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ETIAS Delayed: Scammers Target Travelers
31 Oct
Summary
- Scam websites are charging travelers high fees for the non-operational ETIAS.
- The EU's ETIAS travel authorization system is not yet active, despite fake applications.
- The EES is a separate, active program that digitally registers travelers at the border.
Travelers planning trips to Europe are being alerted to fraudulent websites capitalizing on confusion surrounding upcoming entry requirements. The European Union's European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) remains inactive with no confirmed launch date, yet numerous unofficial websites are soliciting applications and charging inflated fees.
These scam sites often mimic the legitimate ETIAS portal, requesting passport details and payments. This situation is distinct from the active Entry/Exit System (EES), which began implementing digital border registration last October. Experts caution travelers against applying for ETIAS on non-official platforms, as these can compromise personal and financial data.
The EES functions as a digital entry system at the border, involving facial and fingerprint scans to expedite checks and enhance security. In contrast, ETIAS will be a pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals, costing 20 euros and valid for three years. Travelers are advised to await official announcements from the EU regarding the ETIAS launch date and to exclusively use the official ETIAS website or mobile application for applications.
