The UK Government has increased the number of eligible countries available to use ePassport gates upon entry.
Visitors from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the United States will be able to use ePassport gates at ports across the UK in a move designed to speed up border controls for low-risk countries.
Home Secretary Sajid Javid said: "Our new global immigration and border system will improve security and fluidity for passengers coming to visit or work in the UK.
"Expanding the use of ePassport gates is a key part of this and allows us to improve the passenger experience of those arriving in the UK while keeping our border secure."
The move is part of a new system to help to drive UK economy. The change means the Government has delivered early on the commitment made in the spring statement, where the Chancellor announced that nationals from these seven countries would be able to use ePassport gates from June.
ePassport gates have been available to British and EU nationals since 2008. EU nationals will remain eligible to use them once the UK leaves the EU.
Chief Executive of the Airport Operators Association Karen Dee said: "As airports prepare for the busy summer months, we know that no one likes to wait long in a queue for passport control. That is why airports work closely with Border Force to ensure the border is welcoming, while maintaining the UK’s security.
"Enabling more passengers to use ePassport gates is an important next step in our joint efforts to enhance the welcome at the border. It will demonstrate the UK is open for business, tourism and visiting friends and relatives. It will also free up Border Force officers for other duties, improving the experience of all passengers."
Additionally, the Government is removing the need for all non-EEA travellers to fill in landing cards upon arrival in the UK, making for a smoother entry to the country.