I know it sounds cliche, but I’m going to say it anyway: it’s a glorious time to be alive! However, this is a travel blog and I *am* a frequent flyer after all, so let’s back up a sec and put put a travel-related twist on it: It’s a glorious time to be a frequent flyer! This is especially true since there is so much great technology out there now which makes traveling through airports so much easier compared to the olden days (you know, like 10
years ago). With that being said, let’s just jump into this with a comparison of my two favorite tech-based travel tools: The CBP Mobile Passport Control App vs Global Entry. I’ll give you a rundown of what each of them
are, how they are different from one another, and then I’ll let you know which one is my favorite (and why). What is the CBP Mobile Passport Control App?Formerly known as Mobile Passport, the CBP Mobile Passport Control App is a phone-based application (available for both iOS and Android) that you use to pre-fill your arrival information before going though passport control after arriving at a US airport from abroad. It’s available for US citizens and Canadian visitors, and it’s completely free to download and use. As a CBP Mobile Passport App user, you will have access to dedicated (much shorter) lines at passport control, and the entire process is generally much faster than it would be using the normal queue like everyone else. The process of using the Mobile Passport app goes like this:
What is Global Entry?Warning: this is the part of the whole CBP Mobile Control Passport APP vs Global Entry comparison where things start getting a little muddy. Why? Well, what I’m about to write is likely going to make you even more confused about which expedited passport control option is right for you. Global Entry sounds an awful like the Mobile Passport thing IMHO – but there are key differences. Let’s start first with a brief overview, followed by a brief rundown of what the process of using Global Entry is like: Basically, Global Entry is an expedited pre-clearance program for pre-approved (low risk) travelers entering the United States from abroad. There is an application process involved, as well as a fee which covers 5 years of enrollment. Waiting for my connecting flight at YVR just moments after breezing through US Preclearance with my Global Entry credentials. I may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I think I’ve got this travel thing figured out. Sort of.How to get Global Entry:
The process of using Global Entry goes like this:
While it’s still necessary to use the kiosks upon arrival in the US, the lines are usually much shorter than the general queue (and the time savings are huge). CBP Mobile Passport App vs Global Entry: the nitty grittyDon’t worry. If you’re even more confused about the Mobile Passport App and Global Entry now (more than ever), this is the part of the comparison where it’ll start to make a little more sense. From here on out, my goal is to guide you towards picking which expedited passport control is right for you! Here are the biggest differences between the Mobile Passport Control App and Global Entry:
Why would you choose the Mobile Passport Control App over Global Entry (and vise versa)?
Mobile Passport App vs Global Entry FAQs
So…which one do I prefer?Unfortunately, I never even had the opportunity compare the Mobile Passport Control App with Global Entry before going with the latter a short while back. I went through the application process and paid my fee for GE just before Mobile Passport became a thing, and if I had to do it all over again, I’d certainly have a lot to think about. However, when it comes right down to it, Global Entry is the better option for me right now – primarily because it comes with TSA PreCheck. I travel a lot, and having the ability to bypass long security lines without having to take off my belt and shoes every time is a huge plus. Some of the other reasons for my choice:
What about using both the Mobile Passport App AND Global Entry? Is that possible?Yes, it’s perfectly okay to have and use both programs – at least I assume it is since I’ve never heard anything which suggests otherwise. You can’t use both for a single entry however, so you’re going to have to pick one or the other each time you enter the US. The best option is to wait until you reach the queue for passport control and to pick the option that will get you through the quickest (based on how long the queues are for Global Entry vs the dedicated lanes for Mobile Passport App users). Does Global Entry has an app?Users can create up to 12 additional profiles for family members so that a single household can submit one MPC transaction, including answers to CBP inspection-related questions. Android and iPhone users can download the free Mobile Passport app from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
What do you need for Global Entry app?The documents may include:. Proof of citizenship.. Passport (required for Global Entry). Proof that you are allowed to enter the United States.. Permanent Resident Card (if you are a Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States). ... . Valid driver's license.. Proof that you live at the address you provide for your current address.. What if I forgot my Global Entry card?You can request a replacement card by logging into your TTP account and selecting Manage Membership. Next select Request for Global Entry Card. A $25 fee is charged for the replacement card.
Do I need MPC app if I have Global Entry?NOTE: Travelers can only use one automated traveler entry program per arrival. This means if you are a member of Global Entry, you can only use the Global Entry kiosk or MPC, but you cannot use both.
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