The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced the first authorized app to expedite a traveler’s entry process into the United States.

Mobile Passport Control will allow eligible travelers to submit their passport information and customs declaration form via a smartphone or tablet prior to CBP inspection. The app was developed in partnership with CBP as part of a pilot program at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. IPhone and iPad users can download the app for free from Apple’s App Store.

In a statement, Deputy Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said that CBP is looking to facilitate inbound tourism while maintaining security. “Mobile Passport Control is an important step," he said, "and one that we think the traveling public will embrace.” CBP Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske, meanwhile, said that the authority was hoping to take a cue from the existing Automated Passport Control, "which has resulted in decreases in wait times as much as 25-40 percent, even with continued growth in international arrivals.”

Eligible travelers arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will be able to use the app beginning August 13. MPC is expected to expand to more airports later this year and to Android smartphone users in the future.

MPC currently offers U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors a more efficient and secure in-person inspection between the CBP officer and the traveler upon arrival in the United States. Much like Automated Passport Control, the app does not require pre-approval, is free-to-use and does not collect any new information on travelers.  As a result, travelers are likely experience shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing.

 Read more: http://www.internationalmeetingsreview.com/united-states/new-app-aims-speed-entry-process-through-us-customs-99648