Dealing with long airport immigration lines can be a major hassle upon arrival at more than 50 US ports of entry, especially when you’re traveling with pets or need to quickly catch your connecting flight. Luckily, there’s a solution that can significantly reduce the stress and time spent in these lines: the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app.
What is the MPC Mobile App and Why Use It?
The MPC Mobile App is a free mobile application created by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows eligible travelers to submit their passport information and customs declaration form via their mobile device. This app offers users benefits such as:
- Access to a less crowded and dedicated MPC line
- Quicker entry to the US or Preclearance terminal
While programs like NEXUS and Global Entry offer expedited travel benefits for Trusted Travelers for a fee, MPC serves as a fantastic and affordable alternative, especially for those who are not eligible for a TTP membership or are semi-frequent travelers.
Why I Use MPC
As a NEXUS member, I do not use MPC when arriving at a U.S. port of entry while traveling alone with my dogs. However, I do use the MPC Mobile App when traveling to the US with others who do not have NEXUS, Global Entry or SENTRI memberships. Submitting our travel documents and customs declarations in one submission through the MPC Mobile App allows us to keep our travel party together while also streamlining the entire experience.
In my experiences, I have found that using the MPC at the YVR Preclearance port of entry typically saves us about 20 minutes. With the time saved, we are able to arrive at the airport later or to have enough time to relax and grab a bite to eat before boarding a US-bound flight!
Do I Recommend Using MPC?
Absolutely! That’s why during pre-departure calls or pre-recorded videos for my pet travel and relocation clients, I guide them through how to use the MPC if they are not current members of a Trusted Traveler Program. My goal is for my clients to feel prepared *prior* to their departure so they can confidently use the MPC on their day of travel with their pets.
For personalized assistance with your pet travel preparations and to learn how to leverage apps like MPC to streamline your specific travels or relocations with your pets, do not hesitate to submit a service inquiry with Bodzin Pet Travel Solutions here! I am here to help make your travels as smooth and stress-free as possible.
