United Kingdom rolls out contactless border control technology

The United Kingdom has begun the phased deployment of a contactless border control system across 13 international airports. Utilizing Amadeus ‘Seamless Gates’ technology, the system allows eligible travelers to pass through electronic gates (eGates) using facial comparison technology rather than scanning physical passports.

The process involves capturing a photo of the passenger as they approach the gate and comparing it against verified immigration, travel, and passport data. If successful, the gate opens automatically. Physical passport scanning or manual inspection by UK Border Force agents is only required if additional verification is necessary. East Midlands Airport is already operational, and all UK eGates are expected to be updated with this technology by early 2027.

Currently, the system supports British and Irish citizens with biometric passports, as well as nationals from the EU and partner nations including the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and several others. The UK government is currently examining ways to expand the use of automated eGates to a wider range of arrivals, including more holders of indefinite leave to remain.