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TRAVEL WARNING: Aussies cautioned against using unauthorised US visa websites

Travellers are being advised to double check that they're using the right website to apply for their US visa after some Aussies were overcharged by unauthorised sites.

Travellers are being advised to double check that they’re using the right website to apply for their US visa after some Aussies were overcharged by unauthorised sites.

The warning came from Queensland Police who said Aussies have been overcharged and putting their data at risk by using unauthorised third-party providers to secure their US visa, also known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).

For those who aren’t aware, the ESTA is required by Australians travelling to the USA for leisure, business or transit.

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In a statement to The Courier Mail, Queensland Police said travellers need to be careful about who they apply with because while some third-party providers are lawful, others are fraudulent.

“These websites vary in how they operate and while some websites are lawful third-party providers charging significant ‘service fees’, other websites fraudulently impersonate the US Government and charge customers exorbitant amounts without ever providing the visa waiver.”

Queensland Police

“While personal information is used by many businesses for legitimate purposes, this is not always the case; providing your personal information to these websites could be putting your personal information at risk.”

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Police continued, advising travellers that the cost of a visa waiver obtained through the official ESTA site should only cost around US$14. It should also include a straightforward and easy online application, click here to access the website.

Those who have been affected by a US visa scam are being urged to contact Scamwatch by clicking here.

Have any of your clients accidentally booked a US visa through the wrong channel?