Travellers to the UK from other European countries will need a £10 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from next month.
The government confirmed that applications have opened ahead of the requirement to hold an ETA from April 2.
The last major step in the introduction of the digital permission to travel for millions of visitors who pass through the UK border every year follows ETAs being needed by all eligible non-European nationals last year.
This included visitors from the US, Canada and Australia.
Almost 1.1 million travellers have been issued with ETAs which screen people before arrival in the UK.
Applicants provide their biographic and biometric details and answer questions on suitability and criminality. Applicants who successfully apply have their ETA digitally linked to their passport.
“While most applications are approved quickly, it is still recommended to allow up to three working days to account for the small number of cases that require additional review,” the Home Office said.
“The UK government continues to work closely with the travel industry, including major airline, maritime and rail carriers, to ensure the smooth implementation of our new digital requirements.”
An ETA allows multiple visits to the UK of up to six months over a two-year period, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
Migration and citizenship minister Seema Malhotra said: “Securing our borders is a foundation of the UK government’s Plan for Change and by digitising the immigration system we are paving the way for a contactless UK border, ensuring visitors enjoy a seamless travel experience in the future.
“Expanding ETA worldwide cements our commitment to enhance security through technology and innovation.”