eGates are automated machines that check your passport and other travel documents. They use advanced technology to verify your identity and ensure that your documents are valid. This means you don’t have to wait in long lines to see an immigration officer.

The new eGates can be used by passport holders from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (UK). You must be over 18 years old to use them. Last year, over four million passengers used the eGates at Dublin Airport.

The Irish government wants to modernize its immigration processes. Justice Minister Helen McEntee announced a new contract to upgrade the existing eGates. The goal is to provide a more secure and efficient service for travellers. The new eGates will help process passengers quickly while still conducting thorough security checks.

There are currently 10 eGates in each of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport. There are also five eGates in the passenger Transfers Facility. These locations will all get the upgraded eGates.

The first eGates were installed at Dublin Airport in December 2017. They have been a key part of the airport’s immigration control system ever since. The eGates help manage the flow of passengers and ensure that security checks are done efficiently.

For travelers, this means a faster and smoother experience when arriving at Dublin Airport. You can expect shorter wait times and a more streamlined process. The upgraded eGates will make it easier for eligible passengers to clear immigration and get on with their journey.

Justice Minister McEntee emphasized that using technology like eGates is crucial for providing a modern and effective immigration service. The new contract ensures that Dublin Airport can continue to offer a high level of security and efficiency for all travellers.

Innovative Technology to Streamline Passenger Processing

The upgraded eGates are designed as self-service points that will allow passport holders from the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the UK, aged 18 and above, to clear immigration controls swiftly and efficiently. This move is part of the broader strategy by the Department’s Border Management Unit to modernize immigration processes, facilitating a smoother, more streamlined entry into Ireland.

Last year alone, over four million passengers were processed through the existing eGates at Dublin Airport. The introduction of the ABC eGates in December 2017 marked a significant shift towards leveraging technology to enhance security measures and passport validation processes.

A Step Towards Modernizing Immigration

The airport currently houses 10 eGates at each arrival section of Terminals 1 and 2, with an additional five eGates available in the passenger Transfers Facility. Minister McEntee highlighted the importance of these upgrades: “By modernizing our immigration processes and utilizing cutting-edge technology like Automated Border Control eGates, we are setting new standards in providing efficient services to our customers while ensuring stringent security checks.”

The new contract underscores the commitment to maintain a smooth flow of passengers through Dublin Airport, supporting both Irish and international travelers in their journeys.