Warning over travel scam catching tourists out ahead of European visa rule change

Plus, travel expert warns of scary holiday scam which could see you out of pocket and out on the street
VISA TRAP Warning over travel scam catching tourists out ahead of European visa rule change
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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 ETIAS is not yet available.
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A number of fake ETIAS websites are catching out travellers
Credit: Alamy
The scammers are creating fake websites that look like official ETIAS application portals with the aim of getting individuals' passport details, 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 security checks.
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 personal data 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' passport nears expiration.
Travellers will need to share personal details, travel history and reasons for visiting Europe.
It will allow short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across Schengen countries.
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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 EU's 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.
How to avoid scams, according to ETIAS.com
ETIAS.com warns to avoid scams, travellers should: Ignore unsolicited emails or ads promoting ETIAS.
Avoid unofficial travel websites that charge high fees or request unusual personal details.
Bookmark and use the official EU site once ETIAS becomes active.
Report suspicious activity to travel authorities or consumer protection agencies.
The website adds: "As new travel authorisation systems like the UK's ETA and the EU's upcoming ETIAS reshape border entry rules, clarity and caution are more important than ever.
"While only European visitors to the UK currently need to act, travelers to Europe should remain alert — not to red tape, but to rising scams exploiting the confusion.
"The ETIAS system won't go live until late 2026, yet fraudulent websites already prey on unaware travellers.
"As change looms, one constant remains: informed travel is safer travel. Bookmark official sources, ignore unofficial shortcuts, and keep your passport — and your data protected."
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.
One in five Brits also book holiday based on 'fake' reviews – but can you spot hidden imposter in the pictures?
Plus, travel expert warns of scary holiday scam which could see you out of pocket and out on the street.

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