Korea Visa Guide 2026: K-ETA, Visa-Free Entry & Requirements

Planning a trip to Korea? Good news: most travelers don't need a visa. With K-ETA exemptions extended through December 2026 and visa-free entry for 67+ countries, getting into Korea has never been easier. Here's exactly what you need to enter.

Do You Need a Visa for Korea?

For most tourists, the answer is no. Korea offers visa-free entry to citizens of 67 countries for stays of 30-90 days. If you're from the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, or most developed nations, you can enter Korea without a visa.

The big change in 2024-2026: K-ETA is currently suspended for citizens of 67 visa-free countries. This exemption runs through December 31, 2026, meaning you don't need to apply for K-ETA before your trip. Just show up with your passport.

What is K-ETA? (And Do You Need It?)

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online travel permit that normally required for visa-free travelers. Think of it like the US ESTA or EU ETIAS. However, K-ETA requirements are currently suspended until December 31, 2026 for most countries.

When K-ETA resumes after 2026, you'll need to apply at least 72 hours before departure. For now, just bring your passport.

e-Arrival Card: The New 2026 Requirement

Starting January 2026, all travelers must complete an e-Arrival Card before entering Korea. This replaces the paper arrival card you used to fill out on the plane. It's free and takes about 5 minutes.

• When: Complete within 72 hours before arrival
• Cost: Free
• Website: arrivalcard.go.kr or Q-CODE app
• Required Info: Passport details, flight info, Korea address

Visa-Free Entry: How Long Can You Stay?

Your visa-free stay length depends on your nationality. Most Western countries get 90 days, while some Asian countries get 30 days. Here's the breakdown:

Can't find your country? Check the Korean Immigration website at immigration.go.kr for the complete list. Some nationalities still require a visa regardless of stay length.

Jeju Island: Special Visa Waiver

Jeju Island has its own visa waiver program. Even if your country isn't on Korea's visa-free list, you may be able to visit Jeju without a visa for up to 30 days. This includes travelers from China who fly directly to Jeju.

• Duration: Up to 30 days
• Restriction: Must stay on Jeju Island only
• Direct Flight: Must fly directly to Jeju (not via Seoul)
• Return Ticket: Must have confirmed departure flight

Korea Entry Requirements Checklist

Here's everything you need to enter Korea in 2026. Print this list or screenshot it before your trip:

1. 1Valid Passport: At least 6 months validity remaining
2. 2Return/Onward Ticket: Proof you'll leave Korea
3. 3e-Arrival Card: Complete at arrivalcard.go.kr (free)
4. 4Accommodation Address: Hotel or Airbnb address in Korea
5. 5COVID Requirements: None as of 2026 (all restrictions lifted)

That's it. No visa application, no K-ETA, no quarantine. Just pack your bags and go.

Quick Tips for Smooth Entry

1. 1Complete your e-Arrival Card before boarding your flight
2. 2Have your Korea address ready (hotel booking confirmation works)
3. 3Keep your return ticket accessible on your phone
4. 4Arrive with some Korean Won or get a WOWPASS at the airport
5. 5Download KakaoMap or Naver Map before landing—Google Maps doesn't work well in Korea

Frequently Asked Questions

Korea has made entry incredibly simple for tourists. With K-ETA suspended, no COVID requirements, and visa-free access for most nationalities, there's never been a better time to visit. Complete your e-Arrival Card, pack your passport, and get ready to explore!