Consumer champion Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning to Britons planning European holidays this summer, urging them not to fall victim to a rising tide of online travel scams.
The Fake ETIAS Trap
In his latest Money Saving Expert (MSE) newsletter, Lewis specifically highlighted fraudulent firms offering to sell or fast-track the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa waiver. The crucial fact is that the ETIAS system is not yet operational and is not expected to launch until at least October 2026, following repeated delays from its original 2021 start date.
"Beware online shyster firms saying get a European Travel Information & Authorisation System visa waiver – you don’t need it yet," Lewis stated. He emphasised that any company currently offering the service is fake, telling readers: "Don’t be taken in!"
How the Scam Operates
The confusion surrounding the long-delayed scheme, first announced in 2018, has created a perfect opportunity for fraudsters. The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has already uncovered more than 60 bogus websites pretending to sell ETIAS approvals.
Graeme Buck, ABTA’s Director of Communications, explained the dual risk: "In short, if you try to buy one now, it’s a scam. However, once it does go live, using an unofficial site could also see you run the risk of being overcharged, not getting an ETIAS at all, or potentially mean the theft of personal information."
For all travel to EU Schengen Area countries before October 2026, there is absolutely no requirement to purchase an ETIAS. Anyone suggesting otherwise is likely attempting to deceive you.
What Travellers Need to Know About ETIAS
When it eventually launches, ETIAS will become a mandatory pre-travel authorisation for citizens of around 60 visa-exempt countries, including the UK, visiting most EU nations. Similar to the US ESTA system, it will be electronically linked to your passport.
Key facts about the upcoming ETIAS scheme:
- It will cost €20 (approximately £17) per application for adults.
- It will be free for travellers under 18 or aged 71 and over.
- Once approved, it will be valid for three years or until your passport expires.
- It allows multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- It does not guarantee entry; border guards will still check your passport on arrival.
The EU has confirmed ETIAS "will start operations in the last quarter of 2026," with a specific date to be announced months in advance. Reports also suggest a possible six-month transitional period where applications are accepted but not mandatory for travel.
The only official application website will be travel-europe.europa.eu/etias. Travellers are warned to be vigilant when searching online, as search engines may direct them to sophisticated fraudulent pages designed to look legitimate.
