We mentioned this was coming, it has arrived! When flying one should try to avoid Heathrow anyway, but if you do land, or transit there, things have become a tiny bit easier!
The change will also apply to citizens from Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the United States.
The move is designed to speed up border controls for “low-risk countries”. Sayonara, lengthy London Heathrow queues.
The gates, which use facial recognition technology to check passenger identity, can be used by those aged 18 and over, and who are travelling using a biometric or ‘chipped’ passport.
Those aged 12 to 17, and who are accompanied by an adult, are also able to use them.
“Our new global immigration and border system will improve security and fluidity for passengers coming to visit or work in the UK,” Home Secretary Sajid Javid said. “Expanding the use of ePassport gates is a key part of this and allows us to improve the passenger experience of those arriving in the UK while keeping our border secure.” “The new system will help to drive our economy, cement our reputation as a global leader and send a clear message to the world – the UK is open for business.”
There are currently 264 ePassport gates in operation at 15 air and rail terminals in the UK.
