The UK government has announced ongoing negotiations with the EU to allow British tourists to use EU electronic passport gates again, potentially ending long waits at staffed border desks. If an agreement is reached, UK travelers will be able to bypass the “other nations” queues and instead use the fast-track e-gates usually reserved for EU/EEA citizens, significantly reducing border crossing times and improving travel convenience.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK’s Minister for EU Relations leading the talks, highlighted that this move would benefit British tourists by giving them more time for holidays and business trips within the EU, while also supporting jobs and border security. He emphasized the practical approach of aligning some UK rules with EU standards to facilitate the agreement.

Currently, British passport holders, classified as visa-exempt third-country nationals since Brexit, must use the slower “other nations” lanes at EU border controls where their passports are stamped, often leading to delays. Though some EU airports have introduced e-gates for third-country nationals, UK travelers cannot access these without a formal deal.

Additionally, the UK government aims to rejoin the EU pet passport scheme, which would simplify travel for pet owners. Having left the scheme in 2021, UK citizens currently face stricter regulations and fees to travel with dogs, cats, and ferrets. Rejoining would ease these requirements and promote smoother pet travel across Europe.