The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is a mandatory online approval for visa-free travelers visiting South Korea for tourism, business, or short stays. Once you’ve applied, it's important to track your application status to ensure you receive approval before your departure. This helps avoid last-minute surprises or denied boarding at the airport. Checking your K-ETA status online is quick and easy through the official K-ETA website.

Why Check Your K-ETA Status?

Checking your K-ETA status ensures:

• Your application was successfully submitted.
• You receive timely updates or approval notifications.
• You know if additional documents or corrections are required.
• You can download your authorization before your trip.

Where to Check K-ETA Status Online

You can check your K-ETA application status on the official K-ETA website. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official K-ETA Website: Go to the official K-ETA portal
2. Select “Check Application Status”: From the homepage, click on the “Check Application Status” or “Check K-ETA Result” option. This is usually located in the main menu or quick-access section.
3. Enter Your Details: You will need the following information: Passport number, Date of birth, Application number (if available, though not always required) and an email address used during the application process Make sure the details match exactly what you entered during your application.
4. View Your Status: After submitting the information, your K-ETA status will be displayed.

Possible K-ETA Status Results

When checking your K-ETA status, you may see one of the following results:

• Submitted/In Progress – Your application is under review.
• Approved – Your K-ETA has been granted and you can download it.
• Rejected – Your application was denied (you’ll need to apply for a visa instead).
• Incomplete/Correction Required – Some data may need to be corrected or completed.
• Expired – Your K-ETA has expired, and you must submit a new application.

What to Do Once the K-ETA is Approved

Once your K-ETA is approved, download the confirmation and save both a digital and printed copy for convenience. Carefully check that all your personal details on the approval are accurate to avoid any issues at immigration. Be sure to carry the K-ETA confirmation along with your travel documents when departing for Korea, as border officials may request to see it upon arrival.

⏱️ How Long Does Approval of K-ETA Take?

K-ETA approval usually takes up to 1-6 Working Days from the time of application. However, processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances. In some cases, approvals may be granted within a few hours, while others may experience delays due to verification or additional checks. It's crucial to apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute issues. The government strongly recommends submitting your application at least 72 hours before departure. This allows ample time for any corrections or follow-up if needed. Waiting until the last moment can increase the risk of missing your flight if the authorization isn’t approved in time. To stay on the safe side, it’s best to apply as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.

What If You Can’t Find Your K-ETA Status?

If you’re having trouble finding your K-ETA status:

• Double-check your input details.
• Try again later, as the site may be under maintenance.
• Contact K-ETA support through the official website if needed

What to Do If Your K-ETA Is Delayed or Rejected

If your K-ETA is delayed or rejected, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to resolve the issue. Below are the key actions travelers can take to manage delays or denials effectively:

• Double-check your application details – Ensure your passport number, name, and email address were entered correctly.
• Wait at least 72 hours – Some applications take longer due to high volume or additional screening.
• Monitor your status regularly – Check the official K-ETA website for updates.
• If delayed beyond 1-6 Working Days – Your application may be under further review; continue monitoring.
• If rejected – Review the reason given carefully to understand the cause.
• Apply for a visa – If ineligible for K-ETA, visit the nearest embassy or consulate to apply for a visa.
• Submit a new K-ETA – If the rejection was due to incorrect information, you may reapply with accurate details.
• Contact K-ETA support – Reach out via the official site for clarification or help with your application.

Final Tips for a Smooth Journey to South Korea

Before wrapping up your travel preparations, it's essential to keep a few final K-ETA tips in mind to ensure a smooth journey. These small steps can prevent unexpected issues at the airport or border control.

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. A valid passport is a key requirement for K-ETA approval and entry into Korea.
• Use the same passport when checking status and traveling. Your K-ETA is linked to the passport you used during the application.
• If your passport changes, you must apply for a new K-ETA. Even if the previous K-ETA is still valid, it cannot be transferred to a new passport.
• Always check your K-ETA validity before booking return trips to Korea. Ensure your K-ETA will still be valid for re-entry before planning multiple visits.
• Keep both digital and printed copies of your K-ETA confirmation. Having both versions makes it easier to present your authorization if requested.
• Apply early to avoid last-minute issues. Submitting your application in advance gives you time to resolve any delays or rejections.
• Check your email regularly for updates. All status updates, confirmations, or additional requests are sent to the email you used during the application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What information do I need to check my K-ETA status? I haven’t received any email—how else can I check for a Korean ETA status? What does it mean if my status says “under review”? What if my K-ETA application is delayed past 3 days? Can I download my approval of K-ETA from the website? Do I need to show the K-ETA approval when traveling?

 

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.