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UK reaches deal with EU: British travelers soon eligible for eGate access

UK reaches deal with EU: British travelers soon eligible for eGate access
Policy
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British Airways | Official Website

Earlier today, the UK government announced a new agreement with the European Union (EU) that includes significant changes for British travelers. The deal will allow UK passport holders to use eGates at more airports in Europe, which is expected to speed up border crossings.

Since Brexit, UK passport holders have generally been required to have their documents manually stamped by border officers when entering EU countries. This has led to longer wait times compared to when they could use eGates before the UK's departure from the EU. However, some exceptions exist; certain airports in Portugal and Spain already permit UK passport holders to use eGates.

The new agreement aims to extend this convenience across more EU airports. A statement from the government confirmed: "British holidaymakers will be able to use more eGates in Europe, ending the dreaded queues at border control. Pets will also be able to travel more easily, with the introduction of ‘pet passports’ for UK cats and dogs, eliminating the need for animal health certificates for every trip."

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While no specific timeline was provided for implementing wider access to EU eGates for UK travelers, The Independent notes that this change aligns with upcoming European border reforms. In October, the EU plans to introduce a new Entry/Exit System (EES), reducing the need for non-EU passport holders' documentation stamping by using biometrics like fingerprints instead.

Currently, UK passport holders can visit EU countries visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Despite concerns about potential delays during the system's rollout, allowing British travelers easier access through eGates is expected to be beneficial due to Europe's significance as a market for UK airlines.

According to Cirium data, there are 107,547 scheduled flights between the UK and EU this month alone. British Airways has planned 15,192 flights between these regions in May 2025, making it one of the largest carriers on this route alongside easyJet and Ryanair.

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