K-ETA: the electronic authorization for traveling to South Korea

The K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization for certain visa-exempt travelers, not to be confused with the arrival declaration. It must be obtained before boarding when required for your nationality, via the official dedicated website.

Who needs to complete this step?

Nationals of countries admitted to South Korea without a visa may be subject to the K-ETA. A temporary exemption nonetheless applies to many nationalities until December 31, 2026, including travelers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada on short tourist stays. This exemption does not change the requirement to submit your electronic arrival declaration before entering the country. Always check your specific situation before departure, as rules can change under bilateral agreements.

Cost and processing time

The official administrative fee is 10,000 KRW, plus possible payment processing fees depending on the method used. The application is made exclusively online, through a form available in English and Korean, paid by card. Processing usually takes less than 72 hours, but longer delays remain possible in case of high demand or additional checks: it is best to apply well ahead rather than in the final days before departure.

Validity and information to prepare

Prepare a valid passport, a recent passport-style photo, your contact details, and the main information about your trip (accommodation address, travel dates). Once approved, the authorization remains valid for up to 2 years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple entries. It must exactly match the passport presented on arrival: a new passport issued after approval requires reapplying.

K-ETA vs. e-Arrival Card: what is the difference?

The K-ETA does not replace a visa. It is also separate from the e-Arrival Card, the digital arrival declaration required for almost all travelers. A traveler with an approved K-ETA generally does not need to submit the e-Arrival Card, except in specific entry circumstances; conversely, a traveler exempt from the K-ETA is still required to complete the arrival declaration within the required timeframe. See our practical information to prepare both steps with confidence.

How does a K-ETA application work?

The application is submitted directly on the official online form, entering passport details, a photo meeting the required format, and trip details. Fees are paid by card at submission, with no paper alternative. Confirmation is sent by email, usually within 72 hours, and should be kept (printed or on your phone) for the duration of your stay, as checks may occur after entry.

K-ETA refused, pending, or expired: what to do

If refused, first check that the submitted details are accurate (name, passport number, dates) before reapplying; a persistent refusal may require applying for a regular visa through the relevant authorities. If a response is delayed close to departure, avoid submitting multiple parallel applications, as this can complicate processing. An expired authorization, or one tied to a passport that is no longer valid, requires starting the whole process again before any new trip.

Getting your file ready before departure

Whether you are subject to the K-ETA or temporarily exempt, the electronic arrival card still needs to be submitted in the days before your arrival. Gathering your passport, your first accommodation's address, and your flight details in advance lets you complete both steps calmly rather than at the last minute.