Nobody likes long lines. If you’re an American flying home from an international trip, Mobile Passport Control is a free app that can expedite your entry into the U.S. at the airport. All you have to do is download the app, fill out your information upon arrival, and use the special Mobile Passport line at the immigration checkpoint. It’s available to all U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, and there’s no need to apply for Global Entry.
What is Mobile Passport Control (MPC)?
Mobile Passport Control is a free mobile application from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Eligible travelers who upload their passport information, photo and customs declaration into the app can use the expedited Mobile Passport line at airport immigration, which is typically far shorter than the regular line.
Who is eligible for Mobile Passport Control?
All U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, as well as Canadian citizens traveling to the U.S. as B1/B2 visitors (that is, for casual business or tourism purposes), and returning Visa Waiver Program travelers with approved ESTA.
Where can you use the Mobile Passport App?
Mobile Passport Control is currently available in 53 locations: 35 U.S. international airports, 14 preclearance locations and 4 seaports. Example locations include John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Miami Seaport. CBP will continue to add Mobile Passport locations to additional sites in the future. For the most up-to-date list of locations, visit the CBP website for Mobile Passport Control.
5 reasons why you should use Mobile Passport
Discover why you should download Mobile Passport Control today.
1. You will save a lot of time
The Mobile Passport Control line at airport immigration is usually much shorter than the main line. Though you still need to see a border agent if you use MPC, it’s an expedited process. Plus, since it’s not as well known by travelers, fewer people use the line.
2. It’s easy to install and set up
All you have to do is download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store (search CBP MPC) and set up your account using your passport information and other personal details. Once you arrive at the airport, you open the app and follow the prompts (including taking a photo of yourself and answering customs declaration questions). Once complete, you receive a QR code to show to a CBP officer.
3. It’s easier to get than Global Entry
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program by the CBP that also allows expedited entry into the U.S., but it requires a months-long application process that includes a background check and the submission of biometric data. Mobile Passport Control, however, can be used instantly.
4. It’s free
There’s no charge to use Mobile Passport Control. By comparison, a Global Entry membership costs $120 for five years (though many credit cards do offer credit for the membership).
5. Your whole family can use it
An entire household can enter the U.S. with a single submission via Mobile Passport Control. You will have to set up a profile for each family member on your app, but once you do so, you can add each member to your submission.
Conclusion
Mobile Passport Control is a convenient app for American travelers returning home, allowing them to speed up the immigration process at the airport. Download the app before your next trip abroad.
Frequent questions about Mobile Passport Control
Yes, Mobile Passport is an active program by CBP. It previously allowed private companies to develop apps compatible with Mobile Passport, but now the only accepted app is the one developed by CBP itself.
Yes, the Mobile Passport app is worth it, as it can save you time when entering the U.S. at an airport. Plus, the app is free and easy to use.
Canadian citizens traveling to the U.S. under B1/B2 visas (casual business or tourism) can use Mobile Passport. No other foreign nationals can use MPC.
The foregoing article was last updated on the 18th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Source: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/visa-waiver-program
