Korea ETA FAQ | Helpful and Updated Answers for 2025

What is the Korea K-ETA?

The Korea ETA also known as K-ETA is a new visa waiver program that is being introduced to South Korea.

As of 2021, all visitors now need to follow a quick and simple online application process to gain authorization to enter the country. The travel document they receive digitally is what is known as the K-ETA.

Who needs a K-ETA to enter South Korea?

Short-term travelers from eligible countries require a K-ETA. The countries eligible for the Korean ETA are the same ones which prior to 2021 did not require a visa or documentation of any kind to enter South Korea.

The full list of eligible countries can be found on the eligible countries list. If your country of citizenship appears on this list, you will be required to fill out the K-ETA form and await approval before you depart.

Do children need a Korean K-ETA?

Yes. All travelers need to have the appropriate approval and documentation before they enter, from newborn babies to senior citizens.

Does the K-ETA grant permission to work in South Korea?

No. The Korea ETA is intended for short-term visitors only. It does not permit work, study or long-term residency in South Korea. Those found working for pay while in South Korea on the K-ETA may face penalties.

What does it mean to have a Korean ETA authorization?

Receiving ETA authorization allows you to travel to South Korea if your passport is from country on the list. It permits a stay of up to 90 days (depending on the nationality). If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a different visa.

Does the K-ETA grant me entry into other countries?

No. The ETA for South Korea is specific to South Korea. All other countries have their own entry requirements, which you will need to check separately.

How do I apply for a Korean K-ETA?

You can apply for the K-ETA online. Our application portal is streamlined for maximum ease and accessibility. Simply enter your details and wait for your K-ETA to be emailed to you.

What documents do I need to apply?

The most important document is a valid passport – make sure it will be in date when you fly.

How long does it take to apply for the Korean K-ETA?

If you are organized and load the form with your personal details and passport on hand, the application can take less than 15 minutes.

I have submitted my Korean K-ETA, when will I receive my digital copy?

You should receive a confirmation of your submission immediately. In terms of when you can expect to receive approval – usually it is done within just a few days, but allow up to a week or in some rare cases 2 weeks.

Can I get a K-ETA on arrival?

No. The K-ETA must be submitted and approved before you depart. Entering South Korea without the K-ETA means entering without the necessary travel approval.

Do not confuse the Korean ETA with visa on arrival – it is an entirely different system and needs to be done in advance.

Can I apply for a Korean ETA without a biometric passport?

Yes, holders of both biometric and non-biometric passports can apply for a K-ETA.

Can I apply for a K-ETA with a passport close to expiration?

We do not recommend it. Ideally, your passport will be valid for at least six months after your date of departure.

Do I need to carry my K-ETA on me while in South Korea?

You will need to have access to your K-ETA while in South Korea, as you are likely to be asked to present it to border guards. You can print out a physical copy or simply show it on your smartphone screen when asked.

Can I apply for a K-ETA with dual citizenship?

Yes. Simply apply using whichever passport you intend to travel with.

How can I correct a mistake in my application?

After submission, corrections aren’t possible, and you will need to fill out a new form.

In which cases should I apply for a new K-ETA if I already have a valid one?

You need to submit a new K-ETA application if you get a new passport, or if you change your name, gender, or country of citizenship.

Can I enter South Korea multiple times with an approved ETA?

It depends on your nationality, the exact entry permission will be visible on your approved K-ETA.

What should I do if I want to stay in South Korea for more than 30 days?

A K-ETA permits a stay of up to 90 days (depending on the nationality). For a longer stay, you must apply for a different visa.

Can I be denied entry with an approved K-ETA?

A valid K-ETA does not guarantee entry to South Korea. Border control officers can deny entry for other reasons.

Will airlines require a copy of my K-ETA before boarding?

While the government doesn’t mandate airlines to ask for printed confirmation, it’s advisable to have the confirmation number or a printed copy according to the airline’s guidelines.

