About South Korea K-ETA
The K-ETA is South Korea electronic travel authorization that allows foreigners from eligible countries to enter the Republic of Korea.
It was introduced in May 2021 to make visiting South Korea much easier, and now it is a mandatory document.
The K-ETA permits travel to the country for tourism and business purposes. During the 2-year validity period, its holders can enter Korea numerous times. Each visit mustn’t exceed 30, 60, or 90 days – depending on the traveler’s nationality.
The process of applying is simple, quick, and doesn’t require much effort or special knowledge.
Only three steps – and the K-ETA is ready! Just fill out the application form, make the payment, and wait for the approved travel authorization to arrive at the email address.
The processing time takes up only to 72 business hours. You need to print out the K-ETA, as it will be checked by officials on arrival.
Types of K-ETA
Currently, K-ETA is available in one type – a multiple-entry one.
Depending on citizenship, its holders can stay in South Korea for 30, 60, or 90 days each time.
With a K-ETA, travelers can enter the country for the following purposes:
- tourism, exploring South Korea
- leisure and recreation
- visiting relatives and friends
- taking part in meetings, conferences, or congresses
- attending seminars and trade fairs
How to apply for K-ETA to South Korea
South Korea electronic travel authorization enables travelers to avoid the visa hassle – attending an embassy or consulate, waiting in queues, and dealing with paperwork.
Now eligible citizens can apply online even from their homes. And there is no need to stick to business hours!
The K-ETA application process is simple and does not require any special computer skills.
Follow this instruction to know how the K-ETA application works:
- Fill out the application form.
You will need to provide some personal, passport and travel information, for example, your name, surname, citizenship, email address, planned arrival and departure dates, etc. You will also have to attach the required documents. Make sure that you filled in all the blanks and that the provided information is correct. It is important because any errors and an incomplete application form may cause delays. - Cover the K-ETA fee.
There are several online payment methods available, and all of them are secured. You are free to choose any of them. For example, many applicants use their debit or credit cards. - Check your inbox.
At first, you will receive the confirmation number, and later the approved K-ETA. It will be delivered directly to the email address you previously mentioned in the application form. Korean electronic travel authorization arrives in the form of a PDF document, and you have to print it out.
The processing of an application is usually completed within 72 hours.
We advise you to apply at least 3 working days in advance before your trip to be certain that you will have the approved K-ETA on time and won’t experience any issues because of delays at border control.
Validity period
South Korea electronic travel authorization stays valid for 2 years from the date of approval and cannot be extended.
Even if the K-ETA has not expired according to the validity period, you still must apply for a new electronic travel authorization if there are any changes to your information, such as:
- name
- sex
- date of birth
- nationality
- passport data (passport number and expiration date)
- infectious disease
- criminal record
South Korea ETA requirements
To be able to apply for Korea electronic travel authorization, you must be from an eligible country and meet some technical requirements for online application:
- have a working device – phone, laptop, tablet, or PC
- have a stable internet connection
- have an ability to pay online
- have access to an active email address
Required documents
During the application, you will need to attach the following necessary documents:
- a valid passport – it mustn’t expire within 6 months from the arrival date
- a recent photograph of your face – it may be taken by your phone or PC camera
Requirements on arrival
South Korea electronic travel authorization holders go through immigration entry more easily, as they do not have to submit the arrival card upon entry.
To enter the Republic of Korea, the applicants must have a printed K-ETA and a valid passport.
Note that the K-ETA approval doesn’t guarantee entry, as the final decision is made by the immigration official during entry immigration inspection.