South Korea · Visas & Immigration

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

Name: K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
Brand: K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

Up to date as of October 21, 2026

K-ETA is Korea's online travel authorization for visa-free visitors, applied for before the flight. Nationals of 22 countries and regions are temporarily exempt until 31 December 2026.

What it helps with

Boarding a flight to KoreaAirlines check the K-ETA for travellers who are not exempt.
Skipping the arrival cardWith a valid K-ETA no e-Arrival Card is needed.
Frequent tripsOne approval covers 3 years of visits.

About K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization):

It is run by the Ministry of Justice. Approval usually comes by email within 24 hours and is valid for 3 years or until the passport expires. With a valid K-ETA you do not fill in the e-Arrival Card.

Key Features:

Validity: 3 years, or until the passport expires if sooner.
Timing: Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
Arrival card: K-ETA holders skip the e-Arrival Card.
Exemption: 22 countries and regions are exempt until 31 December 2026 (list on k-eta.go.kr).

How to Get Started:

Check on k-eta.go.kr whether your nationality is exempt in 2026.
Apply on the website or the K-ETA app with passport, photo and trip details.
Pay KRW 10,000 by card.
Wait for the email, usually within 24 hours, before you fly.

Before you use it

Fees: The fee is KRW 10,000 and is not refunded if the application is refused.
Sign-up: Apply at least 72 hours before departure; results normally come within 24 hours.
Good to know: Exempt nationals can still apply to skip the e-Arrival Card.

Foreign card OK English available

Frequently Asked Questions

Does K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) work with a foreign bank card in South Korea?: Yes — K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) accepts foreign-issued cards in South Korea.
Is K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) available in English?: Yes, K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)?: No, an international phone number generally works for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization).
Do I need local ID or residency for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)?: No, K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
Where can I use K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)?: Web · iOS · Android
How much does K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) cost?: KRW 10,000 per person, paid by card; not refundable