Britons planning to travel to Europe have been advised to avoid applying for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) visa waiver through the numerous unofficial websites currently operating online. The warnings come amid ongoing delays to the rollout of Etias, which has yet to be implemented despite initial plans for an imminent launch.
Etias, a new system requiring non-EU citizens—including UK nationals and travelers from visa-exempt countries such as the United States—to pay a €20 fee for access to the Schengen zone, was originally intended to coincide with the introduction of the EU’s entry-exit system (EES). However, issues surrounding the deployment of the EES, particularly technical problems at French border controls, have pushed back both systems’ implementation timelines. As a result, Etias remains suspended indefinitely, with no official launch date announced.
Luke Petherbridge, public affairs director at the Atra travel association, emphasized that Etias should not be activated until the EES is fully operational, noting, “Abta believes it shouldn’t be brought in until EES is fully operational and working properly.” He also underscored concerns over the proliferation of more than 150 websites purporting to offer Etias applications, when only one official platform will be available once the system goes live.
Research from the travel association Abta indicates rising public awareness about the upcoming border requirements, with recognition increasing from 41% earlier this year to 56% currently. The fee for obtaining an Etias has risen from an initially planned €7 to €20, though exemptions will apply for children under 18 and adults over 70.
The EU’s border agency Frontex has previously cautioned travelers about fraudulent websites that mimic the official Etias portal. These unauthorized sites often provide incorrect information regarding eligibility and charge inflated fees, raising risks of identity theft and financial loss. While legitimate commercial services may apply for waivers on behalf of clients, Frontex warned that individuals should remain vigilant to avoid scams.
Petherbridge said applying through unofficial sources not only results in wasted payments but also exposes personal data to potential misuse. “What I can’t stress enough is that you can’t—and shouldn’t—apply for an Etias now,” he said.
Until Etias is officially introduced, travelers are urged to use only the authorized channels and remain cautious of the numerous fraudulent websites currently exploiting the system’s delayed implementation.