In 2026, immigration times at London Heathrow (LHR) vary based on your nationality and the time of day. For UK, EU, US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders who can use the e-Gates, the process is usually fast, typically taking 15 to 30 minutes. However, for those required to see a Border Force officer at a manual desk, wait times can reach 60 to 90 minutes during morning peaks when several long-haul flights arrive simultaneously. A major factor in 2026 is the full implementation of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES); while this primarily affects travel to Europe, it has caused regional processing delays that occasionally spill over into UK transit hubs. To ensure the fastest experience, ensure you have removed your passport from any cover before reaching the e-Gate and that you are not wearing a hat or sunglasses, as facial recognition technology is the primary driver of the current "fast-track" arrival system.