Entry overview: check YOUR passport first

Critical rule

Never copy another traveler’s entry checklist blindly. Requirements depend on your passport, purpose of visit, and travel dates. Always confirm on official sites before you book non-refundable plans. This page is a planning overview, not legal advice.

Four different things (do not mix them up)

An approved K-ETA is typically valid for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first — it does not extend your visa-free stay length. Details and timing for K-ETA / e-Arrival: see Electronic arrival.

Decision path (high level)

1. 1
   Check your nationality on www.visa.go.kr: do you need a visa, or are you visa-free for this trip?
2. 2
   If visa-free, check www.k-eta.go.kr: do you need a K-ETA, or are you on the temporary K-ETA exemption list?
3. 3
   Separately check whether you must submit an e-Arrival card (use the site Navigator or who must submit). K-ETA-exempt travelers are generally on the subject list; valid K-ETA holders are generally excluded (visa entries can differ). Full table → Electronic arrival.
4. 4
   Keep hotel/stay address, return/onward plan, and funds proof ready if immigration asks.
5. 5
   For broader foreigner services and stay questions after arrival, use Hi Korea (EN) or Immigration Contact Center 1345 (Korea) / +82-1345 (abroad).

Temporary K-ETA exemption (through 31 Dec 2026, KST)

The Ministry of Justice extended the temporary K-ETA exemption for designated nationals through December 31, 2026 (KST).

Example lists published by Visit Korea (page note: updated 2026-04-21) include:

• Asia: Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau
• North America: United States (including Guam), Canada
• Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Poland, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Belgium, Denmark, Austria
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand

Always confirm the live list on www.k-eta.go.kr — other jurisdictions may appear on embassy/K-ETA notices, and lists change. During K-ETA signup, a pop-up may tell you if your nationality is exempt.

Exempt travelers may still voluntarily apply for K-ETA (fee applies; usually non-refundable) if they want K-ETA-linked benefits such as not submitting an arrival card. Existing approved K-ETAs remain usable until their own expiry.

Before you book or board — verify for *you*

• [ ] Passport validity and nationality rules on www.visa.go.kr
• [ ] K-ETA needed vs temporary exemption on www.k-eta.go.kr (apply only on the official site/app; fee ~KRW 10,000 / ~USD 7–8; assessment generally within 72 hours)
• [ ] e-Arrival required or not on www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr — free; do not pay on look-alike sites
• [ ] Permitted stay length for your passport (K-ETA validity ≠ stay length)
• [ ] Hotel/stay address and return/onward ticket ready for immigration questions

What this wiki does not do

• Tell you that *your* passport is exempt or visa-free.
• Guarantee boarding or entry (airlines and immigration make final checks).
• Replace the deep prep on Electronic arrival (timing windows, who must submit, fake-site warnings).

See also: Electronic arrival, Immigration FAQ, Airport arrival (ICN).