The K-ETA application process is the easiest and fastest way for eligible travelers to enter South Korea without a visa. If your country is on the visa waiver list, you can skip the paperwork at the consulate and instead apply online for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to apply, which countries are eligible, how much it costs, and what documents you need.
What Is the K-ETA?
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an electronic travel approval system introduced by the South Korean government. It allows travelers from visa-free countries to enter South Korea for tourism, business, short-term study, or transit without a physical visa.
Once approved, your K-ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries within that time.
- Apply online via the official website:
https://www.k-eta.go.kr - Processing time: Usually within 24–72 hours
- Cost: Approximately 10,000 KRW (~$9–10 USD)
Who Needs the K-ETA?
Travelers from over 100 countries that have visa-waiver agreements with South Korea must apply for the K-ETA before boarding a flight.
You must apply for a K-ETA if you:
- Are from a visa-free country
- Are visiting Korea for less than 90 days
- Are traveling for tourism, short-term business, or events
Countries That Need a K-ETA (Visa-Free Entry)
Some of the countries eligible for K-ETA as of 2025 include:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- France
- Australia
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Hong Kong
- Taiwan
Full list of countries:
→ K-ETA Eligible Countries – Korea Immigration Service
Who Doesn’t Need K-ETA or a Visa?
You don’t need a K-ETA if:
- You’re a Korean national or permanent resident
- You have a valid long-term visa (e.g., student or work visa)
- You are transiting through Korea within the same airport zone
Check if your case qualifies:
→ Korea Visa Portal
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for K-ETA
1. Visit the official website
Go to https://www.k-eta.go.kr and click “Apply.”
2. Fill in your personal information
You’ll need to enter:
- Passport details (valid for at least 6 months)
- Travel purpose
- Address in Korea (e.g., hotel reservation)
Tip: You can easily reserve hotels via
Booking.com, Agoda, or Trip.com
3. Upload a passport-style photo
Make sure it’s a clear image, no hats or sunglasses, on a white background.
4. Pay the fee
Around $10 USD, paid via credit card.
5. Wait for approval
Usually within 1–3 days. You’ll get an email, or you can check the status on the same site.
Once approved, your K-ETA will be valid for multiple entries within two years (depending on your nationality)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with a passport that expires soon
- Uploading blurry or incorrect photos
- Entering wrong passport numbers or travel details
- Booking a flight before K-ETA is approved (though it usually comes fast)
How to Check Your K-ETA Status
- Visit the K-ETA website
- Click “Check Application Result”
- Enter your email and application number
If your K-ETA is denied, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa at your local Korean embassy.
Prefer Extra Help? Use iVisa
If you’re not comfortable applying on your own or want extra support, you can use a trusted third-party service like iVisa.
What is iVisa?
iVisa is an online platform that helps travelers apply for eVisas, travel authorizations like K-ETA, passport photos, and even health declarations.
Benefits of using iVisa:
- Step-by-step application assistance
- Support in multiple languages
- Application review before submission
- Email delivery of documents
- 24/7 customer support
Yes, it comes with a small extra fee compared to the official K-ETA site, but it can save you time, errors, and stress.
You can apply for:
- K-ETA application
- Tourist visas to Korea
- Passport photo uploads
- Health declaration forms
- Entry documents for other countries
Check if you’re eligible and apply through iVisa:
Apply for K-ETA with iVisa
You can also visit their main page to explore more services:
Visit iVisa Home Page
Who Needs a Visa or K-ETA?
Depending on your country of passport, the requirements differ. Here’s a quick overview:
| Country | Required Entry Document | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | K-ETA | Visa-free but must apply for K-ETA |
| Canada | K-ETA | Same as above |
| Singapore | K-ETA | Must apply before travel |
| Australia | K-ETA | Required even if visa-exempt |
| Japan | K-ETA | K-ETA required |
| Vietnam | K-ETA or Visa | Depending on passport type |
| Philippines | K-ETA or Visa | Short stays often require a visa |
| China | Visa only | K-ETA not applicable |
Always check the most up-to-date requirements.
You can use iVisa’s eligibility checker to instantly see what you need for Korea.
What to Show at the Airport
When you arrive in South Korea (e.g., at Incheon International Airport), you must present:
- Your passport
- K-ETA approval (printed or digital copy)
- Completed arrival card
Need help navigating Incheon Airport?
→ Incheon Airport Arrival Guide
Do You Still Need Travel Insurance or SIM Cards?
Yes — even though K-ETA is electronic, you’ll still want these essentials:
- Prepaid SIM card for mobile data
→ SIM Cards for Korea - Travel insurance covering COVID-19 & accidents
→ Check with your booking provider or card company
Related Guides for Your Korea Trip
Need a full overview of what to expect at immigration, customs, and getting a taxi from the airport?
→ Korea Visa Process for Foreigners: Entry Guide
Bringing a pet? Don’t miss:
→ Traveling to Korea with a Pet
Final Tips Before You Fly
- Apply at least 3 days before departure
- Double-check your passport number and travel dates
- Screenshot or print your K-ETA confirmation
- Don’t assume you’re exempt — check your country’s status every trip
A Note from Me
When I first started planning this blog, I imagined helping someone just like you — someone preparing for their first (or next) trip to Korea with excitement, a little bit of nervousness, and a big heart.
I know that paperwork, visa rules, and official websites can feel overwhelming. That’s why I share not only what to do, but how it feels to go through it — because I’ve been there too.
So whether you choose to apply directly through the government or get a little help from services like iVisa, I hope this blog makes your journey feel just a bit easier and more connected.
Welcome to Korea, wherever you’re coming from.
You’re going to love it here.
