Visa

Visa
& K-ETA

Korea visa and K-ETA, 2026 rules.

Most travelers from visa-exempt countries (US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, Singapore, Japan) do not need a tourist visa. Some still need K-ETA before boarding.

The only question that matters before you fly: visa, K-ETA, or neither?

Below: 2026 K-ETA exemption list, apply-before-you-fly checklist.

What do you actually need?

Pick the group your passport falls into.

Your passport

Group covers

Quick facts

K-ETA fee
₩10,000
Approval
Up to 72h
Validity
3 years
Visa-free stay
~90 days

Apply step-by-step

  1. Check the K-ETA website

    Go to k-eta.go.kr. Pick your nationality. The site tells you if you're exempt, need K-ETA, or need a full visa.

  2. Apply online (≥ 72h before departure)

    You'll need a passport valid 6+ months, a passport-style photo, your flight number, and your Korean accommodation address. Pay ₩10,000 by card. Apply individually. Group applications were discontinued.

  3. Wait for the email approval

    90% of applications return within 12 hours, but plan for up to 72h. Save the PDF and screenshot the QR. You may be asked at boarding.

  4. On arrival, file the e-Arrival Card

    Korea now accepts a digital arrival card at e-arrivalcard.go.kr. Submit within 3 days of arrival to skip the paper line at immigration.

Watch out for

  • Watch the URL Only the official site is real. Many .com look-alikes charge $40-60 for a free service. Bookmark the .go.kr domain.
  • K-ETA ≠ visa K-ETA is a pre-screen, not a visa. You can still be refused entry on arrival if your purpose changes.
  • Re-entry One K-ETA covers multiple visits within its 3-year validity. No need to re-apply each trip.

Sources

Updated April 2026. Exemption confirmed through Dec 31, 2026.

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