What are APC kiosks? - ESTAForm.org

What are APC kiosks?

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Automated Passport Control (APC) is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that makes the entry process for American, Canadian, and eligible Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers easier by providing an automated process through the CBP’s Primary Inspection area.
You can use the self-service APC kiosks to answer CBP inspection questions and to submit required biographical information. APC is a free service, does not require pre-registration or membership, and the system uses high levels of protection when it comes to handling personal data and information. The service is very useful and reduces waiting times, requires less queueing, and enables quicker processing.
APC kiosks can be used by:
  • U.S. citizens
  • U.S. legal permanent residents
  • Canadian citizens
  • Travellers entering with a B1/B2 or D visa
  • People travelling with ESTA authorisation under the VWP.
APC kiosk services are available in a number of languages, which include English, Spanish, French, Italian, Korean, Dutch, German, Chinese (Traditional / Simplified) and Japanese.
If you are eligible, you can proceed directly to the APC kiosks in the passport control area instead of filling out a paper Customs declaration form. Once at the kiosk, you need to scan your passport, take a photograph using the kiosk, and answer a number of CBP inspection related questions to verify biographic and flight information. Once these are complete, you will be issued with a receipt. You can then bring your passport and receipt to a CBP officer to finalise the inspection so that you can enter into the United States.
The kiosks also allow people who live at the same address to be processed together. The APC technology does not store any personal information. Your passport information and answers to the declaration questions are submitted straight to the CBP through secure encryption protocols, as would be done by a CBP officer if you used a booth.

Do I still have to fill out a Customs declaration form?

No. If you need to submit a Customs declaration form, you should do this electronically through an APC kiosk. If you have already filled out a Customs declaration form, it can be given to a CBP Officer for shredding.

Written by Abisola Fikayomi

Abisola is an accomplished writer interested in US Travel, immigration, passports and visas. She’s passionate about exploring new places and cultures and willing to share her experiences, expertize and findings with others. That is her primary drive for specialising in this industry.

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