New travel rules are coming to UK travellers this week, meaning quicker journeys for families.
The changes to eGate rules at 13 airports across the country will allow more children to speed through passport control.
Previously, only children aged 10 and above could use eGates, a rule that was reduced from 12 years old in 2023.
What is the new eGate travel rule coming to UK airports this week?
The new rules are expected to benefit up to 1.5 million more children, based on 2025 UK arrival figures.
These children typically have to see a border force officer, so the change is anticipated to significantly speed up the process for families.
The adjustment will enable children aged eight and nine, who are at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall and accompanied by an adult, to use the automated gates.
The height restriction is due to the need for children to be able to see and be captured by biometric screens.
The expanded access will apply to more than 290 eGates in the UK, affecting 13 airports.
These are:
- London Heathrow
- London Gatwick
- London City
- London Luton
- London Stansted
- Manchester
- Birmingham
- Bristol
- East Midlands
- Newcastle
- Cardiff
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
The new rule will also apply to accompanying ports where border checks take place in Europe.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp, said: “Travel with young children can be stressful for parents.
“By expanding eGate access, more families can experience a swifter and smoother journey home – freeing up precious time this summer holiday season.
“We are delivering continued improvement to the passenger experience, while keeping our borders safe and secure.”
The rule change will not only apply to airports but also to other travel methods, such as Eurostar and the Eurotunnel.
People travelling from non-Schengen countries in Europe, along with the US, Australia, and Japan, will also be able to use the eGates.
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In addition to the UK, 48 EU airports will be allowing British holidaymakers to use eGates.
These include locations in popular holiday destinations such as Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal.
The change is set to come into effect from Wednesday (July 8).
What do you think of the new changes to eGates? Let us know in the comments.
