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

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."