Thai citizens planning to visit South Korea for short-term stays now benefit from the convenient Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) system. This online travel permit streamlines the process for eligible visitors by removing the need to visit an embassy or apply for a traditional visa. Whether you're traveling for tourism, business meetings, or cultural events, this guide covers everything Thai citizens need to know about applying for and using a K-ETA
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is an online entry approval system required for visa-free travelers entering South Korea. It allows eligible nationals, including those from Thailand, to enter South Korea without applying for a visa, as long as the visit is short-term and for permitted purposes that includes:
Tourism and leisure activities |
Exploring cities, historical sites, natural parks, and cultural attractions. |
Visiting family and friends |
Staying with or meeting relatives and friends living in South Korea. |
Attending business meetings, conferences, or trade shows |
Allowed for short-term business purposes. Excludes paid work or commercial transactions. |
Participation in events or cultural activities |
Attending concerts, exhibitions, cultural festivals, or public gatherings. |
Short-term study programs (non-degree) |
Includes language courses or training sessions that don’t lead to a degree. |
Transit through South Korea |
If you’re connecting to another international flight and plan to leave the airport transit area. |
For any purpose other than those listed above (e.g., long-term study, employment, or residency), Thai citizens must apply for a specific visa through an embassy or consulate in Thailand before traveling.
Yes, Thai passport holders are eligible to apply for a K-ETA when visiting South Korea for short-term stays (up to 90 days). Thai citizens must apply online for K-ETA before boarding their flight to Korea.
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is valid for three years from the date it is approved, allowing travelers to enter South Korea multiple times during this period without needing to reapply. However, each individual stay must not exceed 90 days. It's important to note that the same passport used for the K-ETA application must be used for travel, as the authorization is linked to that specific document.
To successfully apply for a K-ETA, Thai citizens will need the following:
Step 1: Visit the Official K-ETA Website
Go to the official website and start your application by filling in your personal and passport details accurately.
Step 2: Upload a Photo and Pay the Fee
Upload a recent passport-style photo and pay the non-refundable application fee using a credit or debit card.
Step 3: Wait for Approval and Download
Approval usually takes a few business days. Once approved, download and save a digital and printed copy of your K-ETA for your trip.
The K-ETA requires an application fee, with additional online payment processing charges that may apply. Payments can be made using a variety of accepted credit and debit cards, including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners Club, DISCOVER, UnionPay, and Alipay. It’s important to note that the K-ETA fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved or rejected.
For Thai citizens applying for a K-ETA to visit South Korea, the standard processing time is usually within 1-6 Working Days, though many receive approval much sooner—sometimes within minutes or a few hours. However, delays can occur due to factors like application errors, high submission volumes, or manual reviews triggered by discrepancies or security checks. Applications submitted outside Korean business hours may also experience delays. To avoid last-minute issues, it's best to apply at least 72 hours before departure and regularly check your email, including your spam folder, for updates.
After applying, Thai applicants can check their application status directly on the K-ETA website by:
When entering Korea with a K-ETA, Thai travelers should carry:
Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in:
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) offers a convenient alternative to traditional visa applications for Thai citizens visiting South Korea. It streamlines entry for short-term visits by eliminating embassy appointments and providing quick online approval. Key Benefits of the K-ETA for Thai Citizens include:
Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), but it is highly recommended for Thai citizens visiting South Korea. Medical treatment in Korea can be expensive for foreigners, and insurance helps protect you from unexpected costs related to illness, accidents, or travel disruptions.
Why You Should Get Travel Insurance:
Here are some final travel tips to help ensure your K-ETA process and entry go smoothly.
For Thai citizens, the K-ETA offers a fast, convenient, and reliable way to visit South Korea without needing a visa for short stays. By following the correct application steps and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations, travelers from Thailand can enjoy a seamless journey to one of Asia’s most exciting destinations. If you're planning a trip to South Korea soon, apply for your K-ETA early, and get ready for a smooth travel experience!
Not if the visit is short-term and for permitted purposes—Thai citizens can apply for the K-ETA instead.
No. The K-ETA does not permit employment. It is valid only for tourism, business meetings, or cultural visits.
What if my passport changes?You must reapply for a new K-ETA using your new passport.
If your K-ETA is delayed or rejected, start by checking your email and the official K-ETA website for updates. Make sure all the information you entered is correct. If there were mistakes, you might need to fix them and reapply. If the issue continues, you may need to apply for a visa through the Embassy.
Only for short-term non-degree programs like language courses. For full-time or long-term studies, a student visa is required.
Yes. Every traveler, including minors, must have their own K-ETA approved before traveling to Korea.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in June 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.