The UK is introducing new contactless technology at airport eGates, allowing eligible travellers to pass through immigration checks without presenting their passports.
The phased rollout began on October 6, with all eGates expected to be upgraded by early 2027.
According to a UK government press release, passengers will be able to approach an eGate and have their photo taken. The system will compare the live image with verified immigration, travel and passport information, opening automatically once the checks are complete.
If further checks are needed, passengers may be asked to scan their passports or be directed to a Border Force officer.
The rollout began at East Midlands Airport for British citizens and will expand to other airports and nationalities already eligible to use eGates over the coming months.
The technology will be introduced at airports including Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.
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