Detroit Metro Airport to become latest to use Mobile Passport Control for international travelers
Sarah RahalDetroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport next week will become one of the latest airports to use a new free, secure app to help faster process international travelers coming into the United States at customs checkpoints.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced Wednesday that DTW is the latest location that will allow U.S. citizens and select non-U.S. travelers to use Mobile Passport Control. The service will go live Tuesday.
Mobile Passport Control allows international passengers to submit their travel documents, photo, and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device.
Upon arriving at participating airports, travelers can take a selfie of every member of the traveling group and submit their information to CBP through the Mobile Passport app without completing a paper form.
CBP officials at Detroit Metro Airport say they are constantly looking at ways to innovate to allow faster processing of an increasing number of travelers. Since October, customs and border patrol officials have processed nearly 1 million inbound international travelers and expects travel volumes to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year.
“Mobile Passport Control is an important step in enhancing the international travel experience and offers travelers additional options to expedite their entry into the U.S.,” said Director of Field Operations Marty Raybon. “The use of MPC streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time.”
The MPC program launched in August 2014 and is available at 51 locations, including 33 U.S. international airports. Last year, Mobile Passport Control was used by more than 1.8 million travelers.
Mobile Passport Control does not require pre-approval, like Global Entry. Travelers using Mobile Passport Control are still subject to inspection and vetting at both DTW terminals.
When it launches Tuesday, the app will not have its own separate line at the terminals but officials said that doesn't mean they won't consider adding a separate inspection line depending on its popularity. Travelers are expected to show the app QR code to officers like a boarding pass.
Mobile Passport Control is free to download from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Users have to create a profile with their passport information at any time before arriving in a CBP facility. Up to 12 profiles can be created for family members and a single household can submit in one transaction.
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