UK airports introduce contactless eGates, but can Indian passport holders use them?

Travelling to the UK could become easier for eligible passengers as airports introduce a new immigration system designed to reduce waiting times. The UK began rolling out contactless eGates on October 6, allowing certain travellers to clear border checks using facial recognition without having to scan their passports at the gates.

The technology is expected to make immigration checks up to 25 per cent faster than the existing system. The rollout will gradually cover all UK airport eGates, with completion planned by early 2027.

However, Indian passport holders will have to wait. The new facility is initially available only to British citizens travelling on valid British passports, with plans to extend it to other nationalities already eligible to use eGates.

How will the new contactless eGates work?

Under the new system, eligible passengers can approach an eGate and have their photograph captured. Facial recognition technology compares the live image with verified passport, travel and immigration information before allowing the gate to open.

Unlike conventional eGates, the contactless system does not require passengers to scan their passports during the standard process. The change is intended to speed up immigration clearance while maintaining border security.

Passengers must still carry their passports, as additional checks may be required. Travellers could be asked to scan their documents at a reader or speak to a Border Force officer if further verification is necessary.

East Midlands Airport is leading the rollout, while Birmingham Airport is also among the first airports to introduce the technology. Other airports are expected to follow over the coming months.

Can Indian passport holders use contactless eGates?

No. Indian citizens are not currently eligible to use the UK's eGates under the existing nationality rules. The initial rollout of contactless technology does not change those eligibility requirements.

The facility is currently restricted to British citizens travelling on valid British passports. Although the UK intends to extend the system to other nationalities that already qualify for eGate access, Indian passport holders are not included in the eligible group at present.

What should Indian travellers know before flying?

Indian citizens travelling to the UK should continue to follow the usual immigration procedures. They must carry their passports and ensure their visa and other relevant travel documents are ready for inspection.

The introduction of contactless eGates may shorten queues for eligible passengers, but Indian travellers should not expect to use the new facility unless the UK updates its eligibility rules.