Archived Newsletters

March 2026
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ETIAS TRAVEL TO EUROPE - MYTH VS FACT

European Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS)

 

Etias is a Visa?  MYTH

ETIAS is not a visa. It’s a pre-travel electronic authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries (Canada included) travelling to certain European destinations.

 

ETIAS has already started and I need to apply now?  MYTH

ETIAS is not operational yet. It’s expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026, with a transitional period before it becomes mandatory.

 

Once approved, ETIAS is valid for mulitiple trips?  FACT

An approved ETIAS is generally valid for up to 3 years (or until your passport expires), allowing multiple short trips.

 

ETIAS approval guarantees entry into Europe?   MYTH

Final entry is always decided by border authorities when you arrive.

 

Everyone has to pay the ETIAS fee?   MYTH

While most visa-exempt travellers must apply, some groups (such as those under 18 or over 70) may be exempt from paying the fee, though they still need to apply.

 

ETIAS replaces Visas for work, study or long stays?   MYTH

ETIAS is only for short stays of up to 90 days (tourism, business, transit). Long-term stays, work, or study still require a visa or residence permit.

 

You can apply for ETIAS through any travel website?   MYTH

Applications should be submitted through the official EU ETIAS portal once it goes live. Applicants should be aware third parties often charge high fees for low value.

 

ETIAS fees vary depending on where you apply?   MYTH

ETIAS has a set official fees under EU rules. Higher prices usually come from third-party services, not the EU system itself.

 

Stay informed, apply through official channels and plan ahead!

LEARN MORE...CLICK HERE

 

 
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TRAVELLING WITH ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Travelling with devices such as phones, tablets and laptops offers convenience and connectivity. However, these devices are also at risk of cyber threats, including data breaches and theft. 

BEFORE YOU GO

  • Install anti-virus and spyware protection, set up a firewall and configure the anti-virus software to check any storage devices you connect to, such as USB or external hard drives.
  • Lock your device with a PIN or password and enable multifactor authentication—but understand that this alone doesn’t fully protect the data stored on it. You also need extra security like encryption to keep your files safe even if someone gets past the lock. Keep in mind that multifactor authentication may not work when roaming or if you are using an in-country SIM card.
  • Encrypt your devices and use strong passwords or biometrics to protect your data and enhance security features. Consider using a password manager tool that can generate safer passwords.
  • Enable options that remotely erase data or lock your device in case it’s lost or stolen.
  • Back up your data to a secure location (e.g. cloud storage).

WHILE YOU ARE AWAY

Protect yourself from fraud or cybercrime:

  • Do not share your social media details and travel plans with strangers and consider making accounts private. The available information could enable malicious individuals to exploit potential risks or weaknesses.
  • Wait to post photos or details online until after you’ve left a location.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and prevent others from seeing your screen or keyboard.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data when not in use and use a VPN if available and legal at your destination.
  • Do not charge your devices using public computers or docking stations.
  • Use encrypted messaging apps instead of regular SMS or non-secure messages.
  • Do not use unknown devices and storage media such as CDs, DVDs or USB drives as they may carry malware.

PUBLIC Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure and can be easily hacked. Attackers can set up fake networks with names similar to the trusted ones to steal personal information. Public Wi-Fi can be found in hotels, shopping centres, airports and private companies’ guest Wi-Fi.

  • Always confirm the name of any Wi-Fi network before connecting.
  • Do not log into sensitive accounts (such as for banking) or send sensitive information while connected to a public Wi-Fi network.
  • If you have to use public Wi-Fi, use your business or personal VPN.

Bluetooth allows for easy pairing and data exchange between devices but can expose your device to unauthorized access if not managed properly. Pairing devices with public or rental vehicles can store your personal information on their systems.

  • Be cautious when pairing devices with cars, especially rental cars. If you do, remove your device from any pairing system, especially rental cars, to delete data it may have stored.
  • Disable Bluetooth when not in use.
  • Remove lost or stolen devices from your Bluetooth paired devices list.
  • Check your device’s Bluetooth settings for automatic connection features and then disable them.

STEPS TO REDUCE RISKS WHILE TRAVELLING

  • Download or update apps only from official app stores before you travel.
  • Disable app installations from unknown sources on your devices.
  • Mobile payment methods (Apple Pay, Google Pay) may be targeted by fraudulent point-of-sale systems outside Canada.
  • Use mobile payments only at reputable, well-established businesses.
  • Regularly check your bank and credit card transactions for suspicious charges.

CLICK HERE for the Government of Canada Cyber Security information pages