Getting through passport control with kids in tow is one of those airport moments that can unravel even the most prepared family. The good news? Families returning to the UK can now get through much faster, as children aged eight and over are officially allowed to use eGates.
From 8 July 2026, the minimum age for using UK eGates has been lowered from 10 to eight. Eligible children can now travel through passport control alongside an accompanying adult, helping millions of families spend less time queuing after their holiday.
Here’s what you need to know about the changes.
Family at airport
What are the rules for children using e-gates?
There are two conditions your child needs to meet to use an e-gate. They must be at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall so the biometric scanner can read them correctly and an adult must accompany them at all times.
As long as those boxes are ticked, eligible children can pass through alongside you rather than joining the separate queue for manual passport checks.
If two adults are travelling with children, Border Force recommends using the eGates in this order:
• Adult 1
• Child or children
• Adult 2
If you’re travelling alone with children, the adult should use the eGate first, followed by the children
– READ MORE: What families need to know about the new EU entry system, EES –
How many more families does this affect?
The Home Office estimates that around 1.5 million additional children will become eligible to use eGates each year following the rule change.
Border Security Minister Alex Norris said the new rules would “make journeys easier for families with small children and reduce the hassle of travelling home after a holiday.”
Using an eGate typically takes just minutes, and allowing more families through them should also help reduce queues for passengers using staffed passport control.
– READ MORE: Families can now save on UK days out this summer thanks to VAT cuts –
Family at airport
Which airports have e-gates?
There are more than 290 eGates across UK airports, rail terminals and ports, helping millions of passengers clear border control in just a few minutes. EGates are currently installed at 13 UK airports:
- Birmingham
- Bristol
- Cardiff
- East Midlands
- Edinburgh
- Gatwick
- Glasgow
- Heathrow
- London City
- Luton
- Manchester
- Newcastle
- Stansted
They are also available at juxtaposed ports in Brussels and Paris, so families travelling by Eurostar will benefit from the change too.
If you’re travelling onwards to the EU, remember you’ll also need to complete the new Entry/Exit System (EES) border checks when entering the Schengen Area. Our guide explains what families need to know before they travel.
– READ MORE: New family-friendly hotels opening this summer 2026 –
The new rules came into effect on 8 July 2026
Which children can use UK eGates?
Children can now use UK eGates if they:
• are aged eight or over
• are at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall
• are travelling with an adult if they are under 18
• hold an eligible biometric passport and meet the normal nationality or immigration requirements for eGate use
E-GATE FAQs
What is the new minimum age for eGates?
Eight years old, lowered from 10.
When did the eGate change take effect?
8 July 2026. The new rules are now in force across UK airports and other UK entry points with eGates.
Is there a height requirement?
Yes. Children must be at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall.
Do children need to be with an adult?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Which airports have e-gates?
Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted, plus juxtaposed ports in Brussels and Paris.
Can children use eGates when arriving from Europe?
Yes. Eligible children can use UK eGates when arriving from any destination where eGate entry is available, provided they meet the age, height and passport requirements.
