Travelers returning to the U.S. from abroad now have a faster and easier way through passport control, without needing Global Entry membership. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has introduced a free program called Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), offering a quicker, passport-free return experience.

What Is Enhanced Passenger Processing?

Launched nine months ago at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), EPP uses facial biometric technology. Travelers simply walk up to a tablet, get their picture taken, and CBP’s system matches it to the photo on file; no passport required. The pilot showed a 25% reduction in processing times for U.S. citizens, helping them clear customs in a matter of seconds.

How It Works

1. A traveler steps up to a tablet.

2. The tablet captures their face.

3. CBP compares it with passport/visa photos already in its system.

4. In most cases, the traveler is on their way within seconds.

5. Occasionally, a CBP officer may ask a security question before granting clearance.

Where You Can Use It

EPP is now available at these major airports:

• Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)

• Orlando (MCO)

• Charlotte (CLT)

• Chicago O’Hare (ORD)

• Denver (DEN)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Los Angeles (LAX)

• Seattle–Tacoma (SEA)

• Pre-clearance at Dublin Airport, Ireland (DUB)

Why It Benefits Everyone

The introduction of EPP not only speeds up the process for U.S. citizens but also eases congestion, allowing more lanes for international passengers; especially those without U.S. citizenship.

How It Compares to Global Entry

While EPP offers significant speed and convenience, it still trails behind the efficiency of Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and allows travelers to bypass officers entirely.

Global Entry remains the gold standard—most suitable for frequent international fliers willing to pay $120 for a five-year membership.

Other Fast-Track Options to Consider

• Mobile Passport Control (MPC): A free app that lets travelers submit their passport info and customs declaration before arriving. It’s available at over 50 entry points and used by millions.

• Standard CBP Lines: Always available, though typically slower.

The Final Takeaway

CBP is now offering multiple ways to skip long return lines without costly or time-consuming enrollment; EPP, Mobile Passport, and Global Entry. For those who travel internationally only a few times a year, EPP provides a fast, free, and convenient alternative. Frequent travelers may still find Global Entry the most efficient and rewarding choice.

Bottom line: If you’re U.S.-born, returning via any of the above airports, EPP could shave minutes—or more—off your arrival routine, no membership or fees needed.