Do you need a K-ETA to visit South Korea?

The short answer

The official K-ETA site says the fee is 10,000 won (about USD 7 to 8) and assessment is generally within 72 hours. A temporary exemption from K-ETA for currently exempt countries runs from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026.

Fee and timing

The Ministry of Justice site lists the fee as KRW 10,000, approximately USD 7 to 8 per person. Assessment is generally within 72 hours.

You need a valid passport, a valid email address, an ID photo and a credit or debit card.

Temporary exemption

The Ministry of Justice extended the temporary K-ETA exemption from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026 (KST). It applies to countries and regions currently exempt.

People covered by the exemption can still apply, for example to avoid submitting an arrival card, but the fee is charged and is non-refundable. The pages read do not list which countries are exempt, so check the official site for your passport.

Scams and notices

The site warns that K-ETA applications are available only at k-eta.go.kr or the K-ETA mobile app. It warns about similar agencies and phishing sites that charge high fees.

The site also shows a notice of temporary suspension of K-ETA services on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. Check the official site before you pay or travel.

Stay periods

The official eligible countries list shows allowed stays. Examples: United States 90 days, United Kingdom (British citizen) 90 days, Canada 6 months, Australia 90 days, New Zealand 3 months.

Sources: K-ETA: Welcome page, K-ETA: Notice on extension of temporary exemption, K-ETA: Eligible countries and applicants. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.

Frequently asked questions