Britons travelling to Europe have been advised against applying for the Etias visa waiver, as more than 150 websites are offering this service despite its introduction being delayed. Non-EU citizens, including UK travellers and those from other visa-exempt countries such as the US, Australia, and Canada, will soon need to pay €20 (£17) for an electronic waiver to enter the Schengen zone under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias).

Background on Etias

The Etias system was initially scheduled to come into effect following the rollout of the EU’s parallel border scheme, the Entry-Exit System (EES). However, both systems have faced repeated postponements. Issues following the introduction of the EES, particularly software problems at French entry points, have left the Etias system suspended.

Abta's Warning

Luke Petherbridge, the director of public affairs at the travel association Abta, stated:

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"While Etias was due to come into force this year, it is now back on hold. Abta believes it shouldn’t be brought in until EES is fully operational and working properly."

Petherbridge emphasized the importance of caution, noting that over 150 websites claiming to offer Etias services already exist, but there is only one official site for applications when it becomes live.