Frontex Warns of Dubious Websites Ahead of ETIAS Launch

The European Union’s border monitoring agency, Frontex, has issued a warning to travelers from visa-free countries to be cautious of dubious websites offering information and services related to the upcoming European Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS). In a statement on Saturday, June 22, Frontex highlighted that with less than a year until the planned ETIAS launch, over 100 websites are already offering information and services on the scheme, many of which may appear official.

"As the launch of the system is getting closer, ensuring that the public is aware of the new travel requirements and of how to apply for their ETIAS travel authorization is key," stated Frontex.

The agency emphasized that the only official website for ETIAS is europa.eu/etias. Although the website is not yet open for applications, it will be ready by the time the requirement becomes mandatory in the first half of 2025. In addition to the website, travelers will be able to download the ETIAS mobile app and apply through it. The app is not yet available, but once it is, it will be accessible on both Android and iOS platforms.

Frontex has detected over 100 unofficial websites offering ETIAS information to travelers from over 60 countries, who currently can enter the 30 Schengen Area/EU countries without a visa or additional permission. The agency noted that while some of these websites operate legitimately, many appear “shady.”

"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.

In April of last year, Frontex had similar concerns, detecting around 50 such websites. The number has since doubled in one year.

Frontex identified high fees and identity theft as the main risks posed by these websites. Travelers may end up paying fees higher than the required €7 for applying through the official website, and third parties could steal their identities.

The agency clarified that it will be legal for travelers to authorize another person or a legal commercial intermediary to apply for an ETIAS on their behalf. "While commercial intermediaries will be able to apply for the travel authorization on behalf of their clients, travellers are advised to be careful who they share their personal data with," Frontex advised.

The ETIAS is expected to start operating in the first half of 2025, likely by May. Initially, the scheme was supposed to launch in January 2021 but has been postponed several times.

By fLEXI tEAM