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What is SmartGate?

SmartGate is a self-service system designed to speed up immigration checks at Australian airports. It allows travelers to pass through border control quickly using facial recognition technology instead of manual passport checks. The system is currently available at 10 airports across Australia.

Key Points:

  • Where is it used? SmartGates are available at major Australian international airports such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Avalon (departures only), Cairns, Canberra, Gold Coast, Darwin, and Perth.
  • Who can use it? Travelers with biometric ePassports from countries like Australia, New Zealand, and many others can use SmartGate for a faster and smoother immigration process.

How Does SmartGate Work?

SmartGate uses facial recognition technology to match the traveler’s face with their passport photo. It reads the ePassport’s chip, compares it with immigration records, and either clears or flags the traveler for further checks.

Steps to Use SmartGate:

    1. Scan Your ePassport:

Insert your passport into the machine, which reads the chip that contains your details.

    2. Facial Recognition:

The SmartGate takes your photo and matches it with the image stored in your passport.

    3. Clearance or Rejection:

  • If Cleared: The gates open, and you are free to continue.
  • If Rejected: You will need to go through manual immigration processing with an officer.

Why Use SmartGate?

  • Faster Processing: You don’t have to wait in long lines for manual passport checks.
  • Increased Security: Automated facial recognition reduces the risk of human error.


SmartGate Requirements for Departing Travelers

Departing Passengers:

  • Who can use it?

All travelers, regardless of age or nationality, can use SmartGates if they have an ePassport or a machine-readable passport and can run the machine themselves.

Important Note for Families:

If your children cannot follow the instructions or need help, do not use SmartGate. Families with small children will be manually processed by an Australian Border Force officer.

SmartGate Requirements for Arriving Travelers

Arriving Passengers:

  • Age Requirements:
    • Travelers must be 16 years or older to use SmartGate.
    • Australian citizens between the ages of 10-15 can use SmartGate if they are accompanied by at least two adults.
  • Eligible Passports:

You must have a biometric passport from one of these countries:

    • Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Japan, and many others.
  • Expanded Eligibility:

Starting from June 2024, the Australian Border Force is testing SmartGate for even more passports and age groups.

Exceptions to Using SmartGate

Some travelers cannot use SmartGate for various reasons.

  • Airline Crew:

Crew members can use SmartGate, but they also have the choice to use a "crew lane" for quick processing.

  • Military Personnel:

Australian and New Zealand citizens on military orders cannot use SmartGate upon arrival.

  • Australian Children:

Children aged 10-15 can use SmartGate if they are traveling with at least two adults.

How the Arrival Process Works

Using SmartGate upon arrival is a two-step process.

Step 1: Use the SmartGate Kiosk

  • Insert your passport into the reader.
  • Remove any accessories such as hats, masks, or sunglasses.
  • Answer the questions on the screen.

If successful, you will receive a ticket. If not, you will need to go through manual passport control.

Step 2: Use the SmartGate

  • Stand in front of the camera and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Make sure no one else is in the gate with you.
  • The gate will open if the facial recognition system matches your passport photo.
  • If unsuccessful, you will be directed to the SmartGate Assistance Desk for manual processing.

Eligibility for Arrivals

  • Australian Citizens:

You must have a biometric passport and be at least 10 years old and 1.1 meters tall to use SmartGate.

  • Non-Citizens:

You must have a biometric passport from an eligible country, be at least 16 years old, and 1.1 meters tall.

Special Considerations

  • Unaccompanied Children:

Children under 16 who are traveling alone cannot use SmartGate.

  • Airline Crew:

Airline crew can use SmartGates, but New Zealand crew members who want to activate their Special Category Visa must go through manual processing.

Accessibility for Travelers with Disabilities

SmartGates are designed to be fully accessible to travelers with disabilities. Wheelchair users, those with limited vision, or anyone who needs special assistance can use the Airline Assisted Manual Border Control Desk for help.

After Using SmartGate

Once you have cleared SmartGate, you can:

  1. Collect your checked baggage.
  2. Show your SmartGate ticket and Incoming Passenger Card to an Australian Border Force or Biosecurity officer at the exit.

Privacy and Data Collection

Under Australian law, SmartGate collects certain personal information, including:

  • Passport details (name, gender, date of birth, etc.)
  • Facial images
  • Travel history
  • Health information (if applicable)

The Department of Home Affairs complies with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), which protect your personal information. Data may be shared with authorized government agencies and officials in your home country.

For more details, see the full Privacy Policy on the Department of Home Affairs website.

SmartGate Process for Departures

SmartGates are also available for passengers departing Australia. The process is simple:

  1. Insert your passport into the reader and wait for it to be returned.
  2. Enter the gate and look at the camera for facial recognition.
  3. Once cleared, the gates will open, allowing you to exit with your bags.

If the system doesn't work for you, an Australian Border Force officer will assist you with manual processing.

Conclusion

SmartGate is a convenient, secure, and efficient way to clear immigration at Australian airports. Whether you are arriving or departing, this self-service system can save you time and streamline your travel experience.

Disclaimer: The information provided regarding the use of SmartGates is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the details accurate and up-to-date, procedures and requirements may change without notice. It is the traveler’s responsibility to verify all relevant regulations with official sources, such as the Australian Border Force or the Department of Home Affairs, before travel. We do not assume liability for any inconvenience or loss resulting from reliance on the provided information. For the most current and specific guidelines, please consult the official government websites or contact relevant authorities directly.



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