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Mobile Passport Control (MPC)

Reasons to use MPC

  • You want to get through Customs faster.
  • You want to keep your group of family or friends together. If you are a parent traveling with your children, this is a great option for you.
  • You don't qualify for a Trusted Traveler Program but would still like to take advantage of an expedited process.
  • You're waiting for approval for a Trusted Traveler Program.

Steps to use MPC

  1. Before your return flight

    Check to see if your U.S. return and preclearance airport offers MPC at the bottom of this page. Download the MPC app for Apple or Android and scan your passport to get started.

    • Your passport information will be saved in the app for future use.
       
  2. Up to 4 hours before landing or immediately after landing

    Take a self-photo and answer a few questions in the app about your arrival and declarations. Your submission is active for 4 hours.

    • By submitting these travel details through the app ahead of time, you are speeding up your interaction with the CBP Officer.

    If you are traveling with a group, you can add up to 12 people to a submission from one device.

    • This means you can stay together when you speak to the CBP Officer, instead of going up to the booth one at time.
       
  3. In the Customs arrival area

    Take out your passport and enter the designated MPC line (marked with signage) to finalize your inspection with a CBP officer.

    • You can expect a shorter wait because MPC allows officers to process travelers more efficiently.

Reminders for MPC users

  • Look for signage in Customs to direct you to the MPC line.
  • You must answer the Customs' Declaration questions each time you are using MPC for entry.
  • You can submit information for multiple people from one device - and talk to the officer together, as a group.
  • MPC does not replace any required travel documents, such as ESTA for Visa Waiver Program travelers. Ensure you have the necessary documents prior to travel.

Additional Details

  • MPC does not replace your passport.
  • You do not have to fill out a paper declaration form. You will answer CBP inspection questions electronically in the MPC app on your mobile device.
  • You can submit your travel details from your mode of transport or upon arrival at a port of entry (for example, on the plane or at the airport).
  • If your flight is diverted to an airport that does not utilize MPC processing, you will not be use MPC as planned.
  • Using MPC is secure. Your document information and responses to CBP inspection questions are submitted directly to CBP via secure encryption protocols.
  • MPC is different from Global Entry. Check the table below to decide which one is right for you.

 

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) Global Entry (GE)
Free $120 for 5-year membership
No enrollment application Enrollment application required
No background check Background check
No fingerprint to enroll Fingerprinting required to enroll
Must download and use the MPC app Can use GE mobile app or GE portal
Must talk to a CBP Officer in Customs Not always required to talk with a CBP Officer in Customs
Not a Trusted Traveler Program Is a Trusted Traveler Program
Passport should be available to present to a CBP Officer Passport should be available to present to a CBP Officer
Must take confirmation photo for final verification (in addition to app self-photo) Not required to take confirmation photo (only mobile app or portal self-photo)
Available to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitors and returning Visa Waiver Program travelers with approved ESTA GE eligibility requirementsEligibility also depends on applicant vetting
Last Modified: Apr 02, 2025