US Customs and Border Protection expands Mobile Passport Control

The United States is continuing to modernize its border entry process with the latest expansion of the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app. As of May 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has officially launched the service at three additional predeparture airport locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, bringing the total number of participating sites to 63.

According to an official press release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the MPC app is now available at 38 U.S. international airports, 14 Preclearance airport locations, three predeparture locations, four seaports, and four land border pedestrian crossings.

This expansion is part of a broader initiative to utilize cutting-edge technology to facilitate entry for eligible travelers while enhancing national security.

What is the US Mobile Passport Control app?

The Mobile Passport Control app is a *ree, secure mobile application that allows eligible travelers to submit their travel document information, photo, and customs declaration digitally. By using the app, travelers can skip traditional paper forms and gain access to a designated, expedited queue at supported ports of entry.

Executive Director Matthew S. Davies of the CBP Office of Field Operations stated:

"The launch of MPC at the three predeparture locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a major advancement in our efforts to modernize and secure the traveler experience."

He added that the focus remains on "ensuring a safe, seamless, and exceptional process for travelers entering the United States."

The app is particularly useful for those who do not have Global Entry but still want a faster experience at customs. Unlike the US ESTA, which is a mandatory travel authorization for certain nationalities, the MPC app is a voluntary tool designed purely to speed up the physical inspection process upon arrival.

Who can use the MPC app?

Eligibility for the MPC app is currently limited to specific groups of travelers. According to the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in the United Kingdom, the program is open to:

• U.S. Citizens
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents
• Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitors
• Returning Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers with a previously approved ESTA

For international visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program, it is important to note that the MPC app can only be used by "returning" travelers. This means travelers must have entered the U.S. at least once before on their current ESTA to be eligible for the digital submission process.

How to use the app for your next trip

Using the MPC app involves a six-step process that can be completed on a smartphone or tablet. Travelers should download the official "CBP MPC" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store before their trip.

Once the app is installed, users create a profile with their passport information. Upon arrival at a supported U.S. airport or seaport (or before departing from a Preclearance location), travelers select their entry point, take a self-photo, and answer the standard customs declaration questions. After submitting the information, the app provides a virtual receipt with an encrypted QR code, which the traveler presents to a CBP officer along with their physical passport.

While the app streamlines the process, it does not replace the requirement for a physical passport. Travelers must still meet all legal entry requirements and undergo a brief inspection by a CBP officer to finalize their entry into the country.