Border Force is set to begin testing technologies to allow some passengers to enter the UK and undergo automated border screening without going through an eGate or speaking to a Border Force officer.

Passengers would instead undergo pre-screening and be identified at the border using the latest technology.

Home Secretary Priti Patel also announced an intention to lower the minimum age of eGate usage from 12 to 10 years old, speeding up the processing of UK families.

For non-UK arrivals, Electronic Travel Authorisations will allow more international visitors to use eGates. The Home Office said Digital Customer Accounts “will help customers applying for visas have a more streamlined process with clearer access to eVisas needed for travel”.

It added: “This new digital system will mean we will understand more about the people coming to the UK before they travel, helping to improve security as well as queue times at the border.”

Patel said: “As Home Secretary I have been focused on taking back control of our immigration system through my New Plan for Immigration.

“This includes ensuring we have a border that is fit for the 21st century which allows travellers to get a visa and pass through the border easily, while maintaining national security.

“I am also committed to ensuring our fantastic Border Force are given access to the most up to date automation technologies so they can use their specialised skills on protecting our border from those who seek to harm the UK.”