How to use Mobile Passport Control to enter the U.S.

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.

In this post

What is Mobile Passport Control (MPC)?
Who is eligible for Mobile Passport Control?
Where can you use the Mobile Passport App?
5 reasons why you should use Mobile Passport
FAQ

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).

A smiling young backpacking couple eagerly checks their passports while waiting in a queue.

Where can you use the Mobile Passport App?

Mobile Passport Control is currently available in 48 locations: 33 U.S. international airports, 11 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.

Expert Tip
If you know your arrival airport has Mobile Passport Control, submit your information as soon as you land, while you’re waiting to get off the plane. This speeds up the process even further.

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.

Expert Tip
I’ve personally seen the Mobile Passport Control line move faster than the Global Entry line, so there’s good reason for all eligible travelers to download the app.

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.

Expert Tip
If you’re considering Mobile Passport vs. Global Entry, you can choose both. I have Global Entry, but I also have the Mobile Passport Control app, which I use when the MPC line is the fastest option.

4. It’s free

There’s no charge to use Mobile Passport Control. By comparison, a Global Entry membership costs $100 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.

Expert Tip
Set up all profiles before you travel to streamline the process upon arrival at the airport.

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.

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

As a travel writer, I spent a lot of time at the airport. Therefore I’m always looking for ways to skip airport lines, from security to immigration. I use both Global Entry and Mobile Passport to make the immigration process as fast as possible. This guide is based on my personal experience, and uses the last official information shared by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In addition to the information found in this guide, I recommend you to check the CBP website before traveling 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 13th of November 2023. 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