Frontex, the European Union's agency responsible for monitoring external borders, has cautioned travelers from visa-free countries to exercise caution regarding suspicious websites that offer information and services related to the upcoming European Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS).

The authority emphasizes that the sole official website for ETIAS is europa.eu/etias. While the website is currently not accepting applications, it will be fully operational by the first half of 2025 when the requirement becomes mandatory.

In addition to the website, travelers will have the option to download the ETIAS mobile app to apply. The app is still under development but will be accessible on both Android and iOS platforms once completed.

Frontex has expressed its concerns by revealing that it has identified more than 100 unofficial websites providing information about ETIAS to travelers from over 60 countries. These travelers currently enjoy visa-free and permission-free access to the 30 Schengen Area/EU countries.

The head of the agency noted that while some of these websites are legitimate, many others appear suspicious. In April of the previous year, the agency had raised similar concerns, noting that it had identified approximately 50 such websites. This indicates that within a year, their number has doubled.

According to Frontex, one of the primary risks associated with applying for an ETIAS through unofficial websites is the possibility of travelers being charged fees higher than the official €7 fee. Additionally, there is a risk of identity theft by these third-party entities. However, Frontex emphasizes that travelers will be legally allowed to authorize another person or a legitimate commercial intermediary to apply for their ETIAS on their behalf.

ETIAS is anticipated to commence operations in the first half of 2025, likely around May. Initially planned for launch in January 2021, the scheme has been postponed multiple times since then.