Biometric and facial recognition border control systems are not only being rolled out across Europe, Menorca began last week and Palma airport will introduced the EES entry and exit system next week on November 19 for Britons coming to and from Mallorca and other third country visitors, similar systems are being rolled out across UK airports and ports.
As a result British travellers will soon skip passport queues as the UK expands facial recognition technology at border entry points. The new system aims to cut wait times and streamline border crossings. “Everyone is tightening up their border controls where they can across the world, including the UK. But everyone has an interest in that all border controls flow efficiently; I think it’s a very good decision to stagger it,” British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis, recently told the Bulletin.
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. 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.
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.
Phil Douglas, the director-general of Border Force, said that a recent trial at Manchester airport had significantly reduced processing times, making it quicker for Britons to go through border control when returning to the UK. The trial took place over a three-week period in October at Manchester airport, one of the busiest airports in the country. The trial was conducted exclusively for British passport holders, and the new technology was integrated into existing e-gates.