Get ready for smoother travels to the Land of the Morning Calm! South Korea is embracing digital innovation with the introduction of a new electronic arrival card (e-Arrival Card) system, set to revolutionize the entry process for international visitors.
Starting February 24, 2025, travellers can complete this mandatory form online, paving the way for a more efficient and hassle-free arrival experience.
The initiative follows similar digital entry procedures already implemented in Cambodia, Malaysia, and soon Thailand. The new e-Arrival Card aims to streamline the entry process, making it more efficient for both travellers and immigration authorities.
What is the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is a digital replacement for paper arrival forms, collecting travel dates, flight details, and accommodation info. It streamlines immigration, reduces processing time, and minimizes delays, ensuring a smoother entry process for travellers.
Transition Period Until December 2025
According to the Korean Immigration Service, the implementation will begin with a transition phase. Travellers will have the option to choose between a paper or electronic arrival card until December 2025. However, from January 2026, only the online pre-arrival option will be available.
Who Needs to Complete the e-Arrival Card?
Almost all international visitors to South Korea will be required to complete the e-Arrival Card. The process is free of charge and must be completed within three days before arrival.
Exemptions from the e-Arrival Card Requirement
Certain travellers are exempt from completing the e-Arrival Card. These include:
- Airline crew members
- Holders of a valid K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Registered residents of South Korea (including Permanent Resident Card and Overseas Korean Resident Card holders)
Also Read: South Korea Extends K-ETA Exemption for 67 Countries Until 2025
How to Complete the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card will be accessible via the official website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr), currently under development. Travellers will need to follow these steps:
1. Accept the Terms and Conditions
- Travellers must agree to the platform’s terms before proceeding.
- For minors under 14, a family member or guardian must submit the form on their behalf.
2. Upload a Copy of Your Passport
- Travellers must upload a photo or scanned copy of the passport’s data page.
- The system will automatically extract personal details using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology.
3. Enter Travel Details
- Arrival date and flight/ship details
- Planned departure date and flight number
- Purpose of stay in South Korea
- Local accommodation address and contact details
4. Submit the Declaration
- Once all details are filled in, click “Submit.”
- Travellers can download the e-Arrival Card in PDF format or take a screenshot.
- A confirmation email will be sent to the provided email address.
If travellers need to make changes after submission, they can edit their details on the website before passing through entry control.
Final Thoughts
With this digital transition, South Korea is enhancing its border control efficiency while ensuring a smoother arrival process for international visitors. Travellers should stay updated on the latest guidelines and ensure they complete the e-Arrival Card before their trip to avoid entry delays.
For more details, visit the official e-Arrival Card website (once live) or check with South Korean immigration authorities before travelling.
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