UK airport e-gates began switching to contactless passport checks on 6th October 2026. The phased rollout means some eligible passengers arriving in the UK may be able to walk through participating e-gates without placing their passport on the reader. The new system is being introduced gradually, so the process will not be available to everyone at every airport straight away.
The Home Office says the technology is designed to make arrivals quicker while maintaining border security. Here is what is changing, who may be able to use it and what travellers should do before flying.
At a glance
- What is changing: Some UK airport e-gates are introducing contactless identity checks using facial comparison technology.
- Started: 6th October 2026, with the rollout beginning at East Midlands Airport.
- Who can use it initially: British citizens arriving on a British passport at participating e-gates.
- Do you still need your passport? Yes. Keep a valid passport with you; you may still be asked to scan it or speak to a Border Force officer.
- What happens next: The rollout is expected to expand to more airports and eligible nationalities, with all UK airport e-gates expected to be upgraded by early 2027.
What is changing at UK airport e-gates?
Border Force is introducing contactless technology that can check a passenger’s identity using a live photograph and verified immigration, travel and passport information. If the checks are completed successfully, the e-gate can open without the passenger placing their passport on the reader.
The rollout began on 6th October 2026 at East Midlands Airport, initially for British citizens. The Home Office says the system will expand to more airports and other nationalities who are already eligible to use e-gates over the coming months. The aim is to upgrade every e-gate by early 2027.
Testing reported by the Home Office suggests the contactless process can be up to 25% faster than using a passport on an e-gate. Actual journey times will depend on the airport, passenger volumes and whether further checks are needed.
Who can use the new contactless checks?
At the start of the rollout, the system is initially for British citizens arriving in the UK on a British passport at participating e-gates. Eligibility and availability are expected to expand as the rollout progresses.
Do not assume that contactless checks will be available simply because an airport has e-gates. The system is being introduced in stages, and passengers may still be asked to use the passport reader or speak to a Border Force officer.
How does the new system work?
- Approach a participating e-gate and have your photograph taken.
- The system compares the live image with verified immigration, travel and passport information.
- If the checks are completed successfully, the gate opens without you needing to place your passport on the reader.
- If further checks are needed, you may be asked to scan your passport or be directed to a Border Force officer.
Border Force officers will continue to monitor e-gates and assist passengers. The new process does not remove border checks; it changes how identity can be verified at the gate.
Do you still need to take your passport?
Yes. Keep your valid passport with you throughout your journey. You may be asked to present it if the contactless system is not available, if additional checks are required or if an officer needs to examine your documents. Do not travel on the assumption that you can leave your passport in your luggage or at home.
Which airports are involved?
The Home Office says the rollout begins at East Midlands Airport, with Birmingham also among the first airports to introduce the technology. The wider e-gate network includes airports such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and others, but contactless availability is being introduced gradually and should not be assumed at every location.
Check the latest official information and follow airport and Border Force instructions for your particular journey.
What should travellers do now?
- Bring your valid passport and keep it accessible.
- Follow the signs and instructions at the arrival hall.
- Expect to use the usual passport reader if contactless processing is not available or you are asked to complete further checks.
- If you are travelling with children or people who may need assistance, allow time for the usual arrival procedures and follow staff guidance.
- Check official guidance before travelling if you need to confirm whether the new process applies to you.
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Why is the change being introduced?
The government says contactless e-gates are part of a wider programme to modernise the UK border. The intention is to make routine arrivals smoother while retaining identity verification and security checks. The rollout is phased, so passengers should expect a transition period while airports and eligible groups are added.
Official guidance
For the latest information, consult the official sources below:
