In short (updated October 2026): K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is the online pre-travel authorisation that visa-free visitors must hold before boarding a flight or ship to South Korea. It costs KRW 10,000, is usually decided within 72 hours and is valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires) for multiple trips. Nationals of 22 countries and regions – including the USA, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Japan, Singapore and Australia – are temporarily exempt until 31 December 2026, and travellers aged 17 or under or 65 or over do not need one.
| K-ETA at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| Official fee | KRW 10,000 (about USD 7–8), non-refundable |
| Processing | Usually within 72 hours – apply at least 72 hours before boarding |
| Validity | 3 years from approval, multiple entries (ends earlier if the passport expires) |
| Stay per visit | Set by the visa-free rules for your nationality (typically 30–90 days) |
| Temporary exemption | 22 countries and regions until 31 December 2026 |
| Arrival card | Not needed with an approved K-ETA; otherwise use the free e-Arrival Card |
| Official website | k-eta.go.kr and the official K-ETA app |
What Is K-ETA? (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization Explained)
K-ETA stands for Korea Electronic Travel Authorization — an online pre-entry authorization system operated by the Korea Immigration Service under the Ministry of Justice.
It was introduced to allow South Korea to screen travelers from visa-exempt countries before they arrive at the border, similar to the US ESTA, Canada’s eTA, or Australia’s ETA.
K-ETA is not a visa. It is a pre-entry authorization that fulfills some — but not all — of the requirements for entering South Korea without a visa. An approved K-ETA does not guarantee entry into the Republic of Korea. The final entry decision is always made by a Korea Immigration Service officer at the port of entry.
Key Facts about K-ETA
- Who needs it: Nationals of visa-free countries who wish to enter South Korea without a visa
- Where to apply: Only at the official website www.k-eta.go.kr or the official K-ETA mobile app
- What it is NOT: A visa, a guarantee of entry, or something that can be obtained through third-party agencies
- Managed by: Korea Immigration Service, Ministry of Justice, Republic of Korea
K-ETA approval allows travelers to pass through immigration more conveniently — holders are exempt from submitting the arrival card (e-Arrival Card) when entering South Korea. This is one of the key practical benefits of holding an approved K-ETA even when the exemption is in effect.
Who needs a K-ETA in 2026?
K-ETA applies to nationals of the 112 countries and regions that can enter South Korea without a visa (67 under visa-waiver agreements and 45 with visa-free entry for tourism or transit). They must hold an approved K-ETA before boarding – unless they are covered by one of the exemptions below. Nationals of countries that need a Korean visa cannot use K-ETA and apply for a visa at a Korean embassy or consulate instead.
22 countries and regions exempt until 31 December 2026
| Region | Temporarily exempt from K-ETA |
|---|---|
| Asia | Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao, Singapore |
| Americas | United States (including Guam), Canada |
| Europe | Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom |
| Oceania | Australia, New Zealand |
The exemption has applied since 1 April 2023 and was extended twice – to 31 December 2025 and then to 31 December 2026. As of October 2026 no further extension had been announced: unless Korea extends it again, travellers from these countries will need a K-ETA for trips from 1 January 2027. While exempt, they submit an arrival card (the free online e-Arrival Card) instead, or apply for a K-ETA voluntarily.
Who else does not need a K-ETA
- Travellers aged 17 or under and 65 or over (since 3 July 2023)
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports
- APEC Business Travel Card holders
- Foreign residents with a valid Korean residence card
- Aircraft and ship crew, and transit passengers who do not pass through Korean immigration
Examples of nationalities that must apply for a K-ETA now: Malaysia, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Ireland, Switzerland, Portugal and Greece. Check your nationality on k-eta.go.kr before you travel.
K-ETA and the Korea e-Arrival Card
The e-Arrival Card is a free online arrival declaration that replaces filling in the paper arrival card on the plane. It is submitted at e-arrivalcard.go.kr within 3 days (72 hours, Korean time) before arrival, and no printout is needed. Travellers holding an approved K-ETA, a valid Korean residence card or an e-Group visa do not submit an arrival card at all.
| K-ETA | e-Arrival Card | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pre-travel authorisation to board and enter | Arrival declaration for immigration |
| Fee | KRW 10,000 | Free |
| When | At least 72 hours before boarding | Within 3 days before arrival |
| Valid for | 3 years, multiple entries | One arrival |
| Who uses it | Visa-free nationals who are not exempt | Visitors without a K-ETA – e.g. nationals of the 22 exempt countries, travellers under 18 or aged 65+, visa holders |
| Official site | k-eta.go.kr | e-arrivalcard.go.kr |
Travellers from exempt countries may still apply for a K-ETA voluntarily (same KRW 10,000 fee) and then skip the arrival card on every trip for 3 years. Paper arrival cards may still be available at immigration, but submitting online before the flight is faster.
