Passport app reduces airport wait times for US travellers
Passing through US immigration control will be easier for Americans flying home from Bermuda, thanks to a new mobile application installed at the airport.
US Customs and Border Protection has introduced a free mobile passport control programme that is designed to streamline the inspection process for entry into the US by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait times.
The app is available to US citizens, US lawful permanent residents and Canadian B1/B2 visitors.
Marissa Singh, a Customs and Border Protection supervisor, said the streamlining of the process will benefit both passengers and customs officers.
She said: “Our team of dedicated officers are equipped for the mobile passport control deployment, which will reduce our team's administrative load, allowing officers to focus on their interviews and law enforcement functions.
“Travellers and their family members can leverage the programme on one mobile device, and once they submit their form, can proceed to their own designated queue located in our pre-clearance area.”
Aaron Adderley, the president of Skyport, which operates LF Wade International Airport, said the latest development would reduce queue times and stress for travellers.
He said: “We are happy to have partners like US CBP who value the deployment of customised IT products for passenger processing. Skyport continues to evaluate the introduction of other programmes, technology, and biometric solutions designed to enhance the traveller experience and hopes to make additional such announcements in the future."
The app also received the backing of Karen Grissette, the US Consul General.
"Our partnership with Bermuda remains steadfast, and we are delighted to introduce this state-of-the-art technology which will streamline the inspection process through the CBP pre-clearance facility.
“Our investment in innovation exemplifies our commitment to progress, while enhancing our border security in Bermuda. We proudly acknowledge the invaluable work of our Customs and Border Protection officers for the programme's implementation and offer our thanks for the ongoing support from our partners at Skyport.”
• Eligible travellers download the CBP MPC app, from the Apple or Google app stores, and create a profile using biographic information from their passport(s) or LPR card information.
• Travellers departing through the CBP pre-clearance facility at L.F. Wade International Airport should select their method of travel as pre-clearance along with their port of entry as Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport.
• Travellers will be able to add up to 12 family members in a single household to submit in one MPC transaction.
•Travellers will then answer inspection related questions and certify the truthfulness and accuracy of their answers. Applicants can save this information before arriving at the airport.
• Upon arrival at the CBP pre-clearance Facility at L.F. Wade International Airport applicants must capture a photograph for each traveller and submit their transaction.
• Once a traveller submits their transaction through the app, the traveller will then receive an electronic receipt with an Encrypted Quick Response (QR) code. Travellers will then bring their physical passport and mobile device with their digital QR-coded receipt to a CBP officer to finalise their inspection for entry into the United States.
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