Globetrotter guide: No Global Entry? No problem!
Mobile Passport Control (MPC): A Faster Way Through U.S. Customs—Without the Hassle
If you’re returning to the U.S. from an international trip and want to get through Customs faster—without interviews, fees, or fingerprints—Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a tool you should know about.
Mobile Passport Control is a free, secure app from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows eligible travelers to submit passport and customs declaration information electronically. By replacing paper forms with a digital submission, MPC often results in shorter wait times at Customs.
I personally recommend Global Entry / Trusted Traveler Programs for anyone who travels internationally more than once a year. That said, MPC is an amazing option if you don’t have Global Entry yet—and yes, I sometimes use MPC even though I have Global Entry, depending on the airport and line situation.
Reasons to Use Mobile Passport Control
You want to get through Customs faster
You want to keep your family or group together
You don’t qualify for a Trusted Traveler Program
You’re waiting for approval for Global Entry
You want a free, low-effort option
Key Benefits
No enrollment application necessary
No background check required
Free to use
No fingerprint required
Shorter wait times in Customs
Free, easy-to-use mobile app
Ability to declare items directly in the app
Groups of up to 12 travelers can be processed together
Available at most major U.S. airports
This makes MPC especially appealing for families and groups who want to stay together during inspection.
What MPC Is (and What It Isn’t)
MPC is:
A free CBP mobile app (Apple and Android)
A way to digitally submit passport and customs information
An expedited Customs process using standard CBP inspection
Available at many U.S. airports and preclearance locations
MPC is not:
A replacement for your passport
A Trusted Traveler Program
A substitute for required travel documents (such as ESTA)
Guaranteed at every airport or port of entry
MPC vs. Global Entry: What’s the Difference?
Global Entry requires an application fee, background check, interview, and fingerprints. In return, it provides dedicated kiosks, consistently expedited entry, and TSA PreCheck benefits.
MPC, by comparison, requires no pre-approval, is completely free, and still allows for faster Customs processing—though travelers are inspected by a CBP officer.
My recommendation:
Travel internationally more than once per year → Global Entry
Travel occasionally or are waiting for approval → MPC
Don’t qualify for a Trusted Traveler Program → MPC
How to Use Mobile Passport Control
Before your return flight:
Confirm your U.S. arrival or preclearance airport supports MPC. Download the MPC app and scan your passport—your information will be saved for future use.
Up to four hours before landing or immediately after arrival:
Take a selfie and answer Customs and declaration questions in the app. Your submission remains active for four hours. You can submit information for up to 12 travelers from one device.
At Customs:
Bring your passport and follow signage for the MPC line. You will finalize your inspection with a CBP officer, often with a shorter wait time.
Important Reminders for MPC Users
Look for MPC signage in the Customs area
Customs declaration questions must be answered each trip
One device can be used for multiple travelers
MPC does not replace required travel documents
If your flight diverts to a non-MPC airport, the app cannot be used
All data is transmitted securely using CBP encryption protocols
Final Takeaway
Mobile Passport Control is one of the easiest ways to speed up your return to the U.S. It’s free, simple, and incredibly useful—especially if you don’t yet have Global Entry or are waiting for approval.
Even frequent travelers may find MPC helpful in certain situations. If you want a smoother Customs experience without the commitment, MPC is absolutely worth using.
Editorial Note: Program details and usage guidelines referenced in this article are derived from official publications by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.