The first Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosk will be installed aboard a ferry operating between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic to expedite the processing of travelers, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced on Monday.
U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Visa Waiver Program enrollees, and travelers with B1/B2 or D visas will be able to use the self-service APC system to submit biographical information and answer CBP questions. The kiosk will be installed on a vessel called “M/V Kydon,” which travels between San Juan and San Domingo three times per week.
“APC’s have been adopted at international airports around the Nation providing travelers shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing,” Edwin Cruz, CBP’s area port director, said. “With this APC on board the ferry, passenger clearance is facilitated in such a complex operation while sustaining our security standards.”
CBP entered into a partnership with vessel operator Ferries del Caribe to install the kiosk. Additionally, America Cruise Ferries, the parent company of Ferries del Caribe, has joined the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TAP). The program’s public-private partners work with CBP to ensure that the international supply chain has the highest level of cargo security possible.
“When an entity joins CTPAT, an agreement is made to work with CBP to protect the supply chain, identify security gaps and implement specific security measures and best practices,” CBP stated. “Applicants must address a broad range of security topics and present security profiles that list action plans to align security throughout the supply chain.”