Anyone who has travelled internationally knows that getting through immigration after a long flight can sometimes mean standing in another queue. However, the UK is now introducing contactless e-gates that could make the process quicker. From October 6, 2026, British citizens arriving at participating UK airports can use new contactless e-gates that allow them to clear immigration without physically scanning their passports. Scroll on to know more about this.
What Are Contactless E-Gates At UK Airports & How Do They Work?
According to NDTV, East Midlands Airport became the first UK airport to introduce the technology this month. The phased rollout is expected to extend to Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted airports.
By early 2027, the UK government expects all airport e-gates to have been upgraded, although access to the contactless facility will depend on passenger eligibility.
Unlike conventional e-gates, which require passengers to place their passports on a scanner, the new system in the UK uses facial recognition technology to verify a traveller’s identity.
Here is how it works:
- Passengers approach the e-gate, where a live photograph of their face is taken.
- The system compares the image with verified passport, travel and immigration information.
- Once the identity checks are completed successfully, the gate opens automatically, allowing the passenger to walk through without scanning their passport.
According to UK authorities, testing suggests the new system could be up to 25% faster than conventional e-gates. However, immigration and security checks will continue as usual. If the system cannot verify someone’s identity or additional checks are required, the passenger may be asked to scan their passport or speak to a Border Force officer.
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Can Indian Passport Holders Use The New E-Gates?
Unfortunately, not initially. The contactless system is currently available only to British citizens travelling on valid British passports. The UK government plans to extend access to other nationalities already eligible to use e-gates in the future.
Since Indian passport holders are not generally eligible to use UK e-gates under the standard nationality-based rules, this new facility will not be available to most Indian travellers at the outset. Those who qualify under a separate existing scheme should check their eligibility.
Also Read: India’s Rampur Whisky Lands In 4 Major UK Airports, From Heathrow To Birmingham
For now, Indian travellers should not assume they can skip passport scanning when arriving in the UK. While the new system promises a quicker immigration experience for eligible passengers, the usual checks remain in place for those who cannot use it.
Cover Image Courtesy: website/gov.uk
FAQs
What are contactless e-gates at UK airports?
Contactless e-gates are automated immigration gates that use facial recognition technology to verify travellers' identities without requiring them to scan their passports.
How will the new UK contactless e-gates work?
Travellers will approach the gate for a live facial image to be captured. The system will compare it with verified passport, travel and immigration information before opening the gate automatically.
Can Indian passport holders use the new UK contactless e-gates?
No, not initially. The system is currently limited to British citizens travelling on valid British passports. The UK plans to extend access to other nationalities already eligible to use e-gates.