NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A trip through customs at Nashville International Airport will soon feel very different. U.S. citizens arriving from overseas are being ushered into a fully automated, touch-free checkpoint that photographs each individual and runs a biometric confirmation before they ever reach a human officer, according to a press release by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
How the new biometric pre-screening works
The agency calls the system Enhanced Passenger Processing, or EPP. Instead of the traditional serpentine line that feeds into inspection booths, arriving travelers step into a pre-primary queue where overhead cameras use “auto-capture” technology to snap a high-resolution image. Software immediately matches that photo to passport records, verifies travel eligibility, and screens multiple enforcement databases—all in just a few seconds. By the time the traveler walks up to the customs officer, much of the background work is already complete. The officer’s primary task becomes confirming the automated decision and resolving any red flags. If a passenger prefers not to participate, the release specifies that they may opt out and be routed to the standard entry line.
Why Nashville and why now?
Nashville International Airport has experienced a dramatic rise in international traffic since unveiling its new Grand Lobby earlier this year, and CBP sees the airport as an ideal proving ground. In fiscal year 2024 the agency processed 420 million travelers nationwide—a 6.6% jump over the previous year—and forecasts point to continued growth. EPP is one element of a broader “Airport Modernization” initiative designed to keep wait times in check while sharpening security. CBP New Orleans Director of Field Operations Steven Stavinoha, who oversees Nashville, noted in the release that the technology “is transforming inspections at airports into a seamless, touchless process, enabling faster risk identification and efficient processing of legitimate visitors.”
What travelers will notice at BNA
- No kiosks or fingerprint pads—the only requirement is to briefly face the camera.
- CBP officers stand nearby to provide instructions yet remain free to focus on higher-risk cases.
- Signs in the queue explain the opt-out procedure for those who prefer traditional processing.
- Mobile apps such as Global Entry, Mobile Passport Control, NEXUS and ESTA still function and may shorten time in line even further.
Time-saving mobile tools already in play
EPP is not CBP’s first foray into mobile convenience. The agency now offers a suite of free applications on the Apple App Store and Google Play:
- Global Entry app – Nearly 13 million members can complete inspection steps before leaving the aircraft. The app works at 78 locations and has already been downloaded more than 2 million times.
- NEXUS – Available at 12 land border crossings and 8 Canadian airports, the program counts more than 2.2 members, according to the release. It speeds re-entry for pre-vetted U.S. and Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
- Mobile Passport Control (MPC) – Open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain Canadians and Visa Waiver travelers. MPC operates at 53 ports of entry, including 14 Preclearance locations and 4 seaports.
- ESTA mobile app – Lets Visa Waiver travelers submit required information on a smartphone rather than a desktop.
Privacy, opt-outs and legal reminders
CBP emphasizes that all biometric data collected at BNA is stored and handled under federal privacy rules. The agency also reiterates that participation is voluntary for U.S. citizens; asking a nearby officer redirects a traveler to the manual line. Regardless of which lane a traveler chooses, the agency reminds visitors that entry requirements—valid documents, clean background checks and compliance with visa terms—remain non-negotiable.
Tips for travelers arriving in Nashville
- Download before you fly. If you belong to Global Entry or plan to use Mobile Passport Control, install and set up the app while you still have high-speed Wi-Fi at home.
- Keep your travel party together. Families may process as a group, but every member must face the camera individually.
- Have passports ready. Although biometrics handle most confirmation steps, an officer may still ask to see your physical document.
- Opt-out lane? Look for signage. Signage identifying the traditional line appears before you enter the biometric queue; switching later could add wait time.
- Mind connecting flights. While EPP is designed to shorten queues, holiday crowds may still create a backlog. Build at least 90 minutes between your international arrival and any domestic connection.
FAQ: Biometric pre-screening at Nashville International Airport
Is the process mandatory for foreign nationals?
Yes. Under existing regulations, all non-U.S. citizens are required to provide biometrics when entering the country. The voluntary opt-out applies only to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
Will the system slow down families with children?
Children can be photographed just like adults. Officers are on hand to help youngsters stand in the right spot or hold still for the brief moment needed.
How secure is my data?
CBP states that it adheres to strict federal privacy and cybersecurity standards. Images are encrypted and retained only as long as necessary for identity verification and enforcement purposes.
Can I use both Global Entry and the new EPP lane?
Yes. Global Entry members can finalize most of their inspection steps on the aircraft and then breeze through the touchless biometric checkpoint upon arrival.
Does the new technology replace customs declarations?
No. Travelers must still declare agricultural products, currency over the reportable threshold and other regulated items. Expect the familiar blue form or a mobile declaration option.
Looking ahead
CBP’s Airport Modernization program is rolling out in phases across the country. Nashville’s deployment acts as a beta test for gateway cities with ballooning traffic. Pending performance metrics—wait-time reductions, officer workload, and throughput—similar systems could appear at other midsize airports as early as next year. For now, Music City gains a cutting-edge entry experience that blends national security with traveler convenience, and frequent flyers have one more reason to keep Nashville on the itinerary.
