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Travellers to the United Kingdom now need a digital travel authorisation called ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). However, consumer advocates are warning of widespread online scams that are catching many people off guard, German media report.
Since 2 April 2025, most non-visa visitors to the UK – including tourists from the EU – must apply for an ETA before entering the country. But many are falling victim to fake websites posing as official government platforms.
Fake Websites Charge Excessive Fees
A common trap: when you search online for “ETA UK application,” the top results often link to third-party websites rather than the official British government portal. These sites are designed to look legitimate but charge up to €100 – five times the official fee – for unnecessary services or even just redirecting users to the actual government site.
In many cases, travellers are tricked into thinking their application is being processed, when in fact nothing has been submitted. The real cost of an ETA is just under €20, and the official approval is delivered by email.
How to Apply Safely
To avoid being scammed, only use the two official channels for your ETA application:
1. The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’, which can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store. Make sure the publisher is listed as the UK Home Office or UK Visas and Immigration.
2. The UK Government Website – accessible at: https://www.gov.uk/
Be sure to check your email inbox regularly for your ETA confirmation once you’ve applied.
If You’ve Been Scammed
If you accidentally used a third-party provider, don’t give up. Document the transaction and contact the provider to request a refund. You can also call your bank or credit card company to try to reverse the payment.
Keep all receipts and correspondence. If you’ve entered personal information, you have the right under EU data protection law (GDPR) to request that your data be deleted. Guidance is available from your local consumer protection agency.
Watch Out When Travelling to the US Too
Similar scams exist for the US travel permit (ESTA). Always make sure you’re applying through an official government site – it should end in “.gov”. Websites ending in “.com” or “.org” are not legitimate government services.
Stay alert and double-check URLs before submitting your information or making any payments.
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