Ferries del Caribe passengers now have an easier time passing through migration and customs with the start of the Automated Passport Control System for expedited migration and customs entry. The expedited service is offered on board the vessel M/V Kydon that navigates between the ports of San Juan, Puerto Rico and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, transporting passengers, vehicles and cargo, three times a week.
The formal announcement was made on 29 January 2018 at the Pan American Dock in San Juan, Puerto Rico with participation from the leadership of America Cruise Ferries, parent company of Ferries del Caribe, and representatives from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico’s Department of State, Department of Economic Development, Tourism Company and Port Authority.
The service means shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing, said Edwin Cruz, area port director. “With this APC on board the ferry, passenger clearance is facilitated in such a complex operation while sustaining our security standards,” he said.
The APC is a program that expedites the entry process for US citizens, US legal permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Visa Waiver Program eligible international travelers, and travelers entering with a B1/B2 or D visa, by providing an automated process through CBP’s Primary Inspection area.
Travelers use self-service kiosks to respond to CBP inspection related questions and submit biographic information. APC is a free service, does not require pre-registration or membership, and maintains the highest levels of protection when it comes to the handling of personal data or information.
6 February 2018
