As part of the larger Simplified Arrival program, an enhanced international arrival recording program that is aimed toward a paperless system, CBP stopped placing ink stamps in passports to document entry into the United States. Most foreign nationals must now rely solely upon their electronic I-94 (available at http://i94.cbp.dhs.gov) to verify the authorized duration of stay along with the I-94 travel history in conjunction with their own travel records as evidence of entries to and exist from the United States.

Unfortunately, the program is still quite flawed and travelers continue to experience errors in the electronic travel history and Form I-94 records. These errors may be corrected through either, the local deferred inspection process, or the centralized Traveller Communication Center (TCC) via the “Ask a Question” web page.

Another issue of the elimination of paper Form I-94s is that some statuses do still require paper issuance, namely T and U visas. Electronic I-94s are not issued for these classes of admission due to safety and security considerations. T and U applicants should proactively request a paper Form I-94 from a supervisor.

Mobile Applications

CBP has also introduced several mobile applications to attempt to streamline various documentation and admission processes which can be downloaded directly via CBP’s Mobile Apps Directory.

CBP One is a mobile application that allows travelers to apply for and view their I-94s, and to check land border wait times and schedule appointments at the Southwest Border land ports of entry. CBP One is also used by brokers/carriers/forwarders of inspectable goods and former Title 42 applicants, CBP encourages all travelers requiring an I-94 to use this app to apply for their I-94. Note that provisionally applying for I-94 does not guarantee admission.

The app allows certain Cuban, Haitians, Nicaraguan and Venezuelan with USCIS-approved I-134s to request authorization to travel to the US by air.  The app also allows to check trusted traveler program application status.

CBP Roam (Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile) is part of a pilot program for use in certain areas that allows pleasure boaters and other eligible travelers who arrive at remote locations to report their arrival online.

CBP Border Wait Times (BWT) app gives users the estimated wait times for reaching the primary inspection booth when crossing the US/Canada and US/Mexico land borders. Each border location updates its estimated wait times hourly.

Mobile Passport Control is available to U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens coming to the United States as B1/B2 visitors, and allows users to submit their passport information and customs declaration information via the app and bypass the regular line to enter the United States.  MPC is only available at certain locations, listed here.

myCBP provides access to CBP information, such as Frontline magazine, public messages, and social media posts.

Global Entry Mobile App gives active Global Entry members the ability to report their arrival at any of the seven supported airports instead of using the stationary Global Entry kiosks: SEA, LAX, MIA, MCO, IAD, PIT, and IAH. The app does not allow registration for Global Entry.

ESTA Mobile App enables travelers to enter under the Visa Waiver Program to submit ESTA applications easily and quickly from their smartphones, mobile devices or tablets. It is available in 24 different languages and was designed to serve travelers in all 40 countries whose citizens are permitted by DHS to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.

NOTE: As with any app, before installing, you should review the privacy policies to make sure you are aware and agree to the types of information collected and how this information is used, stored and disposed of.