How to Apply for K-ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
Apply for K-ETA only at the official website www.k-eta.go.kr or the K-ETA mobile app entirely online. Processing typically takes up to 72 hours, so apply well before your travel date.
- Step 1: Terms and Conditions Agreement
Read and agree to the K-ETA terms and conditions on the official portal. - Step 2: Select Nationality
Choose your country of nationality. If your country is currently exempt, a pop-up notification will appear confirming no application is required. - Step 3: Enter Passport Information
Input your passport details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload a photo of your passport information page. - Step 4: Enter Application Information
Provide your travel details: purpose of entry, address of intended stay in Korea, contact information, expected arrival and departure dates, and information on any accompanying persons. - Step 5: Upload Photo
Submit a recent passport-style photograph meeting the K-ETA photo requirements. - Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the 10,000 KRW (~USD 7-8) application fee online. Note: an additional online payment processing fee is charged separately. The fee is non-refundable even if the application is denied. - Step 7: Submit and Wait for Result
Submit your application and wait for the result. You will receive notification by email. Processing takes generally within 72 hours, though it may take longer during peak periods.
Member vs. Non-member accounts: You can apply as a guest (non-member) or create an account (member). Members can check results and update information without email verification and can view all application details at once.
Documents Required for K-ETA Application
Before starting your K-ETA application, prepare the following:
- Valid passport — must be valid for the duration of your stay (ideally with at least 6 months validity)
- Passport photo page — digital scan or photo of the information page
- Recent passport-style photograph — meeting K-ETA photo specifications
- Travel details — purpose of visit, accommodation address in Korea, arrival/departure dates
- Payment method — credit or debit card for the 10,000 KRW fee
- Email address — for receiving the K-ETA result notification
How to Check Your K-ETA Application Status
After submitting your K-ETA application, check the result via:
- Email notification — K-ETA sends the result to your registered email address
- K-ETA website — log in to your account (members) or use the “Check Application Results” function with your email (non-members)
- K-ETA mobile app — check status directly in the app
If your K-ETA has not been processed within 72 hours, check your spam folder first, then use the “Ask Us” inquiry function on the K-ETA website. Note: the K-ETA Center does not provide telephone or face-to-face consultations.
K-ETA Cost, Processing Time & Validity
K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (~USD 7-8), takes up to 72 hours to process, and remains valid for 3 years with unlimited multiple entries.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Application fee | 10,000 KRW (~USD 7-8) |
| Online payment processing fee | Charged separately (varies) |
| Fee refundable? | No — non-refundable even if denied |
| Processing time | Generally within 72 hours |
| Expedited processing | Not available |
| Validity period | 3 years (or until passport expiry, whichever is shorter) |
| Number of entries | Multiple entries within validity period |
| Pre-2023 validity | 2 years (applications submitted before July 3, 2023) |
Important Notes on Validity
K-ETA validity is separate from the visa-free stay period. Having a valid K-ETA does not mean you can stay in South Korea for 3 years — your permitted stay is determined by your nationality’s visa-free stay allowance (typically 30, 60, or 90 days per entry). Check the K-ETA website’s eligibility page for your country’s specific visa-free stay period.
Processing Time
While K-ETA typically processes within 72 hours, processing may take longer during periods of high application volume. There is no expedited service. Apply at least 72 hours before your departure — ideally several days in advance.
K-ETA vs Visa: Key Differences Explained
K-ETA is not a visa — it is a pre-entry authorization that does not guarantee entry into South Korea; the final entry decision is always made by a Korea Immigration Service officer at the port of entry.
Many travelers confuse K-ETA with a visa. Here is a clear comparison:
| Feature | K-ETA | South Korea Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it | Visa-free nationals | Nationals of non-visa-free countries |
| Purpose | Pre-entry authorization | Entry permission |
| Guarantees entry? | No | No (final decision at border) |
| Cost | ~USD 7-8 | USD 40-90+ (varies by type) |
| Processing time | Up to 72 hours | Days to weeks |
| Validity | 3 years, multiple entries | Varies by visa type |
| Where to apply | k-eta.go.kr (online only) | Korean embassy/consulate |
| Permitted stay | Per country’s visa-free allowance | Per visa conditions |
When Do You Need a Visa Instead of K-ETA?
