Europe has long been one of the most popular destinations for travellers from around the world. From Paris to Prague, millions of people visit the continent each year to explore its culture, history, and beauty. However, as the European Union (EU) updates its border management systems, many travellers — particularly from non-EU countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and the US — are becoming increasingly confused about the new travel requirements.
The latest developments around the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) have also given rise to online scams targeting unsuspecting tourists. This article explains everything you need to know about these changes, how to stay safe from ETIAS scams, and what the new rules really mean for your next trip to Europe.
Understanding the EU’s New Travel Systems
Before diving into the scams, it’s important to understand the two key systems the EU is rolling out: the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is an advanced digital border management system set to launch on October 12, 2025, with a six-month rollout period. It’s designed to replace the traditional manual passport stamping process with an automated one, making border control faster, more secure, and efficient.
Under this new system, when travellers from non-EU countries arrive at an external Schengen border (for example, when landing in Paris, Rome, or Berlin), they’ll be required to:
- Scan their passport or travel document at a self-service kiosk.
- Provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial recognition.
- Have their entry and exit recorded digitally to ensure compliance with the 90-day visa-free rule (90 days in any 180-day period).
This change mainly affects short-stay travellers who are currently allowed visa-free access to the Schengen Zone.
What is ETIAS and When Will It Launch?
While the EES focuses on recording movements at the border, the ETIAS is an upcoming electronic travel authorisation system, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA.
However, ETIAS is NOT yet active. The system is expected to officially launch in late 2026, followed by a transitional grace period, meaning it won’t become mandatory until 2027.
Once introduced, ETIAS will apply to travellers from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including:
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand and others
These travellers will need to obtain online authorisation before visiting any of the 30 participating European countries — all EU member states except Ireland, plus Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
How Will ETIAS Work?
Once launched, applying for an ETIAS travel authorisation will be a simple online process. Here’s what travellers will need to do:
- Fill out an online application form on the official ETIAS website.
- Provide personal and passport details, along with travel history and basic security information.
- Answer security and health-related questions (similar to ESTA or eTA forms).
- Pay a €20 fee via debit or credit card.
The authorisation will be electronically linked to the traveller’s passport and remain valid for three years, or until the passport expires — whichever comes first.
Fee Exemptions
Children under 18 years and adults over 70 years will not have to pay the €20 fee, but they must still apply for authorisation.
Why Are ETIAS Scams Increasing Right Now?
Because the EES is launching in October 2025 and ETIAS is still months away, many travellers are mixing up the two systems. This confusion has created the perfect opportunity for scammers to take advantage of people who think they need an ETIAS right now.
According to ABTA (the Association of British Travel Agents) and the European Union, there are more than 60 fake websites already claiming to offer ETIAS registration or visa waivers. These fraudulent websites often look professional and use official-looking EU logos to trick people into entering personal details and making payments.
However, the ETIAS system is not yet live, and there is currently no need to apply or pay any fees for travel authorisation.
How ETIAS Scams Work
Scammers are targeting travellers through multiple online channels. Here’s how these fake operations typically function:
- Fake Websites: Fraudulent sites mimic the look and design of official EU pages, offering to “process” ETIAS applications for a fee.
- Social Media Ads: Some scammers use Facebook or Instagram ads promising early ETIAS registration or “express approval.”
- Email Phishing: Travellers may receive fake emails or texts pretending to be from EU border authorities or airlines.
- Data Theft: Beyond stealing money, scammers may also collect sensitive information like passport numbers, addresses, and payment details for identity theft.
Official Warnings from ABTA and the EU
Travel industry leaders have sounded the alarm about this growing issue.
ABTA has warned:
“People who try to apply for an ETIAS now may be at risk of fraud, losing money and possibly personal data too.”
Luke Petherbridge, ABTA’s Director of Public Affairs, emphasized during a recent travel conference that:
“The European Union is very keen to stress the fact that there is only one official site for purchasing an ETIAS visa-waiver, and people should not use other channels.”
The European Commission has also confirmed that no third-party website or agency is currently authorized to offer ETIAS services.
How to Protect Yourself from ETIAS Scams
As the rollout of EES begins and the ETIAS launch nears, travellers must be extra cautious. Here are some key steps to stay safe:
✅ 1. Don’t Apply Yet
ETIAS hasn’t launched. There’s no need to apply or pay any fees before 2026. Any website claiming otherwise is fraudulent.
✅ 2. Always Use Official Sources
When the system goes live, applications will only be accepted through the official EU ETIAS website — not through any private agency, app, or social media link.
✅ 3. Avoid Clicking on Unverified Links
Ignore emails, messages, or ads promoting early ETIAS registration. Never click on suspicious links or download attachments claiming to help you apply.
✅ 4. Check the Website Domain
The official ETIAS website will end with “.europa.eu”, which is used by all legitimate EU institutions.
✅ 5. Report Suspicious Websites
If you come across fake ETIAS sites or scams, report them to your country’s consumer protection agency or directly to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).
The Difference Between EES and ETIAS
It’s easy to confuse these two programs, but they serve different purposes.
| Feature | EES (Entry/Exit System) | ETIAS (Travel Authorisation) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | October 2025 | Late 2026 (mandatory by 2027) |
| Purpose | Records traveller entries and exits | Pre-screening of visa-exempt travellers |
| Who It Affects | Non-EU travellers entering/exiting Schengen | Non-EU travellers without visa requirements |
| Cost | Free | €20 |
| Biometrics | Required | Not required |
| Validity | N/A | 3 years or until passport expires |
Why the EU Is Introducing These Systems
The EU’s goal with both EES and ETIAS is to enhance border security and simplify travel procedures. With increasing global travel and security challenges, the systems aim to:
- Reduce illegal overstays by monitoring entry and exit records digitally.
- Strengthen background checks on travellers before they arrive.
- Speed up border crossings through automation.
- Protect the Schengen Zone’s integrity and safety.
Although the systems may seem complex at first, they will ultimately make European travel safer and more efficient for millions of visitors.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert and Travel Smart
With the EES launching in October 2025 and ETIAS following in late 2026, now is the time to educate yourself and prepare — but not to apply.
Remember:
- ETIAS is not yet active, so don’t fall for scams promising early registration.
- Always rely on official EU websites for information.
- Share this awareness with friends, family, and fellow travellers to help prevent fraud.
Europe remains one of the most exciting and diverse travel destinations in the world, and these new systems are designed to keep it that way — safe, secure, and ready to welcome travellers responsibly.
