Tourists from 22 countries can enter the Republic of Korea without completing an online registration prior to their visit for another year. Until December 31, 2025, visitors are not required to complete the so-called K-ETA online form, which was originally introduced in 2021, but seldomly enforced. Among the nations affected by this change are many European countries, as well as the United States.
Passport holders of the following nations are affected by the rule:
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Canada
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hong Kong
- Italy
- Japan
- Macao
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Singapore
- Spain
- Sweden
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States of America (including Guam)
While K-ETA is no longer mandatory for these nationals, you can still use it. Tourists from these countries have two options when travelling to South Korea: Either complete K-ETA and pay the fee of ₩10,000 (~€6), or fill out the immigration form manually upon arrival. The latter might result in longer wait times.
Citizens of other countries still require K-ETA or a visa prior to departure. You have to file your K-ETA at least 72 hours before departure. It remains valid for three years and multiple entries.
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