South Korea offers visa-free entry to travelers from numerous countries, making it easier for tourists, business visitors, and transit passengers to visit without the hassle of obtaining a visa in advance. The visa-free policy is part of South Korea’s effort to promote tourism, strengthen international relations, and enhance global connectivity.
However, the length of stay and specific conditions vary depending on the traveler's nationality. Some countries enjoy extended stays of up to 90 days, while others may be restricted to shorter periods. Additionally, certain travelers must apply for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (KETA) before arrival, even if they qualify for visa-free entry.
Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries and regions can enter South Korea without a visa for short-term stays:
90 Days Visa-Free Stay
Citizens from these countries can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa:
Certain exceptions apply based on diplomatic relations, bilateral agreements, or specific entry purposes:
Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders: Many additional countries have visa-free agreements for diplomatic and official passport holders.
Transit Without Visa (TWOV): Nationals of China, Mongolia, Vietnam, and the Philippines may transit visa-free under specific conditions if they are traveling to the U.S., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand with a confirmed onward ticket.
Jeju Island Visa-Free Entry: Travelers from most countries (except Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, and a few others) can visit Jeju Island visa-free for up to 30 days.
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
While visa-free travelers do not need a traditional visa, they may need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before departure. K-ETA is required for citizens of visa-free countries, except for specific exemptions.
How to Apply for K-ETA
The application process is straightforward and involves the following steps:
Visit the Official K-ETA Website: Travelers must apply for an online South Korea eVisa application via the official K-ETA website or mobile app.
Fill Out the Application Form: Personal details, passport information, travel plans, and other relevant data must be provided accurately.
Upload Required Documents: A recent passport-sized photo and a valid passport scan are required.
Pay the Processing Fee: The K-ETA application requires a fee, which varies slightly based on the applicant’s nationality. Payments can be made using credit or debit cards. Once approved, the confirmation is sent via email and must be presented at check-in and upon arrival in South Korea.
Who is Exempt from K-ETA?
Some travelers are exempt from K-ETA, including:
Holders of APEC Business Travel Cards (ABTC)
Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries
Those transiting through Incheon Airport for less than 24 hours without passing through immigration
Visa-Free Travel for Different Purposes
Visa-free travel to South Korea is available for various purposes, but travelers must comply with immigration regulations and restrictions on activities permitted under visa-free entry. Below are the common purposes for which travelers enter South Korea without a visa.
Tourism:Most travelers visiting South Korea for sightseeing, shopping, or cultural experiences can enter visa-free under the conditions outlined above.
Business and Short-Term Work:Visa-free travelers can attend business meetings, conferences, or trade-related activities, but they are not allowed to engage in paid employment.
Family Visits:Individuals visiting family members residing in South Korea can enter under the same visa-free conditions, provided their stay does not exceed the permitted period.
Transit Travelers:Transit travelers who meet eligibility criteria can pass through South Korea without a visa, especially when connecting to a third country.
Requirements for Entering South Korea Visa-Free
Travelers visiting South Korea under a visa-free policy must meet specific entry requirements to ensure a smooth arrival. Below are the essential conditions to keep in mind before your trip.
A valid passport that covers the entire stay (some nationalities may require at least six months of validity).
K-ETA approval if required for your nationality.
A return or onward ticket to prove departure within the permitted stay period.
Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or a host’s address.
Sufficient funds for the stay if requested by immigration officers.
No entry restrictions due to previous visa violations, overstays, or deportations.
Compliance with health and safety regulations, including potential health screenings for infectious diseases.
Steps to Take After Entering South Korea Visa-Free
Once travelers arrive in South Korea under visa-free status, they must complete the following steps:
Immigration Clearance: Present your passport and K-ETA approval (if required) at the immigration counter.
Customs Declaration: Declare any restricted items or valuable goods as required.
Accommodation Registration: Some hotels may require a passport for check-in verification.
Stay Within Permitted Duration: Ensure you do not overstay the allowed period.
Follow Local Laws: Adhere to South Korean regulations, including those related to work, conduct, and visa-free limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most travelers need to complete an arrival card and customs declaration. Some nationalities may be exempt from the arrival card.
It depends on your nationality. Some visa-free travelers must apply for K-ETA before arrival. Check the official K-ETA website for eligibility.
No, visa-free status does not permit employment. Working in South Korea without the proper visa can lead to penalties, including deportation.
Overstaying may result in fines, deportation, or future entry bans. Always leave before your permitted duration expires.
Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.
Report the loss to the local police and contact your embassy to obtain a replacement or emergency travel document.
Re-entry rules depend on your nationality. Some travelers may need to wait a certain period before re-entering visa-free.
Content Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in February 2025, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.