A major passport change for all passengers at Gatwick Airport has been implemented this week.
Passengers arriving at the Sussex airport can now pass through eGates without showing their passports.
The change comes as part of a nationwide rollout of contactless border technology that will eventually cover all UK airport eGates by early 2027.
As of October 6, the new system uses facial recognition to match travellers’ identities against immigration, travel, and passport records, streamlining entry and reducing wait times.
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New passport rules at Gatwick Airport eGates
Phil Douglas, director general of Border Force, said: “This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.
“By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security.
“Our digital transformation also builds on our work this summer to extend eGates to children aged eight and above, making life a little easier for families.”
Under the new process, passengers will simply approach the eGate and have their photo taken.
The system will then compare the live image to official records, allowing entry without the need to present a physical passport—unless additional checks are required.
In such cases, travellers may be asked to scan their passport or speak to a Border Force officer.
Passengers are still advised to keep their passport with them at all times.
Early testing indicates the new system is up to 25% faster than the current eGate process.
The initial rollout began at East Midlands Airport for British citizens and will gradually expand to other airports and eligible nationalities in the coming months.
Gatwick Airport, along with Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, and Stansted, will be included in the upgrade.
Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, said: “This will be excellent news for the passenger and demonstrates how UK airports continue to be at the forefront of new technologies to keep our borders safe, while improving the travelling experience.
“It is vital that we have the fast, efficient borders that arrivals into the UK now expect, and we will work closely with our members and government officials to ensure a smooth rollout.”
The new system is part of wider efforts to modernise the UK border, as outlined in the government’s Immigration White Paper.
Other recent updates include the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which helps officials identify potential security risks before travel.
Travellers with dual nationality are reminded to enter the UK on a valid British passport or hold a Certificate of Entitlement to avoid delays at the border.
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eGates are already used by millions each year as the fastest route through UK border control, and officials believe the new contactless technology will further improve efficiency.
Border Force officers will continue to monitor all eGates and provide assistance as needed.
The introduction of contactless eGates is expected to improve the passenger experience at Gatwick and across the UK, offering a quicker and more seamless entry process while maintaining high security standards.
What do you think of the new eGate changes? Let us know in the comments.
