UK to introduce facial-recognition e-gates that bypass passports by early 2027

Starting early 2027, every UK airport is set to install contactless e-gates that verify a traveller’s identity through facial-recognition technology, allowing passage without placing a passport on the reader. The first deployment occurred this week at East Midlands Airport, where a camera captures a live image and cross-checks it against verified immigration and passport records; the gate opens automatically once clearance is given.

Passengers must still hold their passports, and if the system flags a need for further verification they will be asked to insert the document or be directed to a Border Force officer. The Home Office says the new system can process arrivals up to 25% faster than the traditional passport-on-e-gate method. The rollout will begin with British citizens and later include other eligible travelers, with airports such as Birmingham joining the scheme. Officials highlighted that the change maintains robust border security while improving the passenger experience.