Key Takeaways
• MSP Airport launched facial recognition for U.S. citizens June 25, 2025, using the Enhanced Passenger Processing system.
• EPP system reduces customs processing time to 10 seconds, improving traveler experience and security at MSP.
• Non-citizens must use traditional customs; U.S. citizens can opt out and request manual inspection.
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) has taken a major step forward in modernizing its customs process. On June 25, 2025, MSP Airport officially launched a new facial recognition technology for U.S. citizens arriving on international flights. This move places MSP among a select group of twelve airports in the United States 🇺🇸 using the Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) system, a joint effort between the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The goal is clear: make customs faster, safer, and more convenient for travelers while keeping privacy and security at the forefront.
What Is the Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) System?
The Enhanced Passenger Processing system uses biometric facial recognition technology to speed up the customs process for U.S. citizens. When travelers arrive at MSP Airport from an international destination, they now stand in front of a tablet-sized screen. The system takes a live photo and quickly compares it to government records, such as a passport or Global Entry photo. This comparison checks the traveler’s identity, confirms their citizenship, and runs law enforcement checks—all in just a few seconds.
Key points about the EPP system at MSP Airport:
- Launch Date: June 25, 2025
- Who Can Use It: Only U.S. citizens arriving on international flights
- Who Cannot Use It: Non-citizens must use the traditional customs process
- No Pre-Registration Needed: Travelers do not need to sign up in advance
- Opt-Out Option: U.S. citizens can choose not to use facial recognition and request a manual inspection
Why Is MSP Airport Using Facial Recognition Technology?
MSP Airport’s adoption of facial recognition technology is part of a larger push across the United States 🇺🇸 to modernize airport entry processes. The main reasons for this move include:
- Faster Processing: The EPP system can reduce the time it takes to process each traveler from about 60 seconds to just 10 seconds. This means shorter lines and less waiting.
- Better Security: The system checks each traveler’s identity and citizenship status, helping to keep the border secure.
- Improved Experience: With less time spent waiting, travelers are less likely to miss connecting flights. For example, at Chicago O’Hare, the number of missed connections dropped by at least 20% after EPP was introduced.
- Handling More Passengers: MSP Airport saw a record 3.5 million international passengers in 2024, with nearly 1.8 million arriving at the airport. With more flights and more travelers, faster processing is essential.
How Does the Facial Recognition Process Work at MSP Airport?
The process is designed to be simple and quick:
- Arrival: After getting off an international flight, U.S. citizens go to the customs area.
- Facial Scan: Travelers stand in front of a screen with a camera. The camera takes a live photo.
- Comparison: The system compares the live photo to the traveler’s passport or Global Entry photo stored in government records.
- Verification: The system checks the traveler’s identity, confirms citizenship, and runs law enforcement checks.
- Completion: If there are no issues and the traveler has nothing to declare, the process is usually finished in seconds.
If a traveler does not want to use facial recognition, they can tell a CBP officer and go through the regular manual inspection instead.
Who Is Affected by the New System?
U.S. Citizens:
Only U.S. citizens arriving on international flights at MSP Airport can use the EPP system. This means they can benefit from faster processing and shorter wait times.
Non-Citizens:
Travelers who are not U.S. citizens must still use the traditional customs process. This includes showing their passport, answering questions, and possibly having their fingerprints taken.
No Pre-Registration Required:
Travelers do not need to sign up or register in advance to use the EPP system. The process is automatic for eligible U.S. citizens.
Opt-Out Rights:
If a U.S. citizen does not want to use facial recognition, they have the right to opt out. They simply need to inform a CBP officer, who will direct them to the standard inspection line.
Privacy, Policy, and Oversight
Facial recognition technology raises important questions about privacy and data protection. MSP Airport and CBP have put several safeguards in place to address these concerns:
- Opt-Out Rights: U.S. citizens can choose not to use facial recognition for non-law enforcement purposes, as stated in Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Directive 026-11.
- Data Handling: CBP says that biometric data collected during EPP processing is not kept long-term. The data is used only for the immediate customs process.
- Oversight: The DHS Privacy Office and the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties regularly review the system to make sure it follows privacy laws and does not unfairly affect any group.
- Bias Prevention: DHS tests the system to prevent bias or unfair treatment of any group. They also consult with civil society organizations to get feedback and improve the system.
Travelers can find more information about privacy and biometrics on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
What Are the Benefits for Travelers?
The new facial recognition technology at MSP Airport brings several benefits for U.S. citizens:
- Shorter Wait Times: The process is much faster than traditional customs checks, reducing lines and stress.
- Fewer Missed Connections: With quicker processing, travelers are less likely to miss connecting flights.
- No Extra Steps: There is no need to pre-register or fill out extra forms.
- Easy Opt-Out: Travelers who are uncomfortable with facial recognition can easily choose a manual inspection.
- Smooth Experience: For travelers with nothing to declare, the process is often completed in seconds.
What About Non-Citizens?
Non-citizens arriving at MSP Airport must still use the traditional customs process. This means:
- Showing their passport and visa (if required)
- Answering questions from a CBP officer
- Possibly having their fingerprints taken
While the new system does not currently include non-citizens, CBP is considering expanding biometric processing to more traveler groups in the future. Any such changes will be reviewed for privacy and fairness.
