Mobile Passport Control: Know How to Use This CBP App for Faster US Immigration and Customs Clearance

You have not subscribed to the Global Entry program for expedited entry formalities in the US. No worries! Mobile Passport Control App is your free guide to faster immigration clearance and customs screening for seamless re-entry to USA after an international trip. Some savvy travelers call MPC App CBP’s best kept secret, as only 8% of inbound travelers used this in 2024, though it is the best alternative to Global Entry, and that too for free.

What is Mobile Passport Control App 

Mobile Passport Control works as a digital “fast lane” through immigration and customs at US airports. A free official app from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), MPC helps streamline your arrival in the US and quicken your entry into the country. It eliminates the need to make customs declaration in paper. Rather, you can easily submit your passport information and customs declaration to the CBP through the Mobile Passport Control App on your phone. It gives you access to dedicated express lanes at more than 50 airports across the US.

Mobile Passport Control vs. Global Entry 

Both Mobile Passport Control and Global Entry are designed to expediate the US entry process, but they are poles apart in several aspects. Firstly, MPC App is absolutely free whereas Global Entry is a premium program for $120 for 5 years. Unlike the Global Entry Trusted Traveler program, Mobile Passport Control App requires no application process, no in-person interview, no fingerprinting, basically no prior approval. You can easily download the app on your phone for immediate use. While Global Entry and TSA PreCheck come together, MPC is a convenient alternative for those seeking a complimentary solution.

Where You can Use Mobile Passport Control

As of April 2025, you can use CBP’s MPC App at 53 US entry points, including 35 international airports, 14 US preclearance facilities abroad, and 4 seaports (cruise ports). Precisely, this covers almost all the major gateway airports in the United States and several international transit hubs overseas. Using MPC APP, you can breeze through US immigration and customs clearance at major airports like NYC JFK, Los Angeles LAX, San Francisco SFO, Chicago ORD, Atlanta ATL, Houston IAH, Detroit, and Miami MIA.

If you travel on Etihad flights to USA from India, you can clear US immigration and customs through MPC App at the designated preclearance facility at Abu Dhabi Airport. The US entry preclearance facilities in Canada and Ireland do also support the app for eligible international travelers.

How to use Mobile Passport Control App

CBP’s MPC App is compatible with iPhones and Android mobile devices. You can download the app before you travel back to the US. Once installed, you need to create a profile by scanning your passport or entering the passport details manually. The app stores the information securely. You can add to the profile maximum 12 people traveling with you. No background check, fingerprinting, or pre-approval is required.

The app can be used to further the process only within 4 hours before landing or immediately after landing in the US. You need to click and upload a selfie through the app for identity verification followed by a few standard customs declaration questions. Hit ‘Submit’ once you answer the questions. Your information is shared with the CBP over a secure connection, and you will receive confirmation, either as a QR code or a receipt on the screen.

As you deplane and head toward immigration, look for signs for “Mobile Passport Control” or ask an airport staff where the MPC lane is. Major US airports have clear signage directing MPC app users to designated lanes.

You’ll hand over your actual passport and show the CBP officer the confirmation QR code or receipt that you receive through the app. The officer scans your passport and/or the QR code to verify the info that you submit through MPC App. He might ask a couple of routine questions or simply verify your identity against your selfie. And that’s it! You are all set to enter the country or take a domestic flight without the paper work and probably in a fraction of the waiting time for other passengers.

Who can use Mobile Passport Control App

According to the CBP, US citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) can use Mobile Passport Control App for seamless arrival and fast entry in the United States. It is also available to Canadian citizens visiting the US on B1/B2 visa, and Visa Waiver Program travelers with pre-approved ESTA. In plain terms, nationals of the countries eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are privileged to use the app.

Can B1/B2 visa holders from India use MPC App for hassle-free arrival at US airports?    

No, B1/B2 visa holders from India are not eligible to use the Mobile Passport Control App. However, if you are an NRI holding a US Green Card (lawful permanent resident), you are eligible to use MPC for a quicker and more convenient immigration experience at supported US airports.