hold dual citizenship with the UK or Ireland to check their documentation, to avoid falling foul of new entry requirements.  

From February 25, dual citizens travelling to the UK and Ireland will need to enter on their British or Irish passports instead of their NZ ones. The same rule applies to Australian dual citizens.

The rule adds another layer of complexity to UK travel, following changes last year that require people without a visa or immigration status to obtain an electronic travel authorisation before entering.

A similar rule is expected to be introduced for New Zealanders travelling to the EU next year.

Insurance and financial services ombudsman Karen Stevens says travellers must stay informed about the changes, warning those caught out are unlikely to be covered by their travel insurance for delays or cancellations.

“Airlines won’t generally make their customers aware of entry and passport requirements. It really is the responsibility of the traveller to make sure they know what they need,” Ms Stevens said.  

“With these new requirements, it’s really important to take the time to confirm what you need before you go, and to allow enough time to get the necessary documentation.

“Travel insurance is generally pretty good at covering mishaps and unexpected disruptions, but this is a common exclusion that people need to be aware of.”