British travellers will soon skip passport queues as the UK expands facial recognition technology at border entry points. Trials are underway at four British ports, with plans to extend to the Eurostar and UK airports. The new system aims to cut wait times and streamline border crossings.
How the Technology Works
High-powered cameras capture a traveller’s face and match it to biometric data stored in their passport. At ports, the system also verifies vehicle number plates, allowing passengers to remain in ‘contactless corridors’ without leaving their cars.
These cameras work through windscreens, letting passengers stay seated during verification. In some cases, they may need to roll down a window and look at a screen for a closer scan. However, most travellers will pass through without manual passport checks.
Passengers must still carry their passports in case of technical issues. If needed, a Border Force officer can conduct a manual check.
Part of the UK’s Border Security Upgrades
The new system aligns with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, which requires visa-free foreign visitors to submit biometric data before travel. The UK government stores this data in a secure database, making future expansion to international travellers possible.
Only flagged ‘persons of interest’ will face manual checks. Everyone else can pass through quickly, reducing congestion at entry points.
Faster Travel, Shorter Queues
The goal is to eliminate long border wait times, especially during peak travel seasons. Currently, ferry companies advise passengers to allow 90 minutes for passport control at ports. Facial recognition technology could cut this time dramatically, improving efficiency for both holidaymakers and business travellers.
At airports, the system will eventually replace eGates and manual passport checks. British travellers will simply walk through border control without stopping.
What’s Next?
If trials succeed, the full rollout could happen within a year. The technology will first expand across ports and train routes before reaching UK airports.
Biometric security firm iProov has developed the system to verify passengers inside vehicles, linking them to their car details. This innovation aims to modernise UK border security while ensuring fast and accurate processing.
A Home Office spokesperson stated:
“We use a wide range of technology to protect our border but do not comment on specific trials.”
The UK government is pushing for a modern, efficient border system. With facial recognition technology, travel will become faster, safer, and more convenient.