Planning a Trip to Korea? Check Your Entry Requirements First
Before you start booking flights or packing your suitcases, make sure you know what’s required to enter South Korea. Depending on your nationality and purpose of visit, South Korea requires all foreign travelers to have either:
- A K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization), or
- A Korean visa from the embassy or consulate
If you’re a visa-free country, K-ETA is usually all you need. But if you’re not eligible for K-ETA or plan to work, study, or stay longer, you’ll need a visa issued by a Korean embassy.
This post will help you figure out which one applies to you and guide you to the right application process.
What is K-ETA?
K-ETA is a digital travel authorization for visitors from visa-free countries. It allows you to enter Korea for tourism, business, or short-term stays without visiting an embassy.
It’s fast, easy, and fully online.
What if You’re Not Eligible for K-ETA? You’ll Need a Korean Visa
If your country isn’t eligible for K-ETA, or your trip is for a longer stay, study, or work, you’ll need to apply for a Korean visa at your nearest Korean embassy.
The most common type for travelers is the C-3 tourist visa, which allows short-term stays up to 90 days.