Can I enter Korea without a K-ETA?

Only if your passport is on the temporary exemption list, which runs through December 31, 2026. Other visa-free travelers must get a K-ETA before boarding. The list has grown since 2023, so check your country on the official K-ETA site.

• △If your passport is visa-exempt but not on the exemption list, you must obtain a K-ETA before boarding a plane or ship.
• ✓Korea extended the temporary K-ETA exemption through December 31, 2026 (VisitKorea, December 26, 2025). The eligible countries and regions are listed on the official K-ETA website.
• △The list differs by source and date: VisitKorea’s visa page still shows only 22 countries and regions, while later notices cover dozens more, so always check the K-ETA site for your passport.
• •A K-ETA is valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple entries.
• •K-ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry; the immigration officer makes the final decision.
• •Exempt travelers still complete the free online e-Arrival card.

• •Your passport country checked against the exemption list
• •A K-ETA approved before boarding if you are not exempt

• •Assuming an exemption still applies to trips after December 31, 2026

• 🛂Can I enter Korea without a visa?Many nationalities can enter visa-free for a limited stay, but it depends on your passport and the reason for travel. Check your country, then check whether K-ETA or the e-Arrival card applies.?IT DEPENDSEntry & ImmigrationView answer →
• 🛂Can I complete the e-Arrival Card before my flight?Yes. You can submit the free online e-Arrival card up to three days before you enter Korea, based on Korean time. It becomes invalid if you do not arrive within 72 hours of submitting it.✓YES, WITH CONDITIONSEntry & ImmigrationView answer →
• 🛂Can I enter Korea if my passport expires soon?You can enter Korea if your passport is valid for the whole time you will stay. But a six-month rule may still apply depending on your nationality, the type of visa and the country you depart from, so check before you go.?IT DEPENDSEntry & ImmigrationView answer →

• VisitKorea: Visa & Travel Requirements
• K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
• VisitKorea: K-ETA Exemption Period Extended Until 2026

The exemption list has been expanded and can change. Check the K-ETA site for your passport and travel date.