The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) was due to come into effect soon after the rollout of the EU's parallel border scheme, the Entry-Exit System (EES). Both systems have been repeatedly postponed, and persistent problems with EES software, particularly at French entry points, mean Etias remains suspended with no new launch date set.
Abta director of public affairs Luke Petherbridge confirmed that while Etias was expected this year, it is now back on hold. "Abta believes it shouldn't be brought in until EES is fully operational and working properly," he said. He noted that European authorities believe over 150 websites already exist offering Etias, but only one official site should be used when the system goes live.
The pan-European border agency Frontex had warned about scam websites long before Etias was to be introduced. Commercial sites can legitimately apply for the waivers on behalf of clients, but Frontex said the risks ranged from data protection and identity theft to extortionate fees. Some unofficial websites mimic the official site's layout and use convincing domain names while providing inaccurate information about who needs an Etias.
"If you use one of these sites, not only will you lose money, you are also putting your personal data at risk as well," Petherbridge said. "What I can't stress is enough that you can't " and shouldn't " apply for an Etias now."
When Etias eventually launches, non-EU citizens from visa-exempt countries including the UK, US, Australia and Canada will need to pay a fee of €20 (£17) for an electronic waiver to enter the Schengen zone. Over-70s and under-18s do not need to pay. Abta research shows awareness of the impending border requirements has grown from 41% in 2024 to 56% now.
Meanwhile, EES is in full operation but the EU has told border authorities they will not enforce penalties if they suspend the system at entry points when queues escalate. Abta surveys found that only 46% of visitors to Europe reported having full checks, with half of those people waiting less than 30 minutes and only 13% queuing for an hour.