From 6 October, eGates at UK airports will gradually switch to the new contactless technology, with every eGate set to be upgraded by early 2027. Testing shows the system is up to 25% faster than using a passport on an eGate.
How the contactless system works
Passengers approach an eGate and have their photo taken. The system checks this live image against verified immigration, travel and passport information. The eGate opens automatically once these checks are complete. The Home Office says the technology verifies identity before the UK’s border security checks are carried out in full.
If further checks are needed, passengers will need to place their passport on the reader or may be directed to a Border Force officer. Border Force officers will continue to monitor all eGates and offer assistance. Passengers must keep their passport with them at all times.
Rollout details and eligibility
The phased rollout starts at East Midlands Airport, initially for British citizens, before expanding to more airports and other nationalities already eligible for eGates. eGates are available at Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted. Dual nationals should travel on a valid British passport or hold a Certificate of Entitlement.
This change forms part of the government’s efforts to modernise the UK border, as set out in the Immigration White Paper. It builds on the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme and recent enforcement action that saw small boat arrivals in June, July and August 2026 at their lowest for six years.