Obtained citizenship since last trip abroad

[Beantownbabe 1]

Hi all,

I'm looking for someone to give me a definitive answer to my question -- which has probably been asked before but I *really* need it clarified.

Last time I went to the UK I wasn't a citizen yet, so used my UK passport. This time, I will be going as a US citizen with a US passport -- both passports are valid, obviously. I hear people say "enter on this or that passport" etc., but what does it mean exactly? If I wanted to use my UK passport to enter, does it mean showing my US passport here at the airport, then once I land, joining the UK citizen line and showing THAT passport? Is that even allowed? I will be traveling with my 7 year-old USC, so I just don't know what I should be doing! Does it make life easier for us to just stick with the US passport and kiss faster entrance lines goodbye?! Would love to hear from anyone who has 'been there, done that…!'

[JohnR! 5,495]

Simple. Use your UK passport at immigration upon arriving in the UK, as you have done all your life. On the way back, present your UK passport at the passport control desk at the departure airport. Then, upon embarkation, inside the jetway you may need to show your US passport as evidence you are who you are and you are authorized to enter the US. Upon arrival in the US, present the US immigration with your US passport, as you will enter the US as an American. At the check in counter, for the airline, show both passports.

As a rule of thumb, use the passport of the country whither you are traveling as you head in that direction.

Bon boyage!

Edited January 26, 2014 by Gegel

[Beantownbabe 1]

Thanks a lot! I needed it broken down like that! Now, will adding my daughter to the mix mess that plan up though, since she is a USC? We're a package deal, y'know! I'm assuming since she's a minor, they'll just take us, regardless?

[JohnR! 5,495]

Your daughter changes nothing. She gets to tag along with you, entering the UK, for you can get in the faster line reserved for British & EU citizens.

When I travel with my wife we always do that as I get the benefit if traveling with a EU citizen...

[Beantownbabe 1]

Hooray! Thanks SO much Gegel -- an awesome perk for sure!!!