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Streamlining U.S. Re-Entry with Mobile Passport Control

A new mobile app is making the process of returning to the United States from international travel more efficient. For travelers who dread long waits at passport control, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched Mobile Passport Control (MPC), which aims to expedite the entry process.

The MPC app allows users to fill out their passport and trip information, which can facilitate quicker processing upon arrival in the U.S. By using the app, travelers may gain access to a dedicated lane for expedited processing or even a faster experience through regular lanes. It’s essential to note that, despite its name, travelers must still carry a valid, physical passport in order to complete the entry process.

Currently, the MPC app is available at 53 U.S. airports and ports, such as Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK/EWR), and Miami (MIA). It can be downloaded for free from both Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store. Notably, the app supports groups of up to 12 passengers, making it particularly beneficial for families traveling together.

However, the effectiveness of the MPC can be inconsistent. Even at airports that promote the app, the dedicated lanes may not always be operational. Susmita Baral, a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, voiced concerns about the reliability of the app, mentioning instances where it was not accepted despite advertising.

For frequent international travelers, Global Entry may be a superior option. This program offers an expedited customs process that uses facial recognition technology, allowing qualified participants to breeze through security in mere minutes. For those traveling in mixed groups—some with Global Entry and others without—Mobile Passport Control can still provide a valuable resource to ensure that the entire party can move through customs more swiftly.

It is worth mentioning that MPV and Global Entry are distinct from TSA PreCheck, which streamlines the security process at domestic airports by allowing travelers to keep shoes and belts on during screening. Each program serves different needs, highlighting the variety of options available to travelers seeking to save time.

The most efficient scenario occurs when departing from an international airport that offers customs pre-clearance, such as Dublin Airport (DUB) or Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL). With pre-clearance, travelers undergo customs checks before boarding their flights. This can reduce potential wait times upon landing in the U.S. significantly, with Dublin Airport estimating that travelers may save up to two hours overall. As an added bonus, both of these airports also accept the Mobile Passport Control app, potentially accelerating the process even further.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com