The UK government has announced a major change to its border processing system by lowering the minimum age for using automated passport eGates from 10 to 8 years.
Under the new rules, effective from July 8, 2026, children aged 8 and 9 will be able to use eGates when entering the UK, provided they are at least 120 cm (3 ft 11 in) tall, are accompanied by an adult, and hold an eligible biometric passport.
The change is expected to benefit around 1.5 million additional children each year, helping families move through UK border control more quickly during busy travel periods.
According to the UK Home Office, the move is aimed at reducing queues at staffed immigration counters and improving the travel experience for families by making greater use of automated border technology.
The new policy will apply across the UK's major airports and rail ports equipped with eGates. Children must continue to meet all eligibility requirements, including travelling with an accompanying adult and using a biometric passport from a country eligible for the UK's eGate system.
