Contactless travel using eGates
Updated 6 October 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/getting-through-the-uk-border-faster/contactless-travel-using-egates
Contactless travel
Contactless travel is a new type of facial comparison technology we are introducing at the UK border, initially at airport eGates.
It verifies someone’s identity without requiring a passport to be placed on an eGate reader.
All immigration and security checks will continue as normal
Passengers must continue to travel with a valid passport.
This change allows eligible passengers to pass through the border smoothly, while maintaining UK border security.
Who can use contactless eGates
Initially, contactless eGates will be limited to British citizens only.
Other eGate eligible nationalities will be able to use them in the future.
Locations
A small number of contactless eGates are currently available at East Midlands Airport.
As part of a phased rollout, contactless eGates will be available at the following UK airports:
- Birmingham
- Bristol
- Cardiff
- East Midlands
- Edinburgh
- Gatwick
- Glasgow
- Heathrow
- London City
- Luton
- Manchester
- Newcastle
- Stansted
By early 2027, we expect contactless eGates will be available at all UK airports.
If a passenger cannot use contactless
If a passenger is unable to use contactless, it could be that further checks are required.
In these cases, passengers will be told to place their passport on the eGate reader to complete verification or they will be directed to a Border Force officer, as happens already.
eGate eligibility
The eGate eligibility remains unchanged.
If you are eGate eligible, you should continue to use the eGates to enter the UK.
We are exploring options to expand eGate use for the majority of passenger arrivals. Further information will be available when decisions have been made.