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Skip the Customs Line: Introducing Mobile Passport Control for Stress-Free Family Travel

  • Writer: Nicole Lawrence
    Nicole Lawrence
  • Jul 5, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 15


A traveler using a smartphone to access the MPC app at an airport

Traveling can be stressful, especially when dealing with long customs lines. But what if there was a way to make your entry into the U.S. smoother and faster? Introducing Mobile Passport Control (MPC), a free app that allows you to submit your travel document, photo, and customs declaration via your smartphone.


What is Mobile Passport Control (MPC)?


Mobile Passport Control is a free app approved by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It allows eligible travelers to streamline their entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time. MPC eliminates the need for paper forms and provides a designated user queue, resulting in shorter wait times and less congestion.


Benefits of Mobile Passport Control


Customs sign at the airport indicating customs lanes

  • Faster Processing: Skip lengthy customs forms and long lines. MPC expedites the process, getting you through customs more quickly.

  • Group Submissions: Submit information for your entire family (up to 12 people) through one app, making the process more efficient.

  • User-Friendly: The app is easy to use. Simply download, create a profile, and you’re ready to go.

  • Free and Secure: MPC is completely free and adheres to strict privacy guidelines. Your information is securely transmitted directly to CBP.


How to Use Mobile Passport Control


  1. Download the app: It is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

  2. Create Your Profile: Enter your passport information and take a selfie.

  3. Submit When You Land: Complete your customs declaration in the app upon arrival in the U.S. and get your electronic receipt.


You can complete your customs declaration during your flight or after you land, as long as it’s within four hours of your arrival in the U.S. Once submitted, you’ll receive a digital receipt with a QR code that’s valid for four hours.


When you arrive at passport control, follow the signs for “Mobile Passport Control” or ask an airport employee for directions. You’ll still speak with a CBP officer and show your passport and QR code, but the line is often much shorter and the process is faster than the standard customs line.


Additional Tips


A traveler taking a selfie while waiting at the airport, representing the use of MPC

  • Profile Photo: Ensure your profile photo is updated periodically for smooth processing.

  • Connectivity: Cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity is required to submit information, but profiles can be created offline.


Where Can You Use Mobile Passport Control?


Close-up of a map with a red push pin marking Raleigh, indicating MPC locations

Available at over 50 U.S. airports, cruise ports, and preclearance locations abroad, Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is supported at major international gateways like Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), New York-JFK, and Atlanta (ATL). If you are flying home from Mexico or any other international destination and landing at a participating airport, you can use the MPC app to streamline your reentry process.


Benefits of Using Mobile Passport Control


Elimination of Paper Forms


U.S. Customs and Border Protection customs declaration form

One of the standout features of Mobile Passport Control is that travelers no longer need to fill out a paper customs declaration form. Instead, you can answer CBP inspection-related questions electronically via your smartphone or tablet. This reduces paper waste and simplifies the entry process.


Mobile Passport Control is a game-changer for family travel. By reducing wait times and streamlining the customs process, MPC ensures your travel experiences are as stress-free as possible.


Bonus Tip for Families and Frequent Travelers


If you’ve considered Global Entry, it helps to know how it compares to Mobile Passport Control. Global Entry offers the fastest reentry experience and includes TSA PreCheck, but it requires a paid application, background check, and in-person interview.


MPC is free to use, doesn’t require pre-approval, and lets you include up to 12 family members on one submission.


For families or travelers who don’t fly internationally often, MPC is a convenient, no-cost alternative that can still save you time and reduce stress.


Ready to make your travel experiences smoother? Download the Mobile Passport Control app today and breeze through customs on your next trip!


If you have questions or want to start planning, schedule a complimentary consultation here.

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