UK families planning holidays abroad this summer can look forward to potentially quicker journeys through border control, as access to eGates is being expanded to include more young children. From now on, children aged eight and nine years old will be eligible to use the automated passport checkpoints upon arrival in the UK, a move anticipated to ease congestion during peak travel periods.
Previously, eGates were only accessible to individuals aged 10 and over, or those holding a specific type of passport. This latest change means that a broader age range of young travellers will be able to bypass traditional manned desks, provided they meet the necessary criteria. To use an eGate, children must be accompanied by an adult, and both must possess a valid biometric passport.
The expansion is a significant development for families, particularly as the summer holiday season approaches. It is expected to reduce queuing times at UK airports and other ports of entry, making the return journey home smoother and less stressful for parents travelling with multiple children. The technology scans passports and uses facial recognition to verify identity, offering a faster alternative to manual checks by Border Force officers.
This initiative follows previous expansions of eGate eligibility and reflects an ongoing effort to modernise border processes and improve efficiency. The UK Border Force manages eGates at various airports and international rail terminals across the country. While the system is designed for speed and convenience, Border Force officers remain on hand to assist travellers and manage any issues that may arise.
For families, the key benefit lies in the potential to keep groups together and move more quickly through arrival halls, especially after long flights or journeys. Parents should ensure their children understand how to use the eGate, although clear instructions are typically provided at each station. The requirement for a biometric passport is crucial; older, non-biometric passports will still necessitate a manual check.