egates

Egates, short for electronic gates, are automated border-control gates used at airports, seaports, and some land crossings to verify a traveler’s identity and authorize entry or exit. They combine passport data with biometric checks to speed up processing while maintaining security.

How they work: A traveler presents a passport or e-passport. The gate reads data from the document’s chip and may capture a live biometric—most commonly a facial image, and in some systems, fingerprints or iris scans. The gate’s software compares the live biometric with the stored data and checks against watchlists. If the match is successful and there are no alert signals, the gate opens for passage; if not, manual clearance is required.

Usage and scope: Egates are widely deployed in many countries and are typically available to travelers who hold eligible passports or visas and who have registered for biometric-enabled processing. They are used for both entry and exit processing and often supplement traditional manual checks rather than replacing them entirely.

Advantages: Egates can reduce queue times, increase throughput, and provide consistent processing. They can improve security by relying on biometrics and automated checks that are not easily impersonated.

Limitations and concerns: Not all travelers are eligible, and some populations may face accessibility issues. Errors or mismatches can cause delays. Privacy, data protection, and cross-border data-sharing concerns are associated with biometric systems, and governance standards vary by jurisdiction. Technical faults can temporarily disable the gates, requiring fallback to manual processing.