Arriving in the United States has long been a daunting experience for many travelers, especially Australians. The anticipation of long queues and exhaustive customs procedures often looms large after a grueling 14-hour flight. However, a new development is promising to change this narrative. Since early 2024, Australians traveling on an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) have been able to use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app, offering a streamlined entry process at 35 US airports.
Previously, Australians had the option to apply for Global Entry, part of America’s Trusted Traveller Programs, which offers expedited entry for low-risk passengers. However, the process was cumbersome and limited. The initial phase allowed only 1,000 participants and required frequent travel to the US, at least five times in the previous year. Although a second phase is anticipated with relaxed criteria, the Global Entry application remains intricate, involving multiple forms, a fee, and an in-person interview.
The Mobile Passport Control App: A Game-Changer
The MPC app, in contrast, provides a much simpler alternative. Available to travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries, it has been a revelation for many, including Australian travel writer Rob McFarland. “I used it for the first time on a Qantas flight from Sydney to San Francisco, and it was a game-changer,” McFarland shared.
Unlike the bureaucratic processes often associated with Homeland Security, the MPC app is user-friendly. Travelers can download the app before departure, create a profile by entering passport details, and complete a submission for their arrival while on the plane. This includes answering questions about the airport of arrival, purpose of travel, and standard customs declarations.
“A game changer: the quick-moving Mobile Passport Control (MPC) lane.” – Rob McFarland
Speedy Entry and Minimal Hassle
Upon landing, travelers need to submit their form, which requires internet access, either through roaming or airport Wi-Fi. After submission, a selfie is taken, and a receipt valid for four hours is issued, directing travelers to a dedicated MPC lane. McFarland recounted his experience at San Francisco’s arrivals hall, where the MPC lane was empty, allowing him to clear customs in record time.
“In total, it took 24 minutes from stepping off the plane to being outside the terminal waiting for a cab,” he noted. This swift process stands in stark contrast to the often lengthy waits faced by travelers at US entry points.
Implications for Future Travel
The introduction of the MPC app represents a significant step forward in simplifying international travel for Australians. It aligns with broader efforts to enhance travel experiences amid increasing security measures at borders worldwide. The success of this initiative could pave the way for similar innovations in other countries, potentially transforming global travel norms.
As phase two of the Global Entry program approaches, travelers may find themselves with more options for expedited entry. However, the MPC app’s ease of use and efficiency make it an attractive choice for many. This development not only alleviates the stress of entering the US but also highlights the potential for technology to streamline processes traditionally bogged down by red tape.
For Australians planning trips to the US, the MPC app offers a promising solution to the perennial challenge of navigating customs swiftly and with minimal hassle. As more travelers take advantage of this tool, it could become a standard part of the travel experience, offering a rare instance of border procedures that travelers can genuinely look forward to.
