South Korea has extended its K-ETA exemption for 67 countries until December 31, 2025. This move aims to boost tourism by simplifying travel requirements.
Citizens of eligible countries can travel to South Korea without applying for a K-ETA until the end of 2025. However, they can still apply for a K-ETA to enjoy benefits like skipping the entry declaration form at immigration.
The K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization that enables South Korean authorities to assess visitors before their arrival, ensuring security and facilitating processing at points of entry.
Eligible Countries:
The 67 countries exempt from the K-ETA requirement include:
• Africa: South Africa
• Americas: Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, United States
• Asia: Bahrain, Brunei, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Macau, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, UAE
• Europe: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Vatican
• Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu
The K-ETA exemption period has been extended until December 31, 2025, as part of the “Visit Korea Year (2023~2024)” campaign to revitalize the tourism industry.
The K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization) is an electronic travel authorization system implemented by the Korean government to enhance security and facilitate the entry process for foreign visitors.
Purpose of K-ETA:
The primary purpose of the K-ETA is to:
1. Streamline the entry process: By submitting required information and receiving approval prior to arrival, travelers can skip the entry declaration form at immigration and proceed directly to the immigration counter.
2. Enhance security: The K-ETA system allows Korean authorities to assess visitors before their arrival, reducing potential security risks.
3. Improve tourism experience: By providing a smoother and more efficient entry process, the K-ETA aims to enhance the overall tourism experience in Korea.
Eligibility and Requirements:
1. Eligible countries: Citizens of 112 countries, including the US, Canada, and EU member states, are eligible to apply for a K-ETA.
2. Required documents: A valid passport, email address, and credit card (for payment) are required to apply.
3. Application process: Apply online through the official K-ETA website or through a mobile app.
4. Fees: A processing fee of KRW 10,000 (approximately USD 8) is applicable.
Benefits:
1. Convenience: Apply online and receive approval prior to arrival.
2. Time-saving: Skip the entry declaration form at immigration and proceed directly to the immigration counter.
3. Security: Enhanced security measures to ensure a safe and secure travel experience.
Validity:
The K-ETA is valid for:
1. Multiple entries: Valid for multiple entries within the specified period.
2. 90-day stay: Allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
3. 2-year validity: Valid for 2 years from the date of approval.