Using a chipped german ID card (Personalausweis) at e-passport-gates in the UK

Can I use a new, chipped german ID card (Personalausweis) at the e-passport-gates in the UK, e.g. at Heathrow airport? It has also a biometrical chip, but carries another symbol than the passport.

Best Answer

You must use a passport to use the ePassport gates

You’re from an EEA country and Switzerland

You can use the EU/EEA channel to get your passport or identity card checked - this is usually faster than the other channels.

You can use automatic ePassport gates at some airports if your passport has a ‘chip’ on it and you’re 12 or over. If you’re between 12 and 17, you must be accompanied by an adult.

These gates use facial recognition technology to check your identity against the photo in your passport.

https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control/at-border-control

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Can I use my EU ID card to enter UK?

You cannot use an EU , EEA or Swiss national ID card to enter the UK unless you: have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man's settlement schemes.

Can I travel with a German ID card?

Please note as a general rule that a German ID card is not a sufficient travel document outside of the EU . It is, therefore, highly recommened to also be in possession of a valid German passport.

Can UK citizens use EU passport gates?

While UK passport holders can no longer use the EU e-gates, three Portuguese airports have installed new sets of e-gates that UK passport holders can now use. The gates have been in operation since April 2022.

Are German ID cards biometric?

ID cards used in Germany and elsewhere in Europe include an integrated chip with the same biometric photo that is also visible on the front of the card. In the future, a second biometric characteristic will be registered: Fingerprints.

The German ID card: (nearly) all you need to know

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