As South Korea continues to streamline its immigration process, the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) stands out as a vital entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers, including Australian citizens. Whether you're planning a vacation, business visit, or a short-term family trip, this guide will walk you through everything Australians need to know about the K-ETA.

What Is the K-ETA for Australian Citizens?

The K-ETA, or Korea Electronic Travel Authorization, is an electronic travel authorization introduced by the government. It serves as a pre-screening system for visa-exempt foreign visitors, allowing authorities to assess a traveler's eligibility before their arrival. Its primary goals are to enhance national security, prevent illegal immigration, and streamline the entry process at immigration checkpoints.

It's crucial to understand that the K-ETA is not a visa. It is a mandatory requirement for citizens of eligible countries who are otherwise permitted visa-free entry for short-term purposes such as tourism, business meetings, visiting relatives, or attending events.

K-ETA Eligibility for Australian Citizens

Australian passport holders are eligible for the K-ETA, allowing them to enter South Korea for tourism, business, or family visits. Here are the key details:

• Visa Requirement: Australians do not need a traditional visa but must apply for K-ETA.
• Validity Period: The K-ETA is valid for 3 years from the date of approval.
• Allowed Stay Duration: Australian travelers can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days per visit.
• Reapplication Requirement: If a passport expires before the K-ETA validity period ends, travelers must reapply.

K-ETA Application Process for Australians

Here are simple steps in application of the K-ETA from Australia:

• Access the Official Website: Visit the official K-ETA website.
• Fill Out the Application Form: Enter personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
• Upload Documents: Upload required documents including a valid Australian passport and a recent digital passport-sized photo.
• Pay the Processing Fee: Payment must be made via international debit or credit card.
• Wait for Approval: Processing usually takes a few business days.

Australian Citizens Receiving K-ETA Approval

After submission, your K-ETA status and approval notice will be sent to the email you provided, usually within 1-6 Working Days. Be sure to print or save a digital copy of the confirmation, as you may be asked to show it during airline check-in and immigration screening upon arrival in South Korea. It's also helpful to double-check that your K-ETA is still valid before traveling.

When to Apply for a K-ETA as an Australian Citizen

It is recommended that Australian travelers apply at least 72 hours before departure to ensure enough time for processing. However, during peak seasons, applying a week in advance is advised.

K-ETA Required Documents for Citizens of Australia

Before applying for the Korean ETA (K-ETA), Australian travelers should ensure they have all the necessary documents ready. Below are the key items required, along with brief explanations for each:

• A valid Australian passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to enter South Korea, as this is essential for successful application and travel.
• A recent passport-style photo: A clear, color photo taken recently is required for identity verification during the online application.
• A valid email address: Approval status and updates will be sent to this email, so it should be active and checked regularly.
• Travel details (address in Korea, purpose of visit): You’ll need to provide information such as your intended accommodation and reason for visiting, which helps Korean authorities assess your eligibility.
• Credit/debit card for payment: The K-ETA application fee must be paid online, and international debit or credit cards are accepted.

K-ETA Processing Fee for Citizens of Australia

Australian citizens are required to pay a processing fee when submitting their K-ETA application. This fee covers the evaluation of your application, regardless of the outcome. You can check the current fee on the official K-ETA website using their fee inquiry tool.

K-ETA Validity and Duration of Stay for Australian Passport Holders

The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) issued to Australian passport holders is typically valid for up to three years from the date of approval, unless the associated passport expires sooner—in which case, the K-ETA becomes invalid upon passport expiration. Within this validity period, travelers can make multiple short-term visits to South Korea without needing to reapply each time. For each entry, Australians are generally allowed to stay in South Korea for up to 90 days, making the K-ETA a convenient option for frequent travelers or those planning extended itineraries that involve multiple trips.

Multiple Entry with One K-ETA for Aussies

Australians can use a single approved K-ETA to enter South Korea multiple times during its validity period, as long as their passport remains valid. This is especially convenient for **frequent flyers—whether for tourism, business meetings, or visiting relatives—**as it eliminates the need to reapply before every trip. Just ensure that each visit complies with the maximum allowed stay duration of 90 days per entry.

If Your K-ETA Is Rejected from Australia

If your K-ETA is denied:

• Review the reason provided in the email.
• Reapply with corrected or updated information.
• If rejection persists, you may need to apply for a traditional visa through the Embassy or Consulate in Australia

K-ETA Temporary Exemption for Australian Passport Holders

Australian citizens are currently temporarily exempt from the K-ETA requirement for short-term visits to South Korea until December 31, 2025. This exemption was extended as part of the "Visit Korea Year" initiative, making travel to South Korea even more accessible for Australians.

What does this mean for Australian travellers? If you are an Australian citizen planning a trip to South Korea for tourism, business meetings (non-profitable activities), visiting family, or attending events, you do not currently need to apply for a K-ETA before your departure, provided your visit is for a short-term period (typically up to 90 days).

Important Note for K-ETA holders: If you already obtained a K-ETA before this exemption was announced or extended, your approved K-ETA remains valid until its original expiration date. Travelers with a valid K-ETA are also exempt from submitting an arrival card at the port of entry, a convenience that those relying solely on the temporary exemption would not have.

South Korean e-Arrival Card Requirement (Important until December 31, 2025)

During the current temporary exemption for Australian citizens (until December 31, 2025), you will still need to complete an arrival card upon entry to South Korea. While the K-ETA exempts travelers from this, those relying on the temporary exemption will still need to fill out this physical card or, if available, use the e-Arrival Card system (which is generally mandatory for all foreign nationals from February 24, 2025, but K-ETA holders are exempt).

Who is Generally Exempt from K-ETA Even When Not Under Temporary Exemption?

Even when the temporary exemption is not in effect, certain categories of travelers are generally exempt from needing a K-ETA:

• Holders of valid Korean visas.
• Registered foreign residents in Korea (holders of a Residence Card).
• Travelers in transit through South Korea who remain within the airport transit area and do not pass through immigration.
• Holders of valid APEC Business Travel Cards (ABTC).
• Diplomatic and official passport holders traveling for official purposes.

Travel Tips for Australians Visiting South Korea

Planning ahead can enhance your trip and help you navigate Korean culture with ease. Here are a few practical tips to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

• Currency: Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Transport: Use a T-Money card for public transportation.
• Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering homes; bow when greeting.
• Language: Basic English is understood in urban areas, but learning a few Korean phrases is helpful.

Final Reminders for K-ETA Applicants

Here are some of the things to keep in mind while applying for a K-ETA:

• K-ETA is not a visa but a pre-entry authorization.
• It does not guarantee entry—final decisions rest with Korean immigration officers.
• Always check that your passport is valid and matches the K-ETA information.
• If your purpose of travel changes (e.g., study or work), you’ll need the appropriate visa instead.

FAQs

Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days with a K-ETA? Is a K-ETA fee refundable if my trip is canceled? Can I apply for a K-ETA on arrival? Can I update my travel details after receiving the K-ETA? What should I do if I lose access to my K-ETA approval email?

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.