UK Sets New eGate Requirements for Travelers

The UK government has established two additional requirements for travelers from seven fast-tracked countries who wish to use automatic eGates at British border control. To qualify, travelers must hold a biometric passport, possess a valid digital immigration status or digital exemption record where necessary, and be at least eight years old.

The two specific requirements include a height threshold of 120 centimeters, which is essential for the biometric scanning equipment to accurately read facial features, and a stipulation that minors must be accompanied by an adult. For travelers who do not meet the eGate criteria, the standard manual border control process remains in effect, where passports and visas are checked by a border officer, and visitors must explain the purpose of their visit.

Citizens from other African countries, such as Ghana and Kenya, are not included in the eligible list and must continue using the standard manual process upon arrival in the United Kingdom.