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If you are travelling on a US, UK, Canadian, Australian or New Zealand passport, you are included in Korea’s temporary K-ETA exemption through 31 December 2026. Those are five of the 22 countries and regions named in the Korean consulate’s 2026 exemption notice.
An arrival card is a separate requirement. For a visitor using this exemption, the next step is usually the free e-Arrival Card. Someone travelling with a valid K-ETA may not need to submit that form either.
This guide covers ordinary visits without a visa. If you are entering on a visa or hold a Korean residence card, use the government’s declaration guide linked below to find the rules for your status.
Find your passport country
The consulate notice lists these countries and regions for the exemption:
| Region | Included in the temporary exemption |
|---|---|
| Americas | United States, including Guam, and Canada |
| Europe | United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Poland, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Belgium, Denmark and Austria |
| Asia | Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Macau |
| Oceania | Australia and New Zealand |
Use the nationality on the passport you will travel with. If it is not listed, that alone does not tell you whether you need a visa or a K-ETA. Start with the official K-ETA website and your Korean consulate’s entry guidance. Age and passport type can also affect the requirement.
The exemption has an end date. For travel after 31 December 2026, look for a new official notice before relying on it.
Work out which form applies
For an ordinary visitor entering without a visa, the distinction is:
| Your situation | Next step |
|---|---|
| Using the temporary K-ETA exemption | Check and complete the e-Arrival Card |
| Already holding a valid K-ETA for this trip | The declaration guide excludes K-ETA holders from the arrival card requirement |
| Required to obtain a K-ETA | Apply before travelling and check that it has been approved |
The immigration service’s declaration guide sets out the exceptions. It also says that a K-ETA holder entering on a visa must complete an arrival card. Use the category that matches how you are entering.
Completing the e-Arrival Card
Use the official e-Arrival Card portal. The form is free. Have your passport, email address, flight details and the address of your accommodation ready.
The portal opens filing three days before arrival, using Korean time. Its filing guide says a submission expires after 72 hours. If your flight changes, review your submitted details and validity before you travel.
Keep the confirmation email where you can find it. The guide says you do not need to bring a printed arrival card, although knowing the issue number can help.
Allow time for a K-ETA decision
If you need a K-ETA, apply when your travel plans are settled rather than leaving it until departure day. The official application page describes assessment as generally within 72 hours. That is a usual processing time, not a guaranteed deadline for approval.
Check the application result before travelling. Submitting the form and receiving approval are separate steps.
Once the paperwork is settled, save your accommodation’s address and plan the journey from Incheon Airport.