If you’re flying into or out of London Gatwick Airport (LGW), you’ve probably heard about the eGates. These automated passport control gates are designed to make your journey faster and more efficient. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or a first-time getting to Gatwick, understanding how the Gatwick eGates work can save you valuable time and reduce stress at immigration. In this guide, we have covered everything about the eGates at Gatwick, from who can use them to how they work, eligibility, ePassports and useful tips to ensure a smooth and swift experience.
What are Gatwick eGates?
Gatwick offers premium services like eGates, which are automated passport control systems designed to fast-track the immigration process for eligible passengers. The gates are equipped with biometric passport readers, enabling passengers to verify their identity quickly without requiring manual intervention from a Border Force officer. The system is efficient, secure, and designed to handle high volumes of passengers, ensuring that you spend less time waiting in lines and more time enjoying your journey.
There are eGates available at both Gatwick North Terminal and South Terminal. They are typically open during the peak times of arrival, but they are available 24/7 for certain flights, helping to accommodate early morning and late-night arrivals. This automated process ensures that you can enjoy a seamless entry into the UK.
How Do Gatwick eGates Work?
Using the Gatwick eGates is straightforward. Here’s how it works:
- Approach the eGate: Walk up to the eGate and stand in front of the scanner.
- Insert your passport: If you have an ePassport, you’ll need to insert it into the scanner, or if you have a biometric passport, place it on the reader.
- Face the camera: The gate will take a quick photo to match your biometric data.
- Green light: If everything checks out, the gate will open, and you’ll be free to proceed to the baggage reclaim area or the airport exit.
The process is quick, typically taking no more than 60 seconds, and provides a smooth and hassle-free way to clear UK Border Control.
Who Can Use Gatwick eGates?
The Gatwick eGates are available to certain eligible passengers. Here’s who can use them:
- UK Citizens with an ePassport
- European Economic Area (EEA) Citizens with an ePassport
- Swiss Nationals with an ePassport
- Non-EU Citizens who hold a biometric passport from select countries (the eligibility for non-EU citizens varies by nationality)
It’s important to note that children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult who is using the eGates.
If you are not eligible to use the eGates, you will need to go through manual passport control, where a Border Force officer will check your passport.
Gatwick eGate Eligibility for Children
Children can use the Gatwick eGates, but there are some rules to consider. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult using the eGates, and the child must also have their own ePassport or biometric passport. If the child doesn’t have the required passport, they will need to go through the manual immigration process. This is something to keep in mind when travelling with young children.
Gatwick eGates for Non-EU Citizens
Many non-EU passengers are eligible to use the Gatwick eGates, provided they have a biometric passport. This is particularly convenient for travellers from countries with visa-waiver agreements with the UK, including the USA, Canada, and Australia.
Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check whether your country is included in the list of those eligible for using the eGates. If you’re unsure, you can verify the eligibility through the UK Border Force website or ask an officer upon arrival.
Do You Need an ePassport for Gatwick eGates?
Yes, if you’re a UK or EU citizen, you need an ePassport to use the Gatwick e-Gates. The ePassport is a biometric passport that contains a microchip to store your personal information and biometric data. This allows the eGates to quickly verify your identity.
Non-EU passengers can also use eGates if they have a biometric passport, which is designed to work with the automated system. If you don’t have an ePassport, you’ll have to go through manual immigration control.
Gatwick eGate for Fast-Track Immigration
If you’re trying to speed up your entry into the Gatwick airport, using the eGates is one of the best options. With automatic passport control, you can bypass the long queues at traditional passport control and head directly to baggage claim or exit the airport.
The fast-track immigration process is especially useful for business travellers or passengers with tight flight connections. It saves time, reduces stress, and is far more efficient compared to standing in line for manual passport checks.
| Feature | Gatwick eGates | Normal Passport Control |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Available for UK, EU, Swiss, and select non-EU citizens with ePassports | Available for all passengers, regardless of passport type |
| Processing Time | 1 minute or less per person | Can take several minutes to an hour, depending on the queue size |
| Queues | Shorter queues, especially during peak hours | Longer queues, especially at peak times |
| Convenience | Direct access with no manual intervention from Border Force officers | Requires interaction with a Border Force officer for passport stamping |
| Facial Recognition | Biometric face scan for fast verification | No biometric recognition, manual checks for passport validity |
| Available 24/7 | Yes, at both North and South Terminals | Available only during immigration hours |
| Luggage Handling | You can keep luggage with you during the process | You must handle your luggage while waiting in line |
| Suitability | Available during peak hours for eligible travellers | Ideal for business travellers, families, and anyone in a rush |
| Fast-Track Access | Free for all travellers | Not available, you’ll have to wait in the general queue |
| Cost | Free for eligible travelers | Free for eligible travellers |
| Required Documentation | ePassport, biometric passport, and boarding pass | Valid passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass |
Documents You Need for the Gatwick eGates:
To use the Gatwick eGates, you’ll need the following:
- A valid ePassport or biometric passport
- A matching facial image (for facial recognition, your face will be compared with the biometric data in your passport)
- A boarding pass (if required for specific international arrivals)
It’s essential to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date in the UK. If there are any issues with your passport or biometric data, you may be directed to manual control.
How Long Does It Take to Use the Gatwick eGates?
The process of using the Gatwick Airport eGates is extremely fast. On average, it takes less than a minute for your ePassport to be scanned, your face to be verified, and the gate to open. However, the overall time spent depends on the number of passengers arriving and the availability of eGates at the time of your arrival.
During busy hours, there might be a slight wait, but the e-Gates are still faster than traditional immigration controls.
What If the Gatwick e-Gate Doesn’t Work?
Occasionally, there might be an issue with the eGate or your passport. If the system cannot verify your details, you will be directed to the manual immigration control. Don’t worry—this is a normal procedure, and it doesn’t mean you can’t enter the UK. A Border Force officer will assist you with your entry.
Smooth Transfers with TappAXI after Gatwick eGates
After passing through passport control, the last thing you want is a stressful transfer to your next destination. TappAXI ensures a hassle-free Gatwick airport taxi transfer with no waiting time. Whether you’re heading to Luton, Heathrow, or anywhere else, our drivers will be waiting for you at Gatwick arrivals, ready to assist you with your luggage and get you to your next flight or destination with ease.
FAQs
Can I use the Gatwick eGates if I don’t have an ePassport?
No, you must have an ePassport or biometric passport to use the eGates at Gatwick Airport. If you don’t have one, you will need to go through manual passport control.
How fast is the immigration at Gatwick using eGate?
The Gatwick eGates are designed to be quick and efficient. Typically, it takes less than a minute to pass through the gates, though this may vary depending on traffic.
Do children need an ePassport for Gatwick eGates?
Yes, children need an ePassport to use the Gatwick eGates. They must be accompanied by an adult using the eGates.
Can non-EU citizens use Gatwick eGates?
Yes, non-EU citizens can use the Gatwick eGates if they hold a biometric passport. Eligibility depends on your country of residence.
What documents do I need for Gatwick eGates?
You need a valid ePassport or biometric passport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
The Gatwick eGates are an easy and efficient way to clear immigration quickly, reducing wait times and helping you get to your destination faster. Whether you’re flying into the UK or travelling internationally, understanding how the eGates work can make your experience smoother. Book a ride from TappAXI for a hassle-free journey once you’ve passed through Gatwick immigration.
