Saturday, May 24, 2025
As summer approaches and the United States prepares to welcome the influx of international tourists, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is enhancing its capabilities with cutting-edge technologies that simplify and accelerate travelers’ entry process. This upgrade is conducted at critical moments, with high-profile activities such as FIFA Club World Cup 2025 The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 will attract millions of visitors, which increases demand for U.S. entry.
Use technology to handle rising travel
In fiscal year 2024, CBP processed more than 420 million passengers, an increase of 6.6% over the previous year. To adapt to the expected growth in 2025 and beyond, the agency is investing in modern airport infrastructure and deploying innovative technologies to increase efficiency and improve risk management.
One of the key advances is the enhanced passenger handling (EPP) system. Before travelers arrive at CBP officials, EPP uses automatic photo capture and biometric verification to enable faster and more accurate customs assessments. By early confirmation of identity and qualifications, EPP reduces waiting time and allows officials to focus on high-risk individuals. This technology is now used at major airports in the United States, including international points such as Orlando, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Charlotte, Seattle, Seattle, Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Cross Border Xpress in Dublin and San Diego.
Trusted traveler plans and seamless border entry
CBP also offers several trusted Traveler Programs (TTPs), such as Global Entry and Nexus, which accelerate approval of pre-approved low-risk travelers. To further improve the experience, Seamless Border Entry (SBE) integrates these programs with “mobile” technology, allowing members to check with minimal officer interaction after authorization. SBE is currently available at select airports such as Los Angeles, Miami, Washington Dulles, Chicago O’Hare, Newark, Houston’s George Bush InterContinental and Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Mobile tools simplify entry
To make travel easier, CBP offers a free mobile app that helps passengers get in faster. Global Input Mobile App allows users to complete input processing on their phone before leaving the plane. The app has been launched in 78 locations nationwide and has been downloaded over 2 million times. Applicants with conditional approval can use the app and finalize their interview upon arrival in the United States, avoiding the need for prior appointment.
For travelers entering from Canada, Nexus plans to offer fast licensing on multiple land borders and Canadian airports for U.S. and Canadian citizens or permanent residents. With over 2.2 million members, Nexus significantly reduces waiting time for frequent cross-border travelers.
Travelers who are not part of the Trusted Traveler Program can use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app, which enables U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, some Canadian citizens and visa exemption program visitors to submit their passport and travel details safely in advance. The MPC is accepted in 53 U.S. ports, including several pre-sections and harbour locations.
Non-U.S. citizens who are eligible under the Visa Waiver Program can apply for their electronic system for travel authorization (ESTA) through mobile devices or online, simplifying the visa approval process and improving accessibility.
Security and compliance remain priorities
Although these technological advances are designed to promote travel, the CBP still strictly enforces immigration laws. All travelers must introduce valid documentation, conduct background checks, and follow inspection procedures upon arrival. Remind visa holders of privilege to enter the terms and conditions of law, and violations may lead to detention or evacuation.
Prepare for large international sports events
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is a new global championship held by the United States and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with significant growth in international visitors. These events are expected to put additional pressure on the U.S. entry.
In response, CBP is effectively managing the modernization of these trends through new technologies and mobile solutions to ensure national security remains uncompromising while maintaining a smooth flow of legitimate travelers.
Enhance the arrival experience of travelers
By combining biometric screening, a trusted traveler framework and an intuitive mobile platform, CBP aims to transform airport entrances into a more seamless, touch-free process. These upgrades minimize waiting time, enhance risk detection capabilities, and improve overall passenger convenience.
Travelers are encouraged to use CBP’s digital resources before arriving to facilitate faster processing and to enter the United States more happily.
