New Passport Technology Speeds Up Border Control
Traveling to the United States just got easier, thanks to new technology designed to streamline the entry process for international tourists. From innovative apps to advanced border systems, these changes are reducing wait times and improving the overall experience for millions of travelers.
A Faster Process for Families and Individuals
For many international visitors, the prospect of long lines at passport control has been a significant concern. Take Piet De Staercke and his family from Belgium, for instance. On previous trips, they endured lengthy waits to enter the U.S. However, during their recent visit to Dulles Airport in Virginia, they used a new app called Mobile Passport Control, which sped up their entry process dramatically.
“It’s amazing,” De Staercke said, praising the app for its efficiency.
Developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the app was created to make the entry process smoother, particularly for families, a group that historically faced longer delays. Travelers can upload their information and photos into the app, allowing them to use a separate, faster line upon arrival.
Shifting Travel Trends and Growing Adoption
With video meetings reducing the demand for business travel, families are becoming a larger segment of international tourists. In 2023, CBP processed over 394 million travelers, a 24% increase from the previous year. Despite this surge, wait times at most airports are decreasing, thanks to technology like the Mobile Passport Control app.
Currently, the app is available to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, Canadians, and travelers from certain partner countries. CBP is collaborating with airlines to encourage passengers to download the app en route to the U.S.
Marc Calixte, the lead CBP official at Dulles Airport, emphasized the importance of even small time savings. “It adds up eventually,” he noted.
Streamlining Global Entry
For frequent travelers, the Global Entry program offers another layer of convenience. Designed for low-risk travelers, this program allows faster entry through designated kiosks. However, demand is high—3.2 million people applied for Global Entry in 2023, but the wait for interviews can take up to six months.
CBP plans to increase interview availability, with 4 million interviews expected this year. They are also holding interviews at airports and simplifying the renewal process for current Global Entry members.
However, there’s a price hike on the horizon. The fee for Global Entry will increase by $20, reflecting the growing demand for these expedited services.
Future Innovations in Border Technology
CBP is introducing even more tech-driven advancements. E-Gates are set to debut at select airports, allowing Global Entry users to bypass border agents entirely. Additionally, plans are in place to enhance the Mobile Passport Control app further. Future updates could sort travelers into faster-moving lines based on their declarations, such as those with nothing to declare.
Brendan Blackmer, a CBP program chief, said these innovations aim to make travel more seamless. “We’re committed to enhancing the experience for all travelers,” he explained.
What This Means for Travelers
Whether you’re a family visiting on vacation or a frequent flyer with Global Entry, these technological advancements are transforming the way people enter the U.S. By embracing tools like the Mobile Passport Control app and exploring options like Global Entry, travelers can look forward to quicker, more efficient border processing.
As CBP continues to innovate, the future of travel looks faster and more convenient for everyone.
