How Do I Apply for a PortPASS?
What is PortPASS?
PortPASS (Port Passenger Accelerated Service System) is a generic term for
programs developed to identify and intercept illegal aliens while reducing the
processing time of legal travelers. Through technology, automation, and other
means needing less personal attention by inspectors, PortPASS allows preapproved border crossers faster and easier passage, while freeing inspectors
to focus on high-risk entrants. INSPASS, SENTRI, and OARS are PortPASS
Programs.
What is INSPASS?
The PortPASS program that helps frequent travelers pass quickly at airports
is the INS Passenger Accelerated Service System (INSPASS). For more information,
click on How Do I Apply for INSPASS.
What is SENTRI?
SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) facilitates
admission at land ports of entry using automated dedicated commuter lanes. SENTRI
allows the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection to enforce the law and accelerate
the inspections of certain low risk, pre-enrolled crossers. The system identifies
travelers who pose little risk to border security, verifies their low risk status
through extensive record checks, and electronically screens participants and
their vehicles every time they enter the United States.
How Do I Enroll in SENTRI?
Participation in the SENTRI program is voluntary. To participate in the
program you must complete an application, Form I-823 (Application - Inspections Facilitation Program), and submit
it to the SENTRI Enrollment Center at the Port-of-Entry. Please see our list
of SENTRI Enrollment Centers.
You will be fingerprinted, and criminal and immigration records will be checked
to determine your eligibility. You will be notified if you clear the background
check and arrangements will be made to get an inspection of your vehicle by
a U.S. Customs inspector and an interview with an Immigration Inspector. After
successful completion of this process, you will receive a PortPASS identification
card and you will provided with a Radio Frequency (RF)
transponder for your vehicle.
What is OARS?
The Outlying Area Reporting Station (OARS) was developed as an alternative to the Canadian Border Boat Landing Program or, as it is commonly known, the I-68 program (seasonal permit). The I-68 program allows certain persons who enter the U.S. by small boat to be inspected once per year, and thereafter enter
from time to time for recreational purposes without further inspection.
OARS provides a user-friendly, automated inspection to boaters with inspection
time comparable to a land border inspection. The OARS program uses videophones,
typically located at public marinas, which boaters may use to report to BCBP.
The OARS units have been deployed to areas where the public has easy access
to them, such as public gas docks, boating marinas, and state parks. Coupled
with random compliance checks and used in appropriate low-risk locations, it
effectively aids enforcement of immigration laws while providing convenience
to the traveler.
How Do I Enroll in OARS?
United States citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States,
Canadian citizens, Landed Commonwealth Residents of Canada, and nationals of
designated Visa Waiver Pilot Program countries with a valid, stamped I-94 or
I-94W, Arrival/Departure Record are eligible to participate in this program.
For more information about participating in OARS please contact the following
Districts: Buffalo, NY, Cleveland, OH, Detroit, MI, Portland, ME, Philadelphia,
PA and St. Paul, MN. Please see our field
offices home page for more information on contacting BCBP offices.
Is There a Fee to Enroll in any PortPASS Program?
You may contact the appropriate SENTRI Enrollment Center to learn the applicable fees.
How Do I Get a PortPASS Application?
Visit or contact a PortPASS enrollment office and request Form I-823. Forms
are also available by calling 1-800-870-3676, or by submitting a request through
our forms by mail system. Complete the application according to the instructions provided. Return
to an enrollment center with the required documents to support your application.
The PortPASS card remains the property of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection and may be revoked or canceled at any time.
Can Anyone Help Me?
If advice is needed, you may contact the BCBP Field Office near your home.
Please see our field offices home page for more information on contacting BCBP offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want further information? Click on Frequently Asked Questions.
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