Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a free U.S. Customs and Border Protection app that can speed up passport control for eligible travelers entering the United States at participating airports, seaports, and Preclearance locations. MPC does not replace your passport, and it is not the same as Global Entry.
Unlike Global Entry, Mobile Passport Control does not require an application fee, background check, interview, or pre-approval. You set up your traveler profile in the official CBP MPC app, submit your arrival information, and then use the designated MPC process if it is available when you arrive.
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What Is Mobile Passport Control?
Mobile Passport Control lets eligible travelers send their travel document information, photo, and answers to CBP inspection questions from a phone or other mobile device. CBP says using MPC can reduce passport-control inspection time and overall wait time, and travelers may be directed to a designated MPC queue.
The app is operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. If you remember the older Airside Mobile Passport app, that version is no longer the authorized app. Since 2022, travelers should use the official CBP Mobile Passport Control app.
Who Can Use the Mobile Passport Control App?
CBP currently allows the following travelers to use MPC at participating locations:
- U.S. citizens
- U.S. lawful permanent residents
- Canadian citizens traveling as B1/B2 visitors
- Returning Visa Waiver Program travelers with an approved ESTA
MPC does not replace any document you are otherwise required to carry. U.S. citizens should still have their physical passport available, and Visa Waiver Program travelers still need a valid ESTA.
How Does Mobile Passport Control Work?
- Download the official CBP MPC app and create your profile. You can enter or scan your passport information before the trip. Profile information can be saved on your device for future use.
- Prepare your arrival submission. Up to four hours before landing, or after you arrive, select the appropriate U.S. airport, seaport, or Preclearance location. Take a self-photo and answer the CBP inspection and declaration questions. An internet connection is required when you submit the information.
- Follow the MPC signs at passport control. Keep your physical passport with you and use the designated MPC line or process when available. A CBP officer still completes your inspection.
If you are traveling with family or friends, one device can include up to 12 people in a single MPC submission. That can be especially useful for families who want to stay together during inspection.
Where Can You Use Mobile Passport Control?
As of August 2026, CBP lists 53 Mobile Passport Control locations: 35 U.S. international airports, 14 Preclearance locations, and 4 seaports of entry.
Participating U.S. airports include major international gateways such as Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Newark (EWR), New York JFK, Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Orlando (MCO), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Washington Dulles (IAD).
MPC is also available at selected U.S. Preclearance airports outside the country, including Dublin, Toronto, Vancouver, Aruba, Bermuda, and Nassau, as well as the Miami, Palm Beach, Port Everglades, and San Juan seaports.
Locations can change. Before relying on MPC for a trip, check the current CBP list of Mobile Passport Control locations.
Mobile Passport Control vs. Global Entry
Mobile Passport Control and Global Entry can both make reentry into the United States easier, but they are not interchangeable.
| Feature | Mobile Passport Control | Global Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $120 application fee for a 5-year membership |
| Pre-approval | No | Yes |
| Background check and interview | No | Yes |
| TSA PreCheck benefits | No | Yes, for Global Entry members |
| Best fit | Eligible travelers who mainly want a faster return through U.S. passport control | Travelers who want a vetted, long-term program plus TSA PreCheck benefits |
Is Mobile Passport Control Enough Instead of Global Entry?
For an occasional international traveler whose main goal is to spend less time at U.S. passport control, MPC is worth trying before paying for Global Entry. It is free, there is no approval wait, and it is available at many of the airports Americans use most often.
Global Entry is usually the stronger choice for frequent international travelers who also want TSA PreCheck. It is a Trusted Traveler Program with a background check and interview, while MPC is simply a faster way for eligible travelers to submit information for a particular arrival.
If you already have Global Entry, do not try to use both programs for the same arrival. CBP says travelers should use only one automated entry program per arrival, and Trusted Traveler Program members should use their Global Entry process.
Important Mobile Passport Control Limitations
- MPC does not replace your passport. Bring the physical travel document required for your trip.
- It does not guarantee a shorter line. Wait times and designated MPC processing can vary by airport and arrival.
- It does not provide TSA PreCheck. MPC is for the U.S. entry process, not airport security before departure.
- You still go through CBP inspection. The app lets you submit information electronically; a CBP officer still makes the entry decision.
- You need connectivity to submit. You can prepare profiles offline, but Wi-Fi or cellular service is required to send the arrival information.
Mobile Passport Control FAQ
Is Mobile Passport Control free?
Yes. The official CBP Mobile Passport Control app is free and does not require a paid membership or application fee.
Does Mobile Passport Control replace a U.S. passport?
No. You still need your physical passport or other required travel document. MPC only changes how eligible travelers submit information and move through the U.S. entry process.
Can a family use Mobile Passport Control together?
Yes. CBP allows up to 12 travelers to be included in one MPC submission from a single device.
Can I use Mobile Passport Control if I have Global Entry?
CBP advises travelers to use only one automated entry program per arrival. If you are a Global Entry member, use the Global Entry process rather than trying to combine it with MPC on the same arrival.
Before Your Next International Trip
Mobile Passport Control can make the trip home easier, but it does not tell you whether your passport is valid for the destination you are visiting or whether your travel date leaves enough time to renew.
Use the free Passport Path Finder on our homepage for a recommendation based on your trip, destination, current passport, and timing.
For the official MPC app and the most current participating-location list, visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Mobile Passport Control page.
Compare Your Fast Passport Options
If routine service is too slow, you may need an agency appointment or help from a registered courier. Compare your options before you decide.
Reviewed August 20, 2026.
