How to Use Mobile Passport Control to Speed Through U.S. Customs: A Smart Alternative to Global Entry
Traveling internationally often involves long lines at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival, especially for those returning from a foreign trip. But what if there was a way to skip those frustrating queues without the expense or time commitment of Global Entry? Enter Mobile Passport Control (MPC), a free app that offers a faster, more efficient way to clear customs and border checks in the United States.
While many are familiar with the benefits of Global Entry, not everyone wants to go through the application process or pay the fee. Fortunately, Mobile Passport Control offers a viable alternative that’s just as effective in speeding up the entry process. Here’s how you can use the app to breeze through customs without the long wait.
What Is Mobile Passport Control?
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a free app developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to expedite the customs process for travelers entering the United States. Available for both Android and iOS, this app allows users to submit their information ahead of time, cutting down on time spent at the customs counter.
Once you download the app, you can create a profile by inputting your passport or Lawful Permanent Resident card details. During the process, you’ll answer some basic questions from CBP and snap a selfie. After completing this step, you’ll receive an electronic receipt with a unique QR code that you can use to access the Mobile Passport Control line at participating airports.
The beauty of Mobile Passport Control is that it can often provide shorter lines and faster processing times compared to the regular customs line, closely mirroring the experience of GE members.
Pro Tip
It’s important to complete your application after you land. You can prepare your profile in advance, but the final submission must be done while you’re in the U.S. to avoid any expiration. Remember, you will need a Wi-Fi or cellular connection to submit the application, but creating the profile itself can be done offline.
How Does Mobile Passport Control Work?
Once you land in the United States, follow these simple steps to expedite your customs process:
- Download the App: Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, it’s free to download and use.
- Create Your Profile: Input your personal information, including passport details, and answer CBP questions.
- Submit Your Application: After submitting the form, you’ll receive an electronic receipt with a QR code.
- Present Your QR Code at the MPC Line: Head to the Mobile Passport Control line at the airport, which is often faster than the regular queue. Show the QR code to the officer.
- Present Your Physical Passport: As part of the process, you’ll still need to present your physical passport or legal resident card for inspection.
For families traveling together, the app allows for multiple profiles to be grouped under one transaction, making it a time-saver for groups. Just ensure each family member’s details are pre-filled correctly.
Who Can Use Mobile Passport Control?
Mobile Passport Control is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, Canadian travelers entering with a B1 (business) or B2 (tourism) visa, and travelers returning under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
The app also supports family travel, letting you create up to 12 individual profiles, and submit them all under one transaction once you’ve arrived in the U.S.
Is Mobile Passport Control Safe and Legit?
Yes! Mobile Passport Control is a legitimate and trusted program backed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It’s designed to help streamline the customs process by reducing inspection times, and travelers can rest assured that their personal data is handled securely.
According to Marty C. Raybon, Director of Field Operations at CBP’s Detroit Field Office, the app is part of the effort to make re-entry into the U.S. more efficient, particularly for those traveling on a regular basis.
The app’s legitimacy and reliability have been further confirmed by travel experts, including David Yeskel, known as “The Cruise Guru,” who recommends MPC as an excellent choice for those who may not travel frequently enough to justify the investment in GE.
Where Is Mobile Passport Control Available?
Mobile Passport Control is available at over 50 locations across the United States, including major airports and seaports. Some of the busiest airports that support MPC include:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Additionally, Mobile Passport Control is available at select pre-clearance locations such as airports in Dublin, Aruba, Toronto, and Vancouver, allowing you to clear U.S. customs before boarding your flight.
For a complete list of participating locations, you can visit the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
How Much Does Mobile Passport Control Cost?
Unlike GE, which costs $120 for a five-year membership, Mobile Passport Control is entirely free. There are no background checks or interviews required, making it an accessible option for many travelers who don’t travel internationally frequently enough to justify Global Entry’s costs and time commitment.
Mobile Passport Control vs. Global Entry: Which Is Better?
While both Mobile Passport Control and GE offer expedited entry into the United States, there are key differences between the two programs.
- Global Entry: This is a trusted traveler program, requiring an application, background check, and in-person interview. It costs $120 for five years and is best suited for frequent international travelers. GE also provides TSA PreCheck benefits, which helps speed up security checks during domestic flights.
- Mobile Passport Control: MPC, on the other hand, is free and doesn’t require an interview or background check. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t fly internationally often enough to justify Global Entry’s fees and requirements.
Conclusion
Mobile Passport Control is a great alternative to GE for travelers looking for a quicker, hassle-free way to get through U.S. Customs. It’s easy to use, free to download, and significantly reduces the time spent waiting in customs lines. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or heading back from a vacation, MPC can save you valuable time and help you get home faster.
By choosing Mobile Passport Control, you can enjoy the benefits of expedited entry without the commitment or cost of GE, making it an excellent option for infrequent travelers or those who prefer a more flexible solution.
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