Fake ETIAS Websites: Everything Travelers Need to Know About Visa-Waiver Scam

With ETIAS now set to launch in the last quarter of 2026 - after being pushed back several times since its original launch date in 2022, travelers are being warned to stay vigilant against fake websites offering fraudulent services.

While the UK’s ETA came into force for Europeans on 2 April (January for Americans) - meaning EU passport holders must now apply for the authorization ahead of their travels to the country - ETIAS has not yet come into force. That’s why non-EU nationals are being warned about scams circulating online that ask for money and even personal details under the guise of an application form to gain entry to the European Union and Schengen area.

Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, states on their website that it has recognised over 100 unofficial websites that currently provide information on ETIAS to non-EU travellers. However, they warn that “while some of these websites are run by legitimate businesses, others may be less trustworthy.”

"We are aware of several sites that claim to already accept ETIAS applications. Travellers should be very cautious about those websites, as it is not currently possible to apply for an official ETIAS travel authorisation since the system is not operational yet,” said Francois Laruelle, Director of the ETIAS Central Unit Division at Frontex.

Scammers use legitimate-looking websites that resemble real application portals to deceive travellers into providing their personal information and paying a fee to apply for an ETIAS. Some even use domain names that look official and include copyrighted EU materials, so it may be difficult to tell whether they’re real or not. However, any websites currently offering such services are not official and should be ignored.

The official ETIAS website states that the European Union will announce the exact start date several months prior to its launch, and that right now “no action is required from travelers.”

ETIAS, short for European Travel Information and Authorisation System, works similarly to the USA’s existing ESTA and the UK’s recently introduced ETA scheme, enhancing border security and digitally screening travelers entering and exiting the EU and Schengen member countries.

Once it’s rolled out, the ETIAS application form will require personal information including the traveler’s level of education and occupation, travel document details, and any criminal convictions. It will also carry a €7 fee for all applicants aged between 18 and 70 and will be valid for up to three years - or until the passport reaches three months to expiry.