For Americans, traveling to new places has gotten a lot simpler. As the customary complexity associated with border control, like interrogation and passport stamping, becomes a thing of the past, they now enjoy expedited entry across a number of countries:
Americans can now use e-Gates, a benefit not previously available to foreign tourists, whether they land in the Mexican Caribbean or at certain points of entry in Europe. Essentially, this means that individuals can enter a new country without talking to an agent or standing in a long line by simply being scanned.
Called the “Automated Border Control System,” they have proven to be a useful tool for strengthening borders by helping screen passengers in a more secure and consistent manner and ensuring they are properly registered upon arrival and departure. They are also cost-effective and ensure that operations continue without interruption even during staff shortages.
Where Can Americans Use e-Gates In 2023?
Many countries around the world have invited Americans to use e-gates after determining that U.S. citizenship poses little risk of unauthorized migration. In addition to Mexico, U.S. passport holders traveling to Europe can check in at designated checkpoints in a number of countries, including Portugal, France, Italy and the United Kingdom, to name a few.
While the United Kingdom has exempted Americans from manual screening at up to 15 hubs, France has opened e-gates for Americans at all major entry points, including the busiest airports in France, Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Americans who are at least 14 years old can access the Fast Track lane in Italy at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport and at least five other airports.
In Australia, visitors from a limited number of nations who have an ePassport that displays a small camera icon at the bottom of the front cover and are at least 16 years old are allowed to use the e-gate.
American citizens are now among those approved to use e-gates in Kuala Lampur, so Malaysia will no longer process them manually as of Jan. 30.