Official Statements and Stakeholder Views
Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC):
Roy Fuhrmann, Chief Operating Officer, said the partnership with CBP and investment in new technology are meant to improve screening efficiency and make the passenger experience better.
CBP:
LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations for the Chicago Field Office, explained that the EPP system helps both security and traveler experience. It allows for secure identity checks, shorter wait times, and more efficient customs processing.
CBP Public Affairs:
Steven Bansbach, a CBP spokesperson, highlighted the reduction in wait times and missed connections. He also reassured travelers about privacy protections and the ability to opt out.
Civil Liberties Groups:
Some organizations continue to watch the rollout of facial recognition closely. They stress the importance of opt-out rights, transparency, and strong oversight to prevent misuse or bias.
How Does This Fit Into the National Picture?
MSP Airport is not alone in adopting facial recognition technology. Other major airports using the EPP system include:
- Chicago O’Hare
- Los Angeles
- Orlando
- Charlotte
- Denver
- Seattle
This is part of a nationwide effort by CBP to modernize airport entry processes, improve security, and handle growing numbers of international travelers. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the trend toward biometric processing is expected to continue, with more airports and possibly more traveler groups included in the future.
Background: Why Now?
MSP Airport has seen a big increase in international travel. In 2024, the airport handled a record 3.5 million international passengers, with nearly 1.8 million arriving at MSP. The airport now offers nonstop flights to 35 international destinations in 2025, more than ever before.
With more travelers, faster and more efficient customs processing is needed. The EPP system is a key part of MSP’s efforts to keep up with demand and provide a better experience for passengers.
What Should Travelers Know Before Arriving at MSP Airport?
For U.S. Citizens:
- You do not need to sign up in advance to use the EPP system.
- If you are uncomfortable with facial recognition, you can ask for a manual inspection.
- If you have nothing to declare and no agricultural items, the process is usually finished in seconds.
For Non-Citizens:
- You must use the traditional customs process.
- Be ready to show your passport and visa (if required).
- Answer any questions from CBP officers.
General Tips:
- Have your travel documents ready when you arrive at customs.
- If you have items to declare, be honest and clear with CBP officers.
- If you have questions about the process, ask a CBP officer for help.
What About Privacy and Security?
Privacy and security are top concerns for both travelers and officials. Here’s how MSP Airport and CBP address these issues:
- Data Protection: Biometric data is not kept long-term for EPP processing. It is used only for the immediate customs check.
- Regular Reviews: The DHS Privacy Office and the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties review the system to make sure it follows privacy laws.
- Opt-Out Option: U.S. citizens can always choose not to use facial recognition.
- Bias Testing: The system is tested to make sure it does not unfairly affect any group.
If you want to learn more about how CBP uses biometrics and protects your privacy, visit the CBP Biometrics page.
What’s Next for Facial Recognition at U.S. Airports?
CBP plans to keep expanding the use of facial recognition and other biometric systems at more airports across the United States 🇺🇸. They may also include more traveler groups in the future, but any changes will go through careful review and public consultation.
DHS and CBP will continue to update privacy and civil rights protections as technology changes. They will also keep working with civil society groups to make sure the system is fair and transparent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to use facial recognition at MSP Airport if I’m a U.S. citizen?
A: No. You can opt out at any time and ask for a manual inspection.
Q: Will my biometric data be stored?
A: CBP says that biometric data collected for EPP processing is not kept long-term. It is used only for the immediate customs process.
Q: Do I need to register in advance to use the EPP system?
A: No. The system works automatically for eligible U.S. citizens.
Q: What if I have something to declare?
A: If you have items to declare, you will need to speak with a CBP officer, just as you would in the traditional process.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for details on biometric entry/exit and privacy.
Conclusion: What Does This Mean for Travelers?
The launch of facial recognition technology at MSP Airport is a big step in making international arrivals faster and more secure for U.S. citizens. The Enhanced Passenger Processing system brings shorter wait times, fewer missed connections, and a smoother experience—all while protecting privacy and giving travelers the right to opt out.
For non-citizens, the process remains the same for now, but future changes may include more traveler groups as technology and policies develop. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the move toward biometric processing is part of a larger trend in U.S. airports, aiming to keep up with rising travel demand and new security challenges.
Travelers should stay informed, know their rights, and be ready for a quicker, more modern customs experience at MSP Airport and other major airports across the United States 🇺🇸. For the latest updates and official information, check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website before your next international trip.
Learn Today
Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) → A facial recognition system speeding customs for U.S. citizens at selected airports, verifying identity and citizenship.
Biometric → Relating to technology that identifies individuals based on physical characteristics like facial features or fingerprints.
Global Entry → A U.S. Customs program allowing expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers entering the U.S.
Opt-Out → The right of travelers to refuse facial recognition and choose manual customs inspection instead.
Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) → The government body managing MSP Airport and partnering with CBP for the EPP system.
This Article in a Nutshell
MSP Airport now uses facial recognition to speed customs for U.S. citizens arriving internationally. This system enhances security, shortens wait times, and offers an opt-out option. It’s part of a nationwide trend to modernize travel, handling growing passenger numbers without sacrificing privacy or convenience.
— By VisaVerge.com
