If you’re flying internationally through Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), you might be wondering whether you can use Mobile Passport (now often called Mobile Passport Control or MPC) to speed through U.S. Customs.
Here’s how it works specifically at Atlanta’s airport, what to expect when you land, and how to decide if it’s worth using.
Yes. Atlanta Airport does support Mobile Passport Control (MPC) for eligible international arrivals in the international terminal (Concourse F).
That means:
However:
International flights into Atlanta typically arrive at either:
Mobile Passport Control is available at the international arrivals processing area managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
You’ll see overhead signs after you get off an international flight that point toward:
Follow the Mobile Passport / MPC signs if:
If signs are confusing or you’re not sure which lane is active, ask a CBP officer or an airport agent in the arrivals hall. Staffing and lane availability can vary by time of day.
Mobile Passport Control at Atlanta is typically available to:
Each adult traveler generally needs to:
Family members from the same household can usually be submitted together in one declaration within the app, which can make it especially helpful for Atlanta families returning from international vacations or visiting relatives abroad.
Many Atlanta-based travelers compare Mobile Passport with Global Entry when deciding how to speed up re-entry into the U.S.
Here’s a simple side-by-side summary for use at ATL:
| Feature | Mobile Passport Control (MPC) at ATL | Global Entry at ATL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free app | Paid application fee |
| Enrollment appointment | None | In-person interview required |
| Where used | Selected U.S. airports, incl. ATL | Many U.S. airports + some foreign locations |
| At ATL arrivals | Use MPC lane after app submission | Use Global Entry kiosks / eGates + lanes |
| Who it’s best for | Occasional to moderate international travelers | Frequent international travelers |
| Processing speed | Often faster than regular lines, may be similar to or slower than Global Entry at busy times | Consistently very fast when lanes are fully staffed |
Both are supported at Atlanta’s international arrivals facilities. If you fly internationally a few times a year from Atlanta and don’t want to pay for Global Entry, Mobile Passport can be a solid, no-cost upgrade to the regular line.
If you live in Atlanta or fly back into ATL frequently, it helps to know the process in advance.
You can do this well before your trip so you’re ready when you land.
Shortly before landing (or after landing while taxiing, if allowed by airline policy):
You should receive a digital confirmation / receipt with a QR code or similar screen, valid for a short period of time after your arrival.
Once you exit the aircraft:
You may then be directed to baggage claim and customs exit, or to a secondary screening area if more inspection is needed (this can happen with any traveler, regardless of the program).
Mobile Passport can be especially helpful for travelers:
In lighter traffic periods, the time difference between MPC, Global Entry, and regular lines may be smaller. Lane usage can change as CBP manages crowds, so it’s good to stay flexible.
Here are a few practical tips specific to Hartsfield–Jackson:
Mobile Passport does not replace your passport.
You must still bring and present your physical passport.
Wi‑Fi and data:
ATL generally has free airport Wi‑Fi, but if the connection is slow or patchy, ensure your app and profile are set up before landing. The final submission usually requires a bit of connectivity.
Follow the latest signs and instructions:
Mobile Passport lanes can occasionally be merged or adjusted depending on passenger volume. If you don’t see a dedicated MPC lane, ask an officer where MPC users should go.
Check app availability before each trip:
CBP can update participating airports, app features, and eligibility over time. It’s smart to open the app before your flight home to confirm that Atlanta (ATL) is listed and that you’re still eligible.
If you have questions about international arrivals procedures at Atlanta, you can contact:
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport – Customer Service
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320
Main Airport Information: (800) 897-1910 (widely used public info line)
For questions about immigration, customs, or entry procedures generally, contact:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Port of Atlanta (ATL Airport)
International Terminal / Concourse F
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320
Phone numbers and office hours can change, so it’s best to verify contact details through official government directories or the airport’s information resources before calling.
In summary: Yes, Atlanta Airport does support Mobile Passport Control for eligible international arrivals, primarily in the international terminal (Concourse F). If you’re an Atlanta traveler looking for a free way to speed up U.S. customs, setting up the MPC app before your next international trip can make your return through Hartsfield–Jackson faster and less stressful.
