Complete Guide to South Korea Travel: Visa Requirements and Application Methods for 2025

Do You Need a Visa for Your Trip to South Korea? (As of 2025)

Are you planning a trip to South Korea? As of 2025, whether you need a visa for entry into the Republic of Korea depends on your nationality, purpose of stay, and duration of stay. While citizens of many countries can enter for short-term tourism purposes without a visa (visa-free entry), the key question is whether they still need to obtain a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). We’ve compiled the latest, reliable information to help you prepare for your Korean journey.

Understanding Visa-Free Entry and K-ETA

South Korea has established Visa Waiver Agreements with numerous countries worldwide, allowing citizens of those nations to enter without a physical visa for short-term stays (typically 30, 60, or 90 days) for purposes like tourism or simple visits.

However, since September 1, 2021, South Korea introduced the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) system, which mandates that nationals of visa-waiver countries must obtain online travel authorization before entering the country. This system aims to enhance traveler convenience while streamlining the immigration process.

Temporary K-ETA Exemption Extended (2025 Update)

Important 2025 Information Update: The Korean government has extended the temporary K-ETA exemption measure, originally implemented to boost the tourism industry, until December 31, 2025. During this period, nationals of specific exempt countries and regions are temporarily relieved of the obligation to apply for K-ETA.

Temporary K-ETA Exempt Countries/Regions (2025): The list includes major countries such as the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Taiwan, Denmark, Germany, Macau, the United States (including Guam), Belgium, Sweden, Spain, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Austria, Italy, Japan, Canada, Poland, France, Finland, Australia, and Hong Kong, among others.
Exemption Period: January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025 (Korean Time).
Note: Even citizens of exempt countries can voluntarily apply for K-ETA if they wish to receive benefits such as exemption from filling out the arrival card upon entry into Korea, though a fee will be charged.

Always Check Before You Go! You must verify whether your nationality is included in the K-ETA exemption list and check the latest information on the official K-ETA website. In 2025, preparing for your K-ETA or visa remains the most fundamental step in planning your trip to Korea.

K-ETA Website

K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) Application Method and Process

K-ETA is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa. It is mandatory for nationals of visa-exempt countries who are not eligible for the 2025 temporary exemption.

Who Needs to Apply for K-ETA?

Nationals of countries that have a visa-waiver agreement with the Republic of Korea or are permitted visa-free entry, intending to enter for short-term stays (excluding profit-making activities) such as tourism, business, or visiting relatives.
However, certain individuals are exempt, including diplomatic/official passport holders, active-duty USFK personnel subject to SOFA, flight/ship crew members, ABTC cardholders, transit passengers, and those aged 17 or under, or 65 or over (as of the date of entry).

K-ETA Application Procedure and Required Information

K-ETA can be easily applied for online via the official website () or the mobile app.

h4. 7 Steps for K-ETA Application

Agree to Terms and Verify Email
Enter Passport Information: Upload valid passport information and a color facial photograph file.
Enter Application Details: Provide information such as the purpose of travel, address of stay in Korea (e.g., hotel reservation details), and contact information.
Confirm Entered Information
Pay the Fee: KRW 10,000 (approx. $7–8) + processing fees (credit card payment is accepted).
Complete Application
Check Screening Results: Results are usually available via email or on the official website within 72 hours. It is highly recommended to apply at least 72 hours before boarding your flight or ship to Korea.

A granted K-ETA is valid for 3 years and allows multiple entries within that period (or until the passport expires, whichever comes first). With K-ETA approval, you are exempt from completing an arrival card upon entry, allowing for faster immigration processing.

How to Apply for a Short-Term Visit Visa (C-3) for South Korea

If your nationality is not among the visa-exempt countries, or if you are an K-ETA-eligible national but wish to stay for more than 90 days (for non-profit purposes), you must obtain a separate visa (Sajung). Generally, the Short-Term Visit Visa (C-3) is applicable for short-term stays for purposes such as tourism, market research, short-term business, or visiting relatives.

General Principles for C-3 Visa Application

The C-3 visa must typically be applied for through the Korean diplomatic mission (Embassy or Consulate) in your country of residence. The required documents vary depending on the purpose of your application (tourism, business, general visit, etc.), and the processing time may vary according to the mission’s circumstances. As of 2025, many missions require applicants to fill out and submit the visa application form online via the Visa Portal () and then visit the mission with the necessary supporting documents after making a prior appointment.

Essential Documents for Short-Term Tourist Visa (C-3-9) Application (General Standard)

For a short-term tourist visa (C-3-9), the following documents are generally required as a baseline, though additional documents may be requested based on the mission and the applicant’s circumstances (occupation, age, etc.).

h4. Required Documents for Tourist Visa Application

Visa Application Form: Printed after completion on the Visa Portal (including barcode) or use the mission’s standard form.
Passport: Original passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity, plus a photocopy.
Passport Photo: One photo taken within the last 6 months.
Round-trip Flight Ticket Reservation Confirmation and Accommodation Booking Proof
Proof of Financial Capability:
- Bank Balance Certificate (recommended minimum deposit of USD 5,000 equivalent, issued within 1 month of application).
- Bank account transaction statement for the most recent 3 months.
Proof of Employment/Student Status:
- Employed: Certificate of Employment (in English), employment contract, salary slips, etc.
- Business Owner: Copy of Business Registration Certificate, tax payment certificate, etc.
- Student: Certificate of Enrollment (in English), copy of student ID, etc.
Other Personal Documents: Copy of ID card, proof of family relations (if applicable).

Additional Documents for Short-Term Business Visa (C-3-4)

For visits for commercial purposes such as market research, contracts, or consultations (C-3-4), documents from the inviting Korean organization are also required.

Documents from the Inviting Party (Korean Company): Letter of Invitation (detailing the reason and duration of the invitation), copy of Business Registration Certificate, etc.
Documents from the Invited Party (Traveler): Certificate of Employment, business trip order/document, company bank transaction statement, etc.

Important Note: Translation and notarization of documents may be required during the visa review process. It is advisable to prepare all documents based on the most recent information (issued within 3 months). The visa fee is paid upon application and is not refundable, even if the visa is denied or canceled.

Conclusion: Smart Preparation for Your 2025 South Korea Trip

Planning your South Korea trip in 2025 has become simpler for citizens of some countries due to the temporary K-ETA exemption. However, the first step to a successful journey is to clearly confirm your visa requirements based on your nationality and secure a K-ETA or the appropriate tourist visa in advance if necessary. Specifically, if you are not eligible for the K-ETA exemption, remember that K-ETA is a mandatory prerequisite for boarding. Apply via the official website () more than 72 hours in advance to ensure your travel plans proceed smoothly. With accurate information and thorough document preparation, you are ready to embark on a safe and enjoyable trip to Korea.