Travelers to South Korea must obtain either a visa or an electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) in advance, depending on their nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay. Even for tourism or short-term business trips, entry without completing the required procedures in advance is generally not permitted. Because the requirements vary depending on individual circumstances, it is important to confirm which procedure applies to you at the planning stage of your trip.
Visas vs. Electronic Travel Authorization
Whether a visa or an electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) is right for your trip to South Korea depends mainly on the following factors:
- Whether you are traveling for tourism or short-term business, or for work, study, or a long-term stay
- How long you plan to stay
- Whether your nationality is eligible for K-ETA (visa-free entry)
Visas
South Korea offers a range of visas depending on the purpose of travel, including work, study, family stays, and long-term residence. Application requirements, supporting documents, processing times, and permitted lengths of stay vary significantly by visa type.
The Electronic Travel Authorization: K-ETA
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is a program for travelers from certain countries and regions visiting South Korea for short stays for purposes such as tourism or short-term business. K-ETA is a pre-travel authorization; once approved, it is electronically linked to your passport information. Applications are submitted through the official website operated by the Korean government.
About Korean Visas
South Korea issues many types of visas, with different requirements depending on the purpose of travel and conditions of stay. Below is an overview of the most common visa types.
Tourist Visa (C-3)
This visa is used for tourism, vacations, visiting relatives and friends, and other short-term non-work activities. Stays are typically permitted for up to about 90 days, and employment is generally not allowed.
Student Visa (D-2)
This visa is for full-time study at accredited Korean universities and graduate schools. Limited employment may be permitted under certain conditions.
Business Visa (C-2)
This visa is used for short-term, unpaid business activities such as negotiations, attending meetings, market research, and visiting business partners.
Work Visa (E-7)
This visa is for employment with Korean companies or organizations in positions requiring specialized knowledge or skills. Application requirements are defined for each employer and occupation type.
Important Notes on Korean Visas
The Korean visa system is highly segmented, and visas with similar names may carry different statuses and conditions. The rules are revised from time to time, so always check the latest official information before applying. Regardless of which visa or K-ETA you hold, the final decision on entry is made at immigration by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea and the immigration authorities.
About K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a pre-travel authorization program for travelers from certain countries and regions visiting South Korea. While K-ETA is not a visa, it is required when traveling visa-free for purposes such as tourism or short-term business.
What K-ETA Does and Does Not Allow
The main purposes of travel permitted under K-ETA are tourism, vacations, visiting friends and family, and short-term business activities (such as attending meetings, negotiations, and site visits, provided no remuneration is involved).
The following activities are not permitted under K-ETA:
- Employment in South Korea (whether paid or unpaid)
- Long-term study or degree programs
- Internships or training programs that are considered employment
- Paid entertainment or athletic performances
- Travel for the purpose of permanent or long-term residence
- Long-term stays for medical treatment
Applying for K-ETA: Validity and Key Points
K-ETA applications are submitted through the official website operated by the Korean government. K-ETA is valid for a set period, during which multiple short visits may be permitted; however, each stay is generally limited to a maximum of 90 days.
An approved K-ETA does not guarantee entry into South Korea. The final decision is made upon arrival by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea and the immigration authorities.
