In the wake of the pandemic, the world has seen a significant resurgence in travel. This uptick, particularly in international travel, has presented airports and border control authorities with the challenge of efficiently managing the growing influx of passengers. As a response, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been at the forefront of adopting technological solutions to streamline the process, ensuring smoother travels for visitors entering the country. Among the innovations, the deployment of U.S. Customs tech and apps like the Mobile Passport Control app represent pivotal steps towards modernizing post-pandemic travel.
How Has Post-Pandemic Travel Changed?
Post-pandemic, the travel landscape has witnessed a dramatic transformation. The number of international travelers, especially families traveling together, has skyrocketed. Fiscal year 2023 saw CBP process over 394 million travelers, marking a staggering 24% increase from the previous year. This surge is a clear indicator of the pent-up desire for travel after months of restrictions.
Interestingly enough, this increased volume hasn’t necessarily translated into longer wait times at major airports. For instance, at JFK Airport in New York, despite a 33% rise in processed travelers, wait times decreased by an impressive 0.4 of a second on average. Such achievements are largely attributed to the smart implementation of U.S. Customs tech.
What Tech Has U.S. Customs and Border Protection Deployed?
Mobile Passport Control App
One of the gems in CBP’s technological arsenal is the Mobile Passport Control app. This app stands out as a beacon of efficiency, enabling travelers like the Belgian family mentioned earlier to breeze through passport control at Washington Dulles International Airport within minutes. The app, launched in 2021, is available not only to U.S. citizens but also to lawful permanent residents, certain Canadians, and travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries who have previously visited the U.S.
By allowing travelers to submit their photos and information through the app prior to reaching the screening area, it significantly reduces processing times. An officer simply needs to take a photo of one group member to pull up the entire group’s details. With a record 4.1 million people using the app in the last year, it’s clear that the Mobile Passport Control app is a game-changer in post-pandemic travel efficiency.
Innovations in Global Entry
Global Entry, a staple among CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs, has also seen enhancements. In response to a record 3.2 million applications last year and anticipated 4 million applications this year, CBP has made strides in streamlining the application process. Noteworthy is the initiative permitting nearly all renewing members to do so without an in-person visit, freeing up slots for new applicants.
For detailed information on applying for Global Entry and other Trusted Traveler Programs, visit the official CBP webpage.
Fee Updates
It’s important to note the upcoming adjustments to fees for Trusted Traveler Programs effective Oct. 1. The NEXUS program will see a fee increase from $50 to $120, and Global Entry fees will rise from $100 to $120. Interestingly, the SENTRI program will witness a slight decrease to $120. Notably, these fees will now include any children under 18 across all programs.
What is the Future of Airport Security and Border Control?
CBP is not resting on its laurels. Future initiatives include the introduction of E-Gates — a system enabling Global Entry users to bypass manual checks by officers and proceed through gates after a facial recognition match. This system further underscores the pivotal role of U.S. Customs tech in enhancing the airport experience.
Another promising development is “smart queuing”. This concept envisions the app directing travelers to specific lines based on entered information, including whether they have goods to declare. Such innovations illustrate CBP’s commitment to leveraging technology to refine and expedite the travel process.
How Can Travelers Prepare?
Travelers looking to capitalize on these advancements can take several steps:
1. Download and familiarize yourself with the Mobile Passport Control app before your trip.
2. Consider applying for Global Entry if you travel frequently, to benefit from quicker processing times.
3. Stay updated on fee changes and program updates by visiting the CBP website.
In conclusion, the post-pandemic travel boom has pushed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to adopt and expand cutting-edge technologies. From the Mobile Passport Control app to imminent E-Gates, these innovations promise to redefine the travel experience for millions of passengers each year. As we look towards a future where technology and travel intertwine even more seamlessly, it’s an exciting time for international travelers and the authorities working to welcome them.
This Article In A Nutshell:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection swiftly embraces tech solutions to handle the surge in post-pandemic international travel. Innovations like the Mobile Passport Control app streamline customs processes, reducing wait times at major airports. Enhancements in Global Entry and upcoming fee adjustments further enhance traveler experience. Future plans include E-Gates and smart queuing for efficient border controls.
— By VisaVerge.com
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