Remove everything above the first image and replace with: After an international trip, getting home as quickly as possible is often just as important as the journey itself. Fortunately, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers two programs that can help streamline your arrival: Mobile Passport Control (MPC) and Global Entry. While both are designed to speed up the customs process, they work in different ways and offer distinct advantages. Understanding how each program works can help you choose the option that best fits your travel habits, budget, and future plans.
What is Mobile Passport Control?
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a free app from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that helps eligible travelers move through customs more efficiently when returning to the United States. Before arriving, travelers can use the app to submit their passport information, answer customs-related questions, and receive a digital receipt.
At participating airports and seaports, MPC users can access designated processing lanes, often reducing the time spent waiting to speak with a CBP officer. While wait times vary by location and travel volume, the app can make returning home from an international trip faster and more convenient
How to use Mobile Passport Control
The process is simple and fast, thanks to the MPC app, which is available for free from the Google Play store or Apple App store.
Before arrival: Start a new submission in the app, and input the requested information. This information includes the following:
- Your arrival destination
- Your personal information (such as full name, birthdate, and passport number)
- A series of declaration questions (such as if you’re bringing fruit or commercial merchandise into the US)
For families: You can include details for up to 12 people from the same household in a single MPC submission. Each person needs to have their own profile created within the app.
Before reaching customs: Up to four hours before landing or eight hours prior to your arrival at customs, take a quick snapshot of each person in your travel group, and submit your form. Once processed, you’ll receive a timed receipt that informs you which MPC line to use.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that helps pre-approved, low-risk travelers return to the United States more quickly after international travel. Membership also includes TSA PreCheck®, allowing eligible travelers to move through airport security faster on domestic flights.
At participating airports, Global Entry members use designated processing lanes and may complete their arrival using a kiosk or facial recognition technology, depending on the airport. The result is typically a faster, more streamlined customs experience.
Unlike Mobile Passport Control, Global Entry requires travelers to apply in advance, complete a background check, and attend an interview before they're approved. Once enrolled, membership is valid for five years.
How to get Global Entry
To be accepted into the program, travelers must submit an application, pay a nonrefundable application fee of $120, and schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. The process includes a background check and fingerprinting.
If approved, your Global Entry membership is valid for five years and includes TSA PreCheck benefits—such as access to dedicated security lanes and no need to remove shoes at TSA screening.
Tip: Many premium travel credit card companies offer reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee as a perk. If you travel regularly for work, your employer might also cover the cost.
Global Entry vs Mobile Passport Control: What to consider
When choosing between Mobile Passport vs Global Entry, several factors can influence your decision. Here's a breakdown of the key considerations.
Your travel companions
- Mobile Passport Control: You can include all members of your party on your submission (up to 12 people), allowing you to stay together in the MPC lane.
- Global Entry: If everyone in your group has Global Entry, you can all use the dedicated Global Entry processing lanes together. If some members don’t have Global Entry, they must use the standard customs line while Global Entry members wait until everyone has cleared customs before continuing together.
- For families traveling with children: The Global Entry application fee is waived for applicants under the age of 18 if their parent or guardian is already a member or submits their application concurrently. This can save time and energy when traveling with young kids.
Frequency of travel
- Global Entry: This is best for frequent international travelers, as the application process and fee are worthwhile given the benefits.
- Mobile Passport Control: Ideal for occasional international travelers. The app can be used immediately, with no need for an interview or background check.
Time and effort involved
- Global Entry: There are limited Global Entry interview locations, so it can take some time to schedule an interview. If you’re traveling soon, it might be too late to get approved before your trip.
- Mobile Passport: It can be used immediately, with no prior work needed. Just download the app, and fill out the form ahead of arrival.
Your arrival location
- Global Entry: It's available at most major international U.S. airports, as well as select international locations that offer U.S. Customs preclearance or Global Entry processing.
- Mobile Passport Control: It’s offered at a more limited number of participating airports, seaports, and land border points of entry. Check whether your arrival location supports MPC before traveling.
Which option should you choose?
Both Mobile Passport and Global Entry are great options for getting through customs quickly. Which one you choose ultimately depends on your travel habits and preferences.
- Global Entry: Best for frequent international travelers, travelers who also want TSA PreCheck benefits, and those who have enough time to complete the application process before an upcoming trip.
- Mobile Passport Control: Best for people going on a short-notice trip, those traveling in a large group with non-Global Entry members, and travelers who want an expedited customs option with minimal prior work needed.