If you’ve ever landed in the U.S. after a long flight, you already know the worst part isn’t the journey, it’s the long customs queues.
What most travellers don’t realise is there’s a free, official solution that can dramatically reduce your wait time: Mobile Passport Control (MPC).
Created by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, this simple app allows you to skip paperwork, join a faster queue, and move through immigration more efficiently.
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible…
What Is Mobile Passport Control (MPC)?
Mobile Passport Control is a free app that lets eligible travellers:
- Submit passport details digitally
- Complete customs declarations on their phone
- Access a shorter, dedicated queue at U.S. airports
Instead of filling out forms and waiting in long lines, you handle most of the process before you even reach the officer.
Why Use Mobile Passport Control?
Here’s why this is a game-changer:
- Shorter wait times at customs
- No paper forms required
- Free alternative to Global Entry
- Great for families/groups (up to 12 people)
- Quick setup in minutes
Many travellers report dramatically shorter lines compared to standard queues.
Step-by-Step: How to Use MPC
- Before You Travel
- Download the Mobile Passport Control app
- Scan your passport and create a profile
- Before Landing (or Right After)
- Take a selfie in the app
- Answer a few customs questions
- Submit your details (valid for 4 hours)
- At the Airport
- Follow signs for the MPC lane
- Show your passport to the officer
- Enjoy a faster entry process
Important Things to Know
- MPC does NOT replace your passport
- You still need all required travel documents (like ESTA)
- Not all airports support MPC
- You must complete the declaration each time you travel
Pro Tips (Most People Miss These)
- Create your profile and submit your passport details before you fly
- Use one phone for your whole group
- Look carefully for MPC signs at arrivals
- Have your passport handy anyway
Final Thoughts
Mobile Passport Control is one of the most underused travel hacks available today.
It’s:
- Free
- Easy
- Saves real time
If you’re travelling to the U.S. and not using it, you’re probably spending way longer in queues than you need to.
Download the app here.
