What Is Mobile Passport Control? Your Guide to Faster U.S. Customs Clearance

53

What Is Mobile Passport Control?

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a free app created by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It helps travelers save time by letting them complete some customs procedures on their phones before standing in line. Think of it as a fast pass for entering the United States.

Unlike Global Entry, which requires an application fee, background check, and in-person interview, MPC is available for anyone who qualifies, with no cost or extensive process. The app is easy to use and available for both Apple and Android devices. In 2023, about 1.8 million travelers used it to get through customs faster.

How Does Mobile Passport Control Work?

Using MPC is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Download the App:
   Download the Mobile Passport Control app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Create Your Profile:
   After installing the app, set up your profile by entering your passport details or information from your Lawful Permanent Resident card. You’ll also need to take a photo of yourself within the app.
3. Prepare for Arrival:
   When you’re on an international flight back to the U.S., select your arrival airport in the app. You’ll then answer some standard customs questions, such as whether you’re bringing in goods that need to be declared.
4. Submit Upon Landing:
   Once you land, submit your application through the app. Be sure to do this only after you’ve arrived, as submitting it too early can cause it to expire. You’ll need a Wi-Fi or cellular connection for submission.
5. Get Your QR Code:
   After submission, the app will generate a QR code. This is your electronic receipt, which you’ll show to the customs officer.
6. Head to the MPC Line:
   Look for the Mobile Passport Control signs at the customs area. These lines are usually shorter than the regular ones and can even rival the speed of Global Entry lanes.

Why Should You Use Mobile Passport Control?

MPC has several benefits, making it a great tool for many travelers. Here’s why it’s worth using:

1. Save Time

Long lines at customs can take a toll after a tiring journey. MPC often provides shorter lines and quicker processing times, which can make a big difference if you have a connecting flight or are eager to get home.

2. Free to Use

Unlike Global Entry, which costs $120 for a five-year membership, MPC is completely free. There are no hidden fees or application costs.

3. Easy for Families

Traveling with family? MPC allows you to create up to 12 profiles in the app and submit them all at once. This means families can move through customs together without filling out multiple paper forms.

4. No Pre-Approval Required

There’s no need for an interview, background check, or extensive paperwork. You can download the app, set up your profile, and start using it immediately.

5. Convenient and Stress-Free

The app simplifies the process of filling out customs forms and keeps all your information in one place. This reduces stress and makes your travel experience smoother.

Who Can Use Mobile Passport Control?

MPC is available for:

• U.S. Citizens
• Lawful Permanent Residents
• Canadian Travelers entering the U.S. with a B1 (business) or B2 (tourism) visa
• Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Travelers returning to the U.S.

If you’re eligible, you can create a profile in the app and start using MPC right away. Families traveling together can submit a single MPC transaction for all household members.

Pro Tips for Using Mobile Passport Control

To get the most out of the Mobile Passport Control app, follow these tips:

1. Submit After Landing:
   Don’t submit your application until you’ve landed in the U.S. Submitting it too early can cause it to expire.
2. Keep Your Phone Charged:
   You’ll need to show the QR code to customs officers, so make sure your phone has enough battery life.
3. Update Family Profiles:
   If you’re traveling with family, update everyone’s profiles in advance to save time during the trip.
4. Use Cellular or Wi-Fi:
   Ensure you have a reliable internet connection when submitting your application.
5. Check for Updates:
   Keep the app updated to ensure it works smoothly with the latest features and security enhancements.

Where Can You Use Mobile Passport Control?

MPC is available at 52 locations, including 34 U.S. international airports, 14 Preclearance airports, and four seaports. Here are some of the major airports where you can use MPC:

• Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

MPC is also available at preclearance locations, such as Abu Dhabi, Dublin, and several Canadian cities, allowing travelers to complete customs procedures before boarding flights to the U.S.

Mobile Passport Control vs. Global Entry

Both MPC and Global Entry help travelers clear customs quickly, but they’re designed for different needs. Let’s compare:

1. Cost

• MPC: Free to download and use.
• Global Entry: Costs $120 for a five-year membership.

2. Ease of Access

• MPC: No pre-approval or background check required.
• Global Entry: Requires an application, background check, and in-person interview.

3. Frequency of Travel

• MPC: Ideal for occasional international travelers.
• Global Entry: Best for frequent travelers who take four or more international trips per year.

4. TSA PreCheck

• MPC: Does not include TSA PreCheck.
• Global Entry: Includes TSA PreCheck, which speeds up security screening for domestic flights.

5. Processing Method

• MPC: Users show a QR code and their physical passport to a CBP officer.
• Global Entry: Members use a kiosk to scan their passport, answer customs questions, and receive a receipt to hand to a CBP officer.

Is Mobile Passport Control Legit?

Yes, MPC is completely legitimate. It’s an official program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection designed to streamline the entry process. According to CBP, MPC reduces the time spent at passport control and speeds up overall inspection times. It’s a reliable, free tool that has helped millions of travelers.

Drawbacks of Mobile Passport Control

While MPC is a fantastic option for many travelers, it does have a few limitations:

1. Not Available Everywhere:
   MPC is only available at select airports and seaports. If your arrival airport doesn’t support MPC, you won’t be able to use it.
2. Requires Manual Updates:
   You need to enter your trip details for each arrival. Unlike Global Entry, which uses kiosks, MPC doesn’t save previous trip data for future use.
3. No TSA PreCheck:
   MPC doesn’t include TSA PreCheck benefits, which can speed up security screening for domestic flights.

Should You Use Mobile Passport Control?

Mobile Passport Control is an excellent tool for travelers who want to save time and avoid the hassle of long customs lines. It’s free, easy to use, and doesn’t require extensive paperwork or pre-approval. Whether you’re a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an eligible international traveler, MPC can make your journey back to the United States much smoother.

While it’s not a complete replacement for Global Entry, it’s a fantastic alternative for occasional travelers or those who haven’t yet signed up for the trusted traveler program. If you’re planning an international trip, download the app, set up your profile, and experience a stress-free return to the U.S.