British holidaymakers returning to the UK this October half term may encounter a "contactless border" at certain airports, where new technology allows them to pass through border control without showing their passport.
New e-gate technology at UK airports
The new e-gates use facial recognition and are being rolled out at some UK borders, enabling British passport holders to pass through without taking their passport out of their bag or pocket. On October 6, 2026, East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport became the first to deploy the technology, with the rollout expected to be completed by early 2027.
The technology was successfully trialled for three weeks at Manchester Airport in October last year. It works by airlines sending Border Force passport photos of British passengers due to land that day, which the gates match against the traveller's face.
Impact on arrivals and staff
The new system is expected to speed up arrivals in the UK. According to Border Force director general Phil Douglass, it will free up staff to tackle other issues such as crime, safeguarding and drugs.
While travellers may not need to remove their passport from their bag or pocket, Brits are warned that they must still have their passport with them in the airport, and the strict rules regarding its validity still apply.
Travel expert advice
Amber Moon, travel expert at Holidaysafe, said: "Walking straight through the e-gates without digging around for your passport sounds like a breeze, and it'll be a welcomed change for those who have queued at UK arrivals before. But you certainly shouldn't be leaving your passport at home!"
Moon added: "Every country has its own regulations, and as of October 2026 the new 'contactless border' e-gates will only apply when you arrive back in the UK, and only in Birmingham and East Midlands airports. You'll still need your passport to check in, board the flight, and enter the country you're travelling to, so it matters just as much. Ensure your passport is valid for the country you're visiting, keep it somewhere secure during travel and your stay, and ensure your travel insurance policy covers a lost or stolen passport for extra security."
Holidaymakers have been urged to check their passport is valid before booking, pack their passport in hand luggage, always keep a copy of their passport, be prepared if their passport goes missing, and check their travel insurance policy.
