UK 0A boarding response: passport checks still apply

Match the response to the passport

Home Office carrier guidance updated on 26 October 2026 clarifies the checks associated with a 0A “board” response. The response may be accepted as evidence of permission to travel when it was generated against the document actually being used for the journey. Official source.

A response associated with another passport is not interchangeable. The carrier must still check that the travel document is genuine and valid and that the passenger is its rightful holder. Digital permission does not replace identity verification.

A check message needs assessment

The guidance also addresses 0Z or 0B “check” messages for passengers presenting physical evidence. Valid, genuine physical proof can remain satisfactory evidence of permission to travel in the circumstances described. A check message should not automatically be described as a refusal.

The carrying company decides whether to carry a passenger. Border Force separately decides admission on arrival. Neither a boarding response nor a boarding pass guarantees that the traveller will be admitted to the UK.

Resolve document changes before travel

Hypothetically, a traveller replaces a passport but their digital record still links to the old document. Before departure, they should use the official account or support process to resolve the mismatch rather than rely on an old screenshot.

The useful evidence is the current passport, the linked immigration record and the relevant official correspondence. Carriers should retain an appropriate record of the checks and the document against which the response was generated.

Keep transit questions separate

Advokato’s earlier transit analysis addresses a different question: the documents needed for a particular transit journey. The October 26 clarification concerns how a digital boarding response is tied to the travel document.

Check the complete itinerary, current permission and document details together. If a problem appears at check-in, obtain the stated reason and use the appropriate official assistance channel. Do not assume either an automatic right to board or an automatic refusal from one code alone.

Legal check date

Sources and law checked on 28 October 2026. Later developments are not reflected automatically. Application of the rules depends on the individual facts.