Entering the USA is about to get easier and faster for many Aussies
Getting off a plane after a long flight and standing in a line to get through immigration is all part of a holiday to America for Aussies.
And while most travellers from Australia qualify for a visa waiver, an ESTA, it still comes with rules.
However, there is now a new, easier way to save time, which many Aussie fliers will qualify for.
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Getting off a plane after a long flight and standing in a line to get through immigration is all part of a holiday to America for Aussies. Getty
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Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is an app which says it allows eligible travellers arriving in the US through airports and cruise ports to submit passport and customs declaration information electronically before arrival.
The official US Customs and Border Protection system then qualifies arrivees for an express lane.
However, only Aussies with an ESTA they have used before can take advantage.
"A person traveling on an ESTA the first time would not be eligible, but a VWP traveller with an approved ESTA would be eligible for subsequent trips," the explanation reads.
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Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is an app which says it allows eligible travellers returning to the US through participating airports and cruise ports to submit passport and customs declaration information electronically before arrival. Supplied
Hoe does MPC work?
All airports used by flights from Australia are using the system according to Brand USA.
Detailed information explains how to apply, which is done on the MPC app.
It advises passengers to download the app and set up profiles before departure, but says you can't complete and submit the form until landing.
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Arriving in LA often comes with long queues. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"Create and save your profile: enter your passport details and take a selfie," the instructions say.
"Input trip-specific details: select your mode of travel and port of entry, and complete the required CBP declaration questions.
"Submit upon arrival: tap Yes, Submit Now, take a final selfie, and receive a QR-code receipt on your device."
After that passengers can use the express lane and go through the normal arrivals process.
Up to 12 travellers per family group can apply on one device.
Detailed information explains how to apply, on the MPC app via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Supplied
It comes after the news that the annoying security rule of taking off your shoes is ending in America.
A month ago it was revealed travellers racing to catch a flight at US airports no longer are required to remove their shoes during security screenings, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said.
Shoes can stay on, as long as the passenger has what in the US is known as a REAL ID.
This is a federally accepted form of identification, like a US state-issued driver's licence or ID card, or a passport.
Noem said a pilot program showed the Transportation Security Administration had the equipment needed to keep airports and aircraft safe while allowing people to keep their shoes on.