Why was my Korean ETA application rejected?

Your K-ETA may be delayed or rejected if your application details were incorrect, incomplete or intentionally omitted. It may also be rejected if you have a serious criminal background or have a history of violating the terms of your stay in South Korea before.

My previous K-ETA was denied, can I still apply for a new one?

Yes, you can. However, you may risk being denied again for the same reasons. Make sure to address the issues in your application before submitting a new one. In some cases, you may need to apply for a traditional visa.

Is the ETA for Korea refundable if my travel plans change?

No. However, the application fee for the K-ETA is reasonable.

Can my K-ETA approval be revoked during its validity?

The Korea ETA also known as K-ETA is a new visa waiver program that is being introduced to South Korea.

As of 2021, all visitors now need to follow a quick and simple online application process to gain authorization to enter the country. The travel document they receive digitally is what is known as the K-ETA.

Short-term travelers from eligible countries require a K-ETA. The countries eligible for the Korean ETA are the same ones which prior to 2021 did not require a visa or documentation of any kind to enter South Korea.

The full list of eligible countries can be found on the eligible countries list. If your country of citizenship appears on this list, you will be required to fill out the K-ETA form and await approval before you depart.

Yes. All travelers need to have the appropriate approval and documentation before they enter, from newborn babies to senior citizens.

No. The Korea ETA is intended for short-term visitors only. It does not permit work, study or long-term residency in South Korea. Those found working for pay while in South Korea on the K-ETA may face penalties.

Receiving ETA authorization allows you to travel to South Korea if your passport is from country on the list. It permits a stay of up to 90 days (depending on the nationality). If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a different visa.

No. The ETA for South Korea is specific to South Korea. All other countries have their own entry requirements, which you will need to check separately.

You can apply for the K-ETA online. Our application portal is streamlined for maximum ease and accessibility. Simply enter your details and wait for your K-ETA to be emailed to you.

The most important document is a valid passport – make sure it will be in date when you fly.

If you are organized and load the form with your personal details and passport on hand, the application can take less than 15 minutes.

You should receive a confirmation of your submission immediately. In terms of when you can expect to receive approval – usually it is done within just a few days, but allow up to a week or in some rare cases 2 weeks.

No. The K-ETA must be submitted and approved before you depart. Entering South Korea without the K-ETA means entering without the necessary travel approval.

Do not confuse the Korean ETA with visa on arrival – it is an entirely different system and needs to be done in advance.

Yes, holders of both biometric and non-biometric passports can apply for a K-ETA.

We do not recommend it. Ideally, your passport will be valid for at least six months after your date of departure.

You will need to have access to your K-ETA while in South Korea, as you are likely to be asked to present it to border guards. You can print out a physical copy or simply show it on your smartphone screen when asked.

Yes. Simply apply using whichever passport you intend to travel with.

After submission, corrections aren’t possible, and you will need to fill out a new form.

You need to submit a new K-ETA application if you get a new passport, or if you change your name, gender, or country of citizenship.

It depends on your nationality, the exact entry permission will be visible on your approved K-ETA.

A K-ETA permits a stay of up to 90 days (depending on the nationality). For a longer stay, you must apply for a different visa.

A valid K-ETA does not guarantee entry to South Korea. Border control officers can deny entry for other reasons.

While the government doesn’t mandate airlines to ask for printed confirmation, it’s advisable to have the confirmation number or a printed copy according to the airline’s guidelines.

Your K-ETA may be delayed or rejected if your application details were incorrect, incomplete or intentionally omitted. It may also be rejected if you have a serious criminal background or have a history of violating the terms of your stay in South Korea before.

Yes, you can. However, you may risk being denied again for the same reasons. Make sure to address the issues in your application before submitting a new one. In some cases, you may need to apply for a traditional visa.

No. However, the application fee for the K-ETA is reasonable.

Yes, a K-ETA can be revoked for immigration or security reasons during its validity.