Passport Card for entering Baja

The importance of the Passport Card for faster border crossings is the answer. In each of the inspection lanes there are being installed card reading scanners just like in the SENTRI lanes. Those having the Passport Card can then hold the card to the scanner which is then transposed to the computer in the inspector's hut so that when reaching the hut the information is on the inspector's screen. This will speed the border crossing by 30 to 40 percent. This by itself is huge, but in addition the double stacking on inspection lanes wherein two cars can be processed at one time will also cut waiting times by around 40 to 45 percent. The combination will amount to chopping off 60 to 70 percent of wait times so that a 2 hour wait can be reduced to 48 or less crossing time.

The further beauty of this is that the Passport Card is available independent of a Passport - for those not having a Passport the cost is $45 less than 50% than the actual Passport and for those already with a Passport the cost is $20 for the card.

There are several things that need to be promoted - one is obtaining the Passport Card and the other is to be ready when reaching the inspector's hut - be ready to declare what you are bringing - EVERYTHING - the list of things that can be brought to the US should be part of handouts at stores, hotels, restaurants, medical offices and pharmacies. Many instances of delays are due to people not being ready with their declarations when the inspector asks and not understanding that it is the obligation of those entering the US to make the declaration even if not asked. Other delays are due to people taking goods that are not allowed.

This is a step in the right direction.

BY Patrick Osio
Co-founder TransBorder Communication
Dedicated to Binational Economic Development
The Baja Connection with Patrick Osio