From Wednesday, July 8, children aged eight and nine will be allowed to use electronic passport gates (eGates) at major UK airports for the first time, provided they are at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall and travelling with an accompanying adult. The change expands access to more than 290 eGates across 13 UK airports and juxtaposed ports in Brussels and Paris, where border checks take place in Europe.
Which airports are affected?
The new rule applies at Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted airports, as well as at juxtaposed ports in Brussels and Paris. Previously, children under 10 were not permitted to use eGates and had to go through staffed passport control, often resulting in longer waits for families.
Impact on families and passenger numbers
The Home Office expects the change to make journeys through passport control quicker and easier for families during the busy summer holiday period. Based on 2025 UK arrival figures, officials estimate that approximately 1.5 million more children will become eligible to use eGates over the next year as a result of the age reduction. Millions of passengers already use UK eGates each year.
Government and industry reaction
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."
Karen Dee, Chief executive of AirportsUK, the trade body for UK airports, said: "This is a welcome development as it will give more families the ability to take advantage of this technology, speeding up the border process and reducing waiting times for many. Airports work very hard with border authorities to ensure the UK’s front door is both secure and welcoming, with those coming home and visiting enjoying a smooth experience."
Practical details
Children must be at least 120cm tall to use the eGates, and must be accompanied by an adult. The rule change takes effect from Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
