South Korea Visa Requirements 2026
Complete guide to South Korea tourist visa, K-ETA, visa-free entry, and application process for US, UK, Canadian, and international travelers
Quick Facts: South Korea Visa Requirements 2026
Understanding South Korea Visa Requirements in 2026
South Korea, known for its dynamic culture, advanced technology, and rich history, offers streamlined visa policies for most travelers. In 2026, South Korea continues to welcome visitors with visa-free entry for many nationalities, though the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) system is now mandatory for visa-free travelers.
Most Western countries (US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, New Zealand) can visit South Korea visa-free for 30-90 days depending on nationality. US, UK, and EU citizens enjoy 90 days visa-free, while others may get 30 days. However, all visa-free travelers must obtain K-ETA online before traveling. K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (approximately $8 USD) and is valid for 2 years with multiple entries.
For nationalities that require a visa, South Korea offers efficient visa processing through embassies and consulates. The visa application process has been modernized in 2026, with improved online services and faster processing times. South Korea is also part of visa waiver programs with many countries, making travel easier.
Types of South Korea Visas Available in 2026
Visa-Free Entry + K-ETA
Available for citizens of 110+ countries including US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, and more. Stay duration varies from 30-90 days. K-ETA required for all visa-free travelers.
- K-ETA: 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD, valid 2 years)
- 30-90 days depending on nationality
- Multiple entries allowed
Tourist Visa (C-3)
For nationalities that require a visa. Valid for single or multiple entries, typically allows stays of 30-90 days per entry.
- Fee: $40-90 USD (varies by nationality)
- 30-90 days per entry
- Single or multiple entries
Transit Visa
For travelers transiting through South Korea. Available for certain nationalities transiting for more than 24 hours or leaving the airport.
- Free for most transit passengers
- 30-day visa-free transit available
- Must have onward ticket
Working Holiday Visa
For young travelers (typically 18-30) from certain countries to work and travel in South Korea. Valid for 1 year.
- Available for specific countries
- Valid for 1 year
- Allows work and travel
South Korea Visa Requirements by Nationality
🇺🇸 US Citizens
US citizens can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. K-ETA is required and must be obtained online before traveling.
- Visa-free: 90 days
- K-ETA required: 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD, valid 2 years)
- Valid passport (6+ months validity) required
- Return or onward ticket required
🇬🇧 UK Citizens
UK citizens enjoy the same visa-free privileges as US citizens. 90 days visa-free entry with K-ETA requirement.
- Visa-free: 90 days
- K-ETA required: 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD, valid 2 years)
- Valid passport required
- Return ticket required
🇨🇦 Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens can visit South Korea visa-free for 90 days. K-ETA required before traveling.
- Visa-free: 90 days
- K-ETA required: 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD, valid 2 years)
- Valid passport required
- Multiple entries allowed
Required Documents for South Korea Visa Application
Essential Documents
- ✓Valid passport (6+ months validity, 1 blank page)
- ✓Completed visa application form or K-ETA form
- ✓Recent passport photo (35mm x 45mm, white background)
- ✓Round-trip flight itinerary
Supporting Documents
- ✓Hotel reservations or accommodation proof
- ✓Bank statements (last 3 months, showing sufficient funds)
- ✓Employment letter or proof of ties to home country
- ✓Travel itinerary (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step South Korea Visa Application Process
Check if You Need a Visa
Determine if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry (with K-ETA) or requires a tourist visa. Most Western countries can visit visa-free for 30-90 days.
Apply for K-ETA (if visa-free)
If you're from a visa-free country, apply for K-ETA online at k-eta.go.kr at least 24 hours before travel. Cost is 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD), valid for 2 years.
Gather Required Documents
Collect passport, photos, application form, flight itinerary, hotel reservations, bank statements, and employment proof.
Complete Application Form
Fill out the South Korea visa application form (if required) or K-ETA form online. Provide accurate personal and travel information.
Submit Application
Submit your K-ETA application online or visa application at the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate in your country.
Pay Fee
Pay K-ETA fee (10,000 KRW) online or visa fee ($40-90 USD) at the embassy. Fees vary by nationality and processing speed.
Wait for Processing
K-ETA processing takes 24-72 hours. Tourist visa processing takes 5-10 business days (standard) or 2-3 days (express).
Receive Approval
Receive K-ETA approval via email or collect visa from embassy. Print K-ETA approval and carry with passport when traveling.
South Korea Visa Fees and Processing Times 2026
| Visa Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) | 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD) | 24-72 hours |
| Tourist Visa (Standard) | $40-90 USD | 5-10 business days |
| Tourist Visa (Express) | $60-120 USD | 2-3 business days |
| Transit Visa (30 days) | Free | Immediate at airport |
| Visa Extension | 30,000 KRW (~$25 USD) | 5-10 business days |
Frequently Asked Questions About South Korea Visa
Do US citizens need a visa for South Korea?
US citizens can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. However, starting in 2021, US citizens must apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) online before traveling. K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (approximately $8 USD) and is valid for 2 years.
What is K-ETA for South Korea?
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a mandatory online authorization for visa-free travelers visiting South Korea. It costs 10,000 KRW (~$8 USD), is valid for 2 years, and allows multiple entries. Processing takes 24-72 hours.
How long can I stay in South Korea without a visa?
Most visa-free nationalities (US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia) can stay in South Korea for 30-90 days depending on nationality. US, UK, and EU citizens get 90 days, while others may get 30 days. K-ETA is required for visa-free travelers.
How much does a South Korea tourist visa cost?
K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (approximately $8 USD) and is valid for 2 years. For nationalities requiring a visa, tourist visa fees range from $40-90 USD depending on nationality and entry type.
How long does South Korea visa processing take?
K-ETA processing takes 24-72 hours. Tourist visa processing takes 5-10 business days for standard processing, or 2-3 business days for express processing (additional fee).
Can I extend my stay in South Korea?
You can apply to extend your stay at the local immigration office before your visa-free period expires. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis and typically allow an additional 30-90 days.