by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:05 AM ET, Sun October 18, 2026
Travelers planning trips to Europe are being warned not to
apply for the European Union’s delayed travel authorization system, as more
than 150 websites are already advertising services to obtain the permit.
According to The
Guardian, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
has been postponed, and officials have not announced a new launch date. Despite
this, the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is urging travelers not
to submit applications until the system officially launches.
Travelers are being warned that those who attempt to apply
through unofficial websites could face financial losses and expose sensitive
personal information.
European border agency Frontex has warned that some
third-party sites imitate official government pages, use convincing domain
names, and provide inaccurate information about entry requirements.
When ETIAS does launch, eligible travelers will need to
apply through the official European Union website. The fee has increased from
seven euros to 20 euros, while applicants younger than 18 and older than 70
will be exempt from paying.
Officials advise that travelers verify the latest
requirements through official European Union sources before paying any website
claiming to offer the authorization.
When operational, the ETIAS
system will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the
United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, to obtain electronic
authorization before visiting participating European destinations.
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