South Korea Extends K-ETA Exemption for 67 Countries Until 2025

Dreaming of a trip to South Korea? Here’s some fantastic news! The South Korean government has extended its temporary exemption from the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) for travellers from 67 visa-exempt countries until December 31, 2025.

This means you can skip the K-ETA application process and enjoy a smoother visa-free entry into the Land of Morning Calm!

Notably, this extension, initially set to expire at the end of 2024, aligns with the government’s efforts to stimulate the tourism industry during the “Visit Korea Year (2023–2024)” campaign.

What Is the K-ETA?

The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), launched in September 2021, is a mandatory electronic travel permit for travellers from 112 short-stay visa-exempt countries. It enables South Korean authorities to pre-screen visitors, ensuring smoother border security and an improved travel experience.

• The K-ETA fee is KRW 10,000 (approximately €7 or $7).
• It is valid for three years and allows multiple entries for tourism or business.
• As of April 2023, travellers from 67 eligible countries can enjoy visa-free entry without applying for a K-ETA.
• This exemption will remain in effect until December 31, 2025.

Benefits of the K-ETA

While the exemption allows travellers to enter without a K-ETA, obtaining the authorization provides additional conveniences, such as:

• Skipping the arrival card requirement at immigration.
• Ensuring faster entry processing.

Travellers with an approved K-ETA can use it until its expiration. However, the application fees are non-refundable, even if the exemption is extended.

Who Benefits from the Extension?

Citizens of 67 countries and territories, including popular tourist destinations like the United States, Canada, most European nations, and several Asian countries, can now enter South Korea without applying for K-ETA.

What if I Already Applied for K-ETA?

Don’t worry! If you recently obtained a K-ETA, you can still use it until it expires. However, the application fee is non-refundable.

Countries Eligible for the K-ETA Exemption

Citizens from the following 67 countries and territories can enter South Korea without needing a K-ETA:

Key Points for Travellers

1. Length of Stay: The permitted duration varies by nationality.
   • 90 days: For European and American travellers.
   • 6 months: For Canadian travellers.
2. Exemptions by Age: Since July 2023, travellers aged 17 and under or 65 and over have been exempt from K-ETA requirements.
3. The K-ETA exemption doesn’t affect the permitted length of stay in South Korea, which varies by nationality (typically 90 days for Europeans and Americans).
4. Travellers who still wish to enjoy benefits like skipping the arrival card can apply for a K-ETA (approx. €7 / $7).

Why This Matters

The extended exemption reflects South Korea’s commitment to making travel more accessible, particularly for tourists from eligible nations. By reducing entry formalities, the country aims to attract more visitors and revitalize its tourism sector post-pandemic.

Planning Your Visit

With this exemption in place, travellers are encouraged to explore South Korea’s vibrant cities, rich culture, and scenic landscapes. For those opting to apply for the K-ETA, visit the official website at www.k-eta.go.kr to learn more about the application process and benefits.