South Korean visa resources
K-ETA and Visa-Free Entry to South Korea
How the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization works for visa-waiver and visa-free nationals, and the temporary exemption currently in effect.
Important
Nationals of visa-waiver and designated visa-free countries can enter South Korea for short stays without a visa, but are normally required to hold a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), applied for online before travel at k-eta.go.kr or via the official K-ETA app. K-ETA is for tourism, visiting family, attending events or meetings, and non-remunerative business.
The Korean government has periodically exempted certain nationalities from the K-ETA requirement as a travel-facilitation measure, with a temporary exemption running through the end of 2026 for eligible countries. Whether you currently need a K-ETA therefore depends on your nationality and the exemption in force at your travel date.
Applicants should only use the official K-ETA website or app and avoid third-party sites that charge inflated fees. Travellers should also be aware of the separate e-Arrival Card requirement operated by the immigration authorities.
Key points
- K-ETA is for visa-free and visa-waiver nationals making short visits, not a work authorization.
- Apply only through the official portal k-eta.go.kr or the official K-ETA app.
- A temporary K-ETA exemption for eligible nationalities is in effect through 31 December 2026 — confirm whether it applies to you.
- Holding a K-ETA does not guarantee entry; the immigration officer makes the final decision.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.