Before you book your flight to Korea, it’s worth sorting out entry paperwork — it’s simpler than it sounds, but the rules have shifted recently and it’s easy to find outdated information online. Here’s where things actually stand for 2026.
Do You Need a Visa?
Most tourists don’t. Citizens of many countries — including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and most of Europe — can enter Korea visa-free for short-term tourism, typically up to 90 days (this varies somewhat by nationality, so check your specific country’s allowance). A visa is only required if you’re staying longer, working, studying, or doing something beyond tourism.
K-ETA: What It Is and the Current Exception
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is normally required for visa-free travelers before boarding a flight to Korea. However, as of 2026, K-ETA has been temporarily waived through December 31, 2026 (Korea Standard Time) for passport holders from 22 visa-waiver countries and regions, including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, the UK, and several European countries. Not every visa-free nationality is covered by this exemption, so double-check your own country’s status before you fly — don’t assume you’re exempt just because you don’t need a visa.
If K-ETA does apply to you, it costs 10,000 KRW (plus a small processing fee), is non-refundable, and once approved is generally valid for up to 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
The e-Arrival Card
Whether or not K-ETA applies to you, Korea also has a separate e-Arrival Card you can submit online, starting 3 days before your arrival. It’s free, and each submission is valid for a single entry, expiring 72 hours after you submit it. If you fill this out online in advance, you don’t need to fill out a paper arrival card at the airport — one less thing to deal with after a long flight.
What to Actually Have Ready
- A passport valid for your entire stay
- Your K-ETA approval (if your nationality requires it and the current exemption doesn’t apply to you) or a completed e-Arrival Card
- Consistent travel details — your flight info, accommodation address, and what you tell the immigration officer should all match
- A proper visa arranged in advance if you’re staying beyond the visa-free period, working, or studying
One Important Caveat
Entry requirements and exemption periods do change, and the K-ETA waiver above has a hard end date. Always check the official K-ETA website or your nearest Korean embassy/consulate for your specific nationality before you travel — don’t rely on blog posts (including this one) for the final word close to your departure date.
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