- Your nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry to South Korea
- You plan to stay longer than your visa-free allowance permits
- You are traveling for purposes not covered by visa-free entry (e.g., certain types of employment)
- You hold a valid Residence Card or Overseas Korean Resident Card (in which case your Residence Card status takes precedence over K-ETA)
Visa-free stay periods vary by country. For example, US, Canadian, and most European nationals can stay up to 90 days per entry without a visa. Check the official K-ETA eligibility page for your country’s specific allowance.
Important K-ETA Rules You Must Know
K-ETA holders must reapply after getting a new passport and must update travel information if plans change after approval — failure to do so can result in entry denial.
When You Must Reapply for K-ETA
Even if your K-ETA has not expired, you must apply for a new K-ETA in the following situations:
- Your passport has been reissued — A new passport means a new K-ETA is required, even if your old K-ETA is still within its validity period. Your K-ETA is linked to your specific passport number.
- Your criminal record has changed — If there have been any changes to your criminal record since your K-ETA was issued, you must reapply.
- Your infectious disease information has changed — If you have been diagnosed with a notifiable infectious disease since your K-ETA was issued, you must reapply.
These reapplication requirements apply equally to all accompanying applicants listed on your K-ETA application.
Updating Travel Information After Approval
If your travel plans change after your K-ETA has been approved, you must update your travel information on the K-ETA website before traveling. Specifically, you must update:
- Purpose of entry
- Address of intended stay in Korea
- Contact information
- Expected arrival and departure dates
- Information on accompanying persons
Failure to update this information may result in entry denial or other disadvantages at the port of entry. Use the “Update Travel Information” function on the official K-ETA website (www.k-eta.go.kr) to make changes.
What Happens If Your K-ETA Is Denied?
A denied K-ETA means you cannot board your flight or ship to South Korea; you may reapply, but there is no expedited review process and the application fee is non-refundable.
K-ETA denial is relatively uncommon for travelers with clean records, but it does happen.
Consequences of K-ETA Denial
- You will not be permitted to board your flight or ship to South Korea
- Airlines and shipping companies are required to check K-ETA status before boarding
- The 10,000 KRW application fee is non-refundable even if denied
Common Reasons for K-ETA Denial
- False or inaccurate information submitted on the application
- Criminal record issues
- Previous immigration violations in South Korea
- Infectious disease concerns
- Incomplete or incorrect passport information
What to Do if Your K-ETA is Denied
- Review your application for errors — incorrect passport numbers, misspelled names, or wrong dates are common causes
- Correct any errors and reapply through the official K-ETA website
- If you believe the denial is in error, use the “Ask Us” inquiry function on the K-ETA website
- Note: there is no expedited review service — all applications are processed in the order received
Penalties for False Information
Submitting false or inaccurate information on a K-ETA application can result in K-ETA refusal or cancellation, penalties under Korean law, and entry restrictions. These restrictions apply equally to all accompanying applicants listed on the application.
Contact for K-ETA Inquiries
The K-ETA Center does not provide telephone or face-to-face consultations. Submit inquiries through the “Ask Us” function at www.k-eta.go.kr. For general Korea travel inquiries, the 1330 Korea Travel Helpline is available by phone or chat.
K-ETA FAQ
Do I need a K-ETA to visit South Korea in 2026?
Only if your nationality is visa-free for Korea and not covered by an exemption. Nationals of the 22 exempt countries and regions (e.g. USA, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Australia) and travellers aged 17 or under or 65 or over can enter without a K-ETA until 31 December 2026; they submit the free e-Arrival Card instead.
Which countries are exempt from K-ETA until 31 December 2026?
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and the United States (including Guam).
Will the K-ETA exemption be extended into 2027?
As of October 2026 the Korean government had not announced a further extension. Unless it does, nationals of these 22 countries and regions will need an approved K-ETA for trips from 1 January 2027. Check k-eta.go.kr before booking.
How much does K-ETA cost and how long is it valid?
KRW 10,000 (about USD 7–8; a card processing fee may apply). It is valid for 3 years from approval for multiple entries, but becomes invalid if your passport expires or is replaced.
How long does K-ETA approval take?
Results are usually available within 72 hours, sometimes longer. Apply at least 72 hours before boarding – there is no express service and K-ETA cannot be obtained on arrival.
Do I need the e-Arrival Card if I have a K-ETA?
No. K-ETA holders are exempt from the arrival card. Travellers without a K-ETA submit the free e-Arrival Card online within 3 days before arrival.
Do children and seniors need a K-ETA?
No. Since 3 July 2023 travellers aged 17 or under and 65 or over are exempt from K-ETA, although they still submit an arrival card.
Official sources: k-eta.go.kr, immigration.go.kr (Korea Immigration Service), e-arrivalcard.go.kr and Korean embassy notices on mofa.go.kr – checked October 2026.