Official source: Airports to go contactless in major boost for UK passengers, Home Office, 6 October 2026.
The UK has started upgrading its airport eGates to a contactless system. Instead of placing your passport on a reader, the gate takes a live photo and compares it with your passport and immigration record, then opens if the checks pass. The Home Office says testing showed it is up to 25% faster.
Who can use it, and when
- The switch began on 6 October 2026 at East Midlands Airport, and every eGate is due to be upgraded by early 2027.
- At first, contactless eGates are for British citizens only. Other nationalities that can already use eGates will follow over the coming months.
- You still need to travel with a valid passport. If the gate needs more checks, it will ask you to scan your passport or send you to a Border Force officer.
What this means for travellers from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Nepal
Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi and Nepali passports are not among the nationalities that can use UK eGates, so this change does not affect how you enter the UK as a visitor. You will still queue for a Border Force officer, who checks your visa, passport and the reason for your trip.
If you are a dual national with a British passport, travel on the British passport (or hold a Certificate of Entitlement) to avoid delays, as the Home Office advises.
What to do
- Keep your visa (or eVisa details), return ticket, accommodation details and invitation letter easy to show at the border.
- If you are visiting the UK, check our [UK visitor visa guides](/guides.php) for fees, documents and visa centres.
- Check the official announcement before you travel, as eligibility will widen over time.