Do you have an upcoming trip and haven't got your Global Entry card yet? Here are a couple of options to help you speed through customs and immigration when you return.
Mobile Passport is a free app that you download to your smartphone that allows you to move through immigration lines much faster than then normal queues. It’s available at many of the major airport entry points, but not all. You should check first to see if your arriving airport is on the list.
Downloading the app and setting up your profile can be done anytime; before you leave or during your vacation. Upon your return to the US, pull up the app and answer the questions (basically the same as on the Immigration paper version). Take a selfie – directions are in the app. Submit your information after landing and you’ll receive a QR code.
Go through the separate, faster, line dedicated for Mobile Passport users and present your passport, along with your QR code and that’s it. You’re in. The actual processing isn’t any different or faster, but the lines are waaayyy shorter. And, did I mention it is free?
EZ-Carry allows you to combine the two steps of clearance (immigration and customs) into one if you don’t have checked baggage. I tried this once and it was super-fast. You have a dedicated line and once you go through immigration, there is a separate exit that allows you to skip the customs portion. Currently, this is only available at DFW.
While neither of these options will get you through security faster at the beginning of your trip (you need Global Entry or TSA PreCheck for that), they can get you through customs a little faster at the end of your trip. Have a great trip!
Ready to plan that next awes'dome vacation? I'd love to help. Call 888-429-1929 or email travel@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com