CPB Warning: Misleading Websites Charging Consumers Excessive Fees for U.K. ETA Applications

The Consumer Protection Bureau (CPB) has been alerted to a concerning case in which a consumer was nearly misled into paying $109 (USD) for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) — a document that costs only £16 (approx. $21.52 USD) when obtained directly from the official U.K. Government website.

The website in question gave the impression of being an official government service but only revealed its inflated fee at the point of payment. This represents a mark-up of more than 500%, leaving consumers exposed to potential financial detriment.

CPB is investigating this matter and has written to the company demanding clarification and transparency. We remind all travellers:

The official U.K. ETA application can only be obtained from the U.K. Government’s official website for £16.

Be cautious of third-party websites that disguise themselves as official services. If you encounter such practices, report them to CPB or Trading Standards.

This case highlights the urgent need for stronger regulation and mandatory disclosures, ensuring that consumers are not misled into overpaying for essential services. CPB will continue pressing for reforms to protect travellers and to hold companies accountable for unfair practices.