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FYI—Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) at Chicago O’Hare (and other airports)

Posted by (Chicago) on

What a nice treat to not have to wait in a long line at passport control yesterday upon return from Iceland.

I experienced the new Enhanced Passenger Processing. You can read about it here:

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/chicago-cbp-and-chicago-department-aviation-introduce-updated

No need to show passports (unless you opt to skip the EPP). A quick face scan and you are on your way. You will be given a green EPP card that you will present later when walking through customs with your luggage.

There are agents at the scanners to help. I wasn’t asked any questions, but my sister was asked if she had more than $800 in souvenirs. She must look like the big shopper that she it. :-)

It looks like this new EPP is also available or soon to be available at other airports as well.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-prepares-summer-travel-improved-time-saving-tools

There is improved signage at O’Hare too. I’ll never forget the year I ended up in the VISA line by mistake.

Posted by
1689 posts

Just through last week. We waited in a short queue. An older gentleman in the front couldn’t hear the attendant’s instructions to remove his glasses. He must have missed the written instructions on the signage, but eventually figured it out. One machine out of three operational. I waited in a longer queue for GE enhanced processing two months ago. Nothing is perfect…..

However, remembering the days of being herded into long lines for individual interviews and scrutiny, a vast improvement!

I’ve noticed improvements and refinements in ORD’s immigration control with better traffic lanes for all over the past few years. It seems each time I arrive home there has been some change. Maybe there is hope for efficiency.

Posted by
76 posts

Returned from London last week and both Heathrow and Chicago were a breeze, fastest transits we’ve ever had.

Posted by
407 posts

Returned to the US earlier this month through O'Hare (June, 2025). Husband and I have Global Entry, our son does not. We were through in 1 minute--only really had to stop walking for the camera. He went through the EPP, and we only waited 3 more minutes for him. If more airports continue to get EPP, I'm not sure we will renew our GE in 9 years... May only opt for PreCheck.

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