8 and 9-year-olds now eligible to use eGates

9th July 2026

The UK Government has announced that children aged 8 and 9 can now use eGates at major UK airports and at international rail terminals. Previously, only travellers aged 10 and over were allowed to use them.

Why the change was made
To speed up family travel through airports.

To reduce queues at passport control during busy periods.

To make better use of the UK’s expanded network of eGates.

Where this applies
Children aged 8 and 9 can now use eGates at:

Heathrow

Gatwick

Stansted

Luton

London City

Manchester

Birmingham

Bristol

East Midlands

Edinburgh

Glasgow

Newcastle

International rail terminals (Eurostar)

Who can use eGates
The rules remain the same:

UK passport holders

EU/EEA citizens

US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea passport holders

Children must be travelling with adults who can supervise them.

Government’s reasoning
The Home Office says the change will:

Improve the passenger experience

Reduce pressure on Border Force staff

Help manage peak‑season travel demand