The transition to contactless eGates, which will see every eGate upgraded by early 2027, aims to deliver speedier and smoother journeys for passengers arriving in the UK. The new system uses state-of-the-art facial technology to verify a passenger's identity against immigration and passport information before the eGate opens automatically.
This upgrade is expected to be up to 25% faster than the current passport scanning method. The phased rollout begins at East Midlands Airport, initially for British citizens, before expanding to other airports and nationalities eligible for eGates in the coming months.
Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, stated, "By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security." He also noted the extension of eGates to children aged eight and above.
Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, welcomed the news, highlighting the importance of efficient borders and the role of UK airports in adopting new technologies. Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of East Midlands Airport, expressed delight at being the first airport to introduce the contactless eGates, complementing recent improvements to their immigration hall.
Chris Wilson, Head of Terminal & Capacity Planning at Birmingham Airport, also confirmed their airport's support for the new system, which will benefit customers arriving in the UK. The modernisation of the UK border includes other recent changes such as the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
The government's efforts to modernise the border also encompass wider enforcement actions. Data indicates that small boat arrivals have been at their lowest for six years during June, July, and August 2026, aided by a deal with France. Additionally, over 80,000 individuals without the right to remain in the UK have been removed or returned since the election, a 52% increase.
eGates are currently available at airports including Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, and Stansted. Passengers are reminded to keep their passports with them at all times, as they may still be required for further checks or directed to a Border Force officer.
