U.S. agency rolls out mobile app for passport info, customs form

A new mobile app may speed your way through passport control lines when you return from your next international trip. U.S. Customs and Border Protection rolled out an app Wednesday that allows travelers to file passport information and declared items with their iPhone or iPad.

Right now, Mobile Passport Control is being tested among fliers returning to the country through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the nation’s busiest airport. The new technology will be expanded to more airports later this year, an agency statement says.

Passengers now have the option of filling out paper forms or entering their information at self-service kiosks at passport control areas at selected airports, including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

The mobile app allows fliers to get a jump on the process. Here’s how it works: After you download it onto your device, you create a profile with your passport information. When you return to the U.S., fill out the “New Trip” section to file your customs declaration form.

You’ll receive a QR bar code that you then show to the customs officer. (Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the app.)

U.S. Customs points out that there’s no pre-screening required to use the app, and it doesn’t collect any new information about travelers.

The agency also says it hopes to decrease wait times at passport control lines 25% to 40% for U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors.