You Can Now Use Your Cellphone to Get Into the US in Chicago!

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) today announced the expansion of Mobile Passport Control (MPC) to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. MPC is the first authorized app to expedite a traveler’s arrival into the United States. Eligible travelers submit their passport information and customs declaration form to CBP via a smartphone and tablet app prior to arrival. Android and iPhone users can download the Mobile Passport app for free from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

“On behalf of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the CDA is very pleased to partner with CBP to offer this innovative technology at our global gateway, O’Hare International Airport,” said Michael Boland, Acting Commissioner, CDA. “Mobile Passport Control is the latest of many new initiatives we have implemented at Chicago O’Hare that create a faster and more efficient CBP processing experience.”

“CBP is pleased to offer Mobile Passport Control as an option to expedite travelers’ entry into the United States at four of the country’s busiest international airports,” said Assistant Commissioner for Office of Field Operations Todd C. Owen. “CBP remains committed to making the international arrivals experience as traveler-friendly as possible through innovation and collaboration with stakeholders while maintaining the highest security standards.”

MPC currently offers U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors a more secure and efficient in-person inspection between the CBP officer and the traveler upon arrival in the United States. Much like Automated Passport Control (APC), the app does not require pre-approval, is free to use and does not collect any new information from travelers.  Travelers opting to use the app will no longer have to complete a paper customs declaration form and will have access to a designated MPC lane to clear customs instead of entering the traditional CBP processing lanes. As a result, travelers will experience shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing.