South Korea Extends ETA Exemption for 67 Countries

7. Seoul, South Korea — 12.44 million international visitors.

South Korea has announced an extension of the temporary K-ETA exemption for travelers from 67 visa-exempt countries until December 31, 2025. The exemption, initially set to end on December 31, 2024, has been extended by an additional year to boost tourism during the “Visit Korea Year (2023–2024)” initiative.

According to the official K-ETA website, this extension aims to simplify travel to South Korea for eligible visitors. Travelers who wish to enjoy the benefits of the K-ETA, such as bypassing the submission of arrival cards, can still apply for it. Those who have already obtained a K-ETA may continue to use it until its expiration date, though application fees are non-refundable.

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K-ETA Overview:

Introduced in September 2021, the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) allows South Korean authorities to pre-screen visitors from 112 short-stay visa-exempt countries, enhancing border security and traveler convenience. It costs KRW 10,000 (approximately €7 or $7) and remains valid for three years, permitting multiple tourist or business visits. The length of stay varies by nationality—typically 90 days for Europeans and Americans and six months for Canadians. Travelers aged 17 and under, as well as those 65 and older, have been exempt from K-ETA requirements since July 2023.

Eligible Countries for K-ETA Exemption:

Until December 31, 2025, citizens of the following 67 countries and territories can visit South Korea without applying for a K-ETA:

Africa: South Africa
Americas: Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, United States
Asia: Bahrain, Brunei, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Macau, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates
Europe: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Vatican
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu

Travelers who qualify under this exemption can continue to enjoy visa-free access, streamlining their travel experience to South Korea.