South Korea Visa? K-ETA? What’s Required For Traveling? A Complete 2025 Guide
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in 2025, you might be wondering: Do I need a South Korea Visa, or can short-term travelers enter without one?
This essential guide will help you understand whether you need a visa or a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization), how to apply, and which countries are currently exempt.
What is a K-ETA and How It Differs from a South Korea Visa
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an official electronic entry permit for citizens of visa-free countries visiting South Korea for:
- Tourism
- Family visits
- Business meetings
- Short-term events or cultural exchange
Since 2021, most travelers entering without a traditional South Korea visa are required to obtain a K-ETA in advance.
So what’s the difference between the two? Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you avoid confusion:
| Feature | Korea Visa | K-ETA |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Long-term stay, work, study | Short-term tourism, business, family visit |
| Duration | Over 90 days | Up to 90 days |
| Application Time | Several weeks or more | Usually 1–3 business days |
| Cost | Varies by visa type and country | KRW 10,000 (Approx. $8 USD) |
| Where to Apply | Korean embassy or consulate | K-ETA official website |
| Valid For | Single or multiple entries (varies) | 3 years from approval date |
This chart makes it clear that while the K-ETA is a convenient option for short visits, it does not replace a traditional South Korea visa for longer stays such as work, study, or relocation.
Who Needs a South Korea Visa or K-ETA in 2025?
Travelers from countries under Korea’s visa waiver agreement usually need a K-ETA instead of a visa, unless exempt. If you’re aged 18–65 and planning a short visit, the K-ETA is typically sufficient.
👉 Check if your country requires a visa or K-ETA: K-ETA Eligibility List
K-ETA Exemption Countries for South Korea Visa (Until Dec 31, 2025)
To boost tourism, South Korea has extended the K-ETA exemption for travelers from 22 countries until December 31, 2025.
This includes the U.S., Canada, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Australia, New Zealand and more.
Note: Exempt travelers can still apply for K-ETA to skip filling out arrival cards.
💬 Read the full announcement here
How to Apply for a K-ETA: South Korea Visa-Free Entry Process
- Visit the official K-ETA website
- Select your language and click Apply for K-ETA
- Fill in your passport details and purpose of visit
- Upload a valid photo
- Pay ₩10,000 KRW (Approx. $8 USD)
- Wait for approval via email (usually 24–72 hours)
🚨 Group applications are available for up to 30 people.
What Happens If You Don’t Apply for a K-ETA or South Korea Visa?
- You may be denied boarding or entry to South Korea
- Even visa-waiver countries require K-ETA unless exempt
- A K-ETA does not replace a South Korea visa for long-term stays like work or study
🚨 Final entry decisions are made by Korean immigration officers.
Common Questions About South Korea Visa and K-ETA (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply for a K-ETA after I arrive in Korea?
A: No. You must apply and be approved before you depart.
Q: Do children need a K-ETA?
A: Travelers under 18 or over 65 are usually exempt, but confirm based on your nationality.
Q: I already visited Korea last year. Do I need to apply again?
A: Only if your K-ETA has expired or your passport has changed.
Related Posts
- Top 5 Korea Travel Apps for Short-Term Visitors in 2025
- Top 5 Korea Travel Apps for Long-Term Visitors in 2025
- Climate Card: Your Unlimited Public Transport Pass in Seoul for 1 Month
💬 Still unsure about your K-ETA? Ask in the comments or visit the official K-ETA FAQ page.