The United States is digital system It modernizes the way travelers enter the country.
The goal is clear. The goal is to reduce wait times at airports and provide a more efficient experience for both U.S. citizens and international visitors.
Unlike other programs, this is not a replacement for an in-person health exam, but Streamline identity verification and personal data registration.
According to the federal agency U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)this system is already operational at several major airports and represents a solid step towards the complete digitalization of immigration.
Official: What is CBP Mobile Passport Control and how does it apply in the US?
The procedure begins before landing. Passengers must download the app Mobile Passport Control (MPC)available for free on iOS and Android.
Once you install the app, you will complete entering your personal information, nationality, flight, and arrival customs information. Users can take a selfie and scan the main page of their passport.
When you arrive at the airport, you will only see a QR code generated by the app, which a CBP officer will scan to verify your information.
This process replaces paper forms and speeds up service at checkpoints. According to CBP, this tool No information stored in the cloud and no need to create an accountguaranteeing greater privacy for travelers.
Benefits and scope of the new system
The main advantage of this system is that it ensures mobile control. Reduce waiting time in immigration line Minimize physical contact, which is important since the pandemic. Additionally, it allows authorities Process data more efficientlyavoiding manual errors.
This application can be used by both US citizens and visitors with visa or ESTA authorization. but, This is not a replacement for an in-person interview or biometrics.
Currently, the program is Available at over 50 airports in Japanwith a gradual expansion planned to all entry points, including Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago, and New York.
Things to consider before using the app
Although use of the MPC is voluntary, CBP recommends that you check whether your destination airport participates in the program before traveling.
they also advise Update your app frequentlyas the system has built-in security improvements and compatibility with new devices.
for now No internet connection required to view QR codebecause it is generated and stored locally on the phone.
A step towards a digital future with US entry.
With this innovation, CBP We guarantee a smoother and safer travel experience.. Although the use of mobile passports is voluntary, the adoption of mobile passports represents a significant change in the way immigration is managed.
According to the article, Public Broadcasting Service (PBS)the trend is that in the coming years, Most immigration procedures are done over the phone.increasingly digitizing border control and turning it into a non-bureaucratic procedure.
In fact, mobile passport control is already part of a broader strategy to digitize immigration in the United States.
In Canada, NEXUS Pre-Approved Traveler Programmanaged by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)more than 98% of intersections were processed within 10 minutes during a given time period, meeting service standards.
In the United Kingdom, news sites reported in 2024 that a major failure of the British Border Force’s electronic gates caused automated passport scanning systems to crash at multiple airports, leaving thousands of travelers in long queues of up to two hours.
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