Arriving in the UK (Passport Control and Customs)
Bristol Airport endeavours to provide both a warm welcome to visitors to the South West and a convenient return home for local passengers after a trip away. However, the UK Border Agency manages all border control points, enforcing immigration and customs regulations, and the safety and security of the UK must, understandably, be its top priority.
UK Border Agency officers scan passports and cross-check passenger details to ensure that only those eligible to enter the country can do so. New technology enabling all passports to be scanned on entry into the UK has enhanced border security, but can result in slightly longer waiting times at ports across the country. You can help UK Border Agency officers by having your passport open to the photograph page and ready for examination by the time you reach the inspection point.
Passengers not holding a British, EU or European Economic Area passport must complete a landing card provided by the airline they are travelling with. This should be provided by the airline during the flight to the UK.
Automated Passport gates
By using the latest technology the UK Border Agency can now provide faster checks for some passengers while maintaining border security. An automated gate system is in place at Bristol Airport and can be used by passengers over the age of 18 with an ePassport containing an electronic chip.
The state-of-the-art ‘E-gates’ scan passengers’ faces and check them against their passport photo, allowing a smooth and efficient journey through the UK border for legitimate passengers while making it more difficult to enter the country illegally or for criminal purposes.
Arriving passengers wishing to take advantage of the automated passport gates can do so between the following times:
10.30 and 12.30
17:00 and 18:30
21:00 and 23:00
Click here to find out more about the ePassport.
For more information about the UK Border Agency log onto the Home Office website.
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