Finding your way around airports can be a real headache, especially when it comes to customs and immigration checks. However, thanks to the Mobile Passport Control (MPC)This process is simplified for travelers to the USA. Find out how this application works and how it can save you time the next time you pass through an American airport.
Reducing visa processing times and improving the user experience on arrival seem to be priorities for the American authorities.
What is Mobile Passport Control?
Mobile Passport Control is a free mobile application developed in partnership with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)which allows international travelers to speed up their passage through immigration services at U.S. airports.
Using this app, passengers can submit their profile, passport and travel information via their smartphone or tablet prior to arrival, avoiding manual data entry and long queues at the checkpoint.
How does it work?
Travelers must first download the MPC application on their mobile device, available on the platforms iOS And Android. Once installed, simply create a profile by entering the required information, such as name, date of birth and passport number. This step only needs to be carried out once, and the data is then stored securely on the device, making future travel much easier.
Then, when you're ready to travel to the U.S., you'll need to fill out an electronic form in the app with information about your trip, including arrival date, departure airport and flight number. You'll also need to answer a few questions about your baggage, and declare whether you're carrying any regulated or dutiable goods.
What happens once this process has been completed?
After submitting this information, the application generates a QR code for each traveler, which is used by CBP officers during screening. On arrival at the relevant US airport, simply proceed to the queue reserved for MPC users and present your smartphone or tablet to the CBP officers. They will scan the QR code and validate your information before allowing you to pass through the usual checks. In some airports, passengers can also benefit from dedicated Wi-Fi hotspots to quickly access their application without using mobile data.
At which airports is this application available?
Since its initial launch at a few selected airports in 2014, Mobile Passport Control has expanded to many major U.S. airports, including. New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX) and Miami (MIA).
The application is currently available at over 30 airports in the USA. The full list of participating airports and information on additional equipment can be found on the official MPC website.
An airport in the Emirates has also recently become eligible: Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) for people transiting to the USA.
Who can use Mobile Passport Control?
The application is open to U.S. and Canadian citizens traveling to the U.S. with a valid passport, as well as to permanent residents. and those returning to the USA with an ESTA (not the first trip with an ESTA, then). Mobile Passport Control does not replace the Global Entry program, another U.S. entry process acceleration program available to travelers from several countries.
Unlike Global EntryIn contrast to the MPC system, which requires pre-registration, a face-to-face interview and payment of a fee, the MPC system is completely free of charge and requires no additional steps. The two systems can therefore be used in parallel to speed up your passage through immigration.
Using the MPC app does not replace the ESTA application. It is a system designed to speed up the immigration process. You must therefore comply with the formalities for entering the USA and follow the ESTA application procedure if you are a visa-exempt national (Visa Waiver Program).
Fill in a file from ESTA USA
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