British families travelling internationally this summer are set to benefit from a new Home Office policy allowing children aged 10 and 11 to use eGates at UK airports. This significant update, announced ahead of the peak holiday season, aims to streamline the border control process and reduce queuing times for thousands of passengers.
Previously, only individuals aged 12 and over were permitted to use the automated eGates, meaning families with younger children often had to join longer queues for manual passport checks. The expansion of eGate eligibility to include 10 and 11-year-olds is expected to alleviate congestion, particularly during busy periods such as school holidays, making arrivals and departures smoother for many.
The change applies to British citizens, as well as those from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, and the USA, who hold valid biometric passports. Passengers using eGates must still ensure their passport is valid for travel and meets the requirements of their destination country.
There are over 280 eGates currently operational at 15 air and rail ports across the UK, including major hubs like London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh. The Home Office stated that the decision was made following a successful trial and aims to enhance efficiency without compromising border security.
For UK travellers planning their summer holidays, destinations popular with British tourists include Spain, Greece, and Portugal. While these countries do not require a visa for short stays, travellers should always check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for their destination, which provides up-to-date information on safety, security, and entry requirements. A typical seven-night package holiday to the Mediterranean can cost between £600 and £1,500 per person, depending on the destination, accommodation, and time of year. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, often costing from £20-£50 for a single trip.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise border systems and improve passenger flow at UK entry points, particularly as international travel continues to rebound. The move is anticipated to be welcomed by parents and guardians, who have often cited long queues as a significant stress factor when travelling with younger children.
Source: Home Office