A NEW travel scam is catching tourists out ahead of the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) introduction.
Scammers are targeting travellers with fake websites mimicking official application portals and attempting to steal personal data and money, while is not yet available.
The scammers are creating fake websites that look like official ETIAS application portals with the aim of getting individuals’ personal information and even payment information.
Many of the sites charge extra fees for a service that actually doesn’t exist yet or for services that are already available on the official ETIAS platform.
Some sites guarantee instant approval – which actually is not the case with ETIAS, as applications have to go through.
They are also spreading misinformation about ETIAS, creating further confusion and causing travellers to panic and apply through different unofficial channels.
In addition, scammers can manipulate search engine rankings, which means their websites often appear higher up when travellers search, compared to official channels.
According to ETIAS.COM, ABTA warns: “People who try to apply for an ETIAS now may be at risk of fraud.
“There’s a risk of losing money and possibly too.”;
How ETIAS will work when it arrives
When ETIAS is active, it will cost about €7 (£5.89) and remain valid for up to three years – or until and individuals’ nears expiration.
Travellers will need to share personal details, travel history and reasons for visiting .
It will allow short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across
Only people aged between 18 and 70 will need to pay the fee.
Anyone younger or older must still apply, but will not be charged.
Applications MUST be done through the official website – ‘http://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en’.
However, there is no rush to apply year.
Travellers from the UK can still enter EU countries without an ETIAS.
No new paperwork is required for this summer or autumn and officials have stressed that no action is currently needed.
The official ETIAS system won’t actually be live until late 2026.
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