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Using the iris recognition immigration system (IRIS)

This page explains how registered passengers can use our iris recognition immigration system (IRIS) to enter the UK quickly through automated barriers at certain airports.

IRIS makes use of the fact that the pattern of the iris in each person's eye (the coloured part of the eye) is unique. This enables a person to be identified simply by looking into a special camera at the IRIS barrier located in the immigration arrival hall.

The IRIS system uses a photograph of the iris pattern, converts it into a digital code and then compares it with others stored in a secure database. If the iris pattern matches the corresponding one on the database and the registration is still valid, that person can enter the UK by passing through the IRIS barrier in the immigration arrival hall.

You can register for IRIS if you are a passport holder of the UK, another country in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. Permanent residents and certain other categories of people are also able to register.

It usually takes between 5 and 10 minutes to register for IRIS. A registered traveller entering the UK can cross an IRIS barrier in about 20 seconds.

IRIS is in operation at the following UK airports:

  • Four Heathrow terminals
  • Manchester terminals 1 and 2
  • Birmingham terminal 1
  • Gatwick North and South terminals.

To find out whether and how you can register for IRIS, see Registering for IRIS.

To find out how to use IRIS once you are registered, see How do I use IRIS to enter the UK?

To find out what to do if your circumstances change after you have registered, see What if my circumstances change?

The IRIS scheme definition document, which you can download from the right side of this page, contains a full, technical description of the scheme.

If the information in these pages does not answer your question, you can contact us about IRIS. You will need to include your full name, date of birth, nationality and (if already registered on IRIS) your registration number.

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