Entry Requirements for South Korea:
A Comprehensive Guide for US Travelers

Are you considering a visit to the Republic of South Korea? Now is the perfect time to go, as South Korea is celebrating its travel year. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes will not need the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before entering South Korea. This travel guide is packed with helpful information and travel advice to help you make the most of your visit.

Can US citizens travel to South Korea right now?

What travel documents do American citizens need to enter South Korea?

Can US citizens go to South Korea without a passport?

Can US citizens get a South Korean visa on arrival?

Who can travel to South Korea without a visa?

How do I obtain or apply for a valid visa for South Korea?

How much is a South Korean visa for US citizens

How long is my South Korean visa valid?

What happens if I overstay my visa in South Korea?

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

What health requirements and screenings are required when entering South Korea?

FAQs on South Korea travel requirements Online resources for travelers to South Korea

Online resources for travelers to South Korea

Always travel well-informed with CIBTvisas

Can US citizens travel to South Korea right now?

Yes, US citizens can travel to South Korea. The South Korean government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions and waived the electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) requirement for visa-free travel in honor of the country's travel year festivities.

What travel documents do American citizens need to enter South Korea?

If you're a US citizen planning a trip to South Korea, you'll need a valid passport with at least 6 months left before it expires and one to two empty pages. Generally, you'll also need to obtain an approved K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for short-term stays, whether for business or pleasure. The K-ETA applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the US, and also grants a reentry permit for up to two years from the issue date. However, US citizens are exempt from needing the K-ETA to enter South Korea until December 2024.
A valid visa is required if you plan to stay in South Korea longer than 90 days. If you're traveling to study, work, invest in a business, or teach English, you must apply for the appropriate South Korean visa through the Korean Embassy or Consulate.

Can US citizens go to South Korea without a passport?

No, all US citizens must have a valid passport to enter South Korea, regardless of their visa status. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the planned entry date and have at least one blank page for a stamp.
US passports are not valid for travel to, in, or through North Korea, unless they are specially validated by the US Department of State. While traveling to South Korea, US citizens should not attempt to cross over to North Korea.

Can US citizens get a South Korean visa on arrival?

As a US citizen planning to travel to South Korea, you cannot obtain a visa on arrival. US citizens don't require a tourist visa to enter South Korea. Normally, you must apply for a K-ETA before entering Korea for short-term stays. However, that requirement has been lifted through December 2024.

Travelers planning long-term stays of more than 90 days must obtain a visa from a Korean Government diplomatic office, like the nearest embassy or consulate, before traveling for longer stays or going to South Korea to study or work. Plan ahead and obtain the necessary visa to avoid any inconvenience during your trip

Who can travel to South Korea without a visa?

Approximately 110 visa-exempt nationalities, including the US, can enter South Korea without a visa for tourism and short-term business purposes. However, most of these visitors are required to obtain an approved Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). The K-ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue and includes a multiple-reentry permit for short-term stays through the duration

How do I obtain or apply for a valid visa for South Korea?

To apply for a long-term visa to enter South Korea, you must schedule an appointment at the nearest embassy or consulate. The specific documentation required will depend on the type of visa you're applying for. Regardless of the type of visa, all applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity and one or two blank pages.

How much is a South Korean visa for US citizens?

The government fees for a long-term visa to enter South Korea will differ based on the applicant's nationality, the visa type, and the length of stay. Contact CIBTvisas (or the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate) for the most precise information on the fees for your application.

How long is my South Korean visa valid?

The duration of validity for a South Korean visa varies depending on the type of visa that has been granted. The K-ETA visa is valid for two years from the date of issuance and includes an automatic reentry permit. Travelers can make multiple trips to visit South Korea for short-term(90-day) stays within its validity period. Be sure to review your visa details for precise travel information and validity.

What happens if I overstay my visa in South Korea?

If you overstay your visa, you should apply for a visa extension from the Korea Immigration Service (KIS) before leaving the country. Travelers should also consult with KIS regarding changes in their visa category.

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

An entry and exit form is not required for US citizens traveling to South Korea.

What health requirements and screenings are required when entering South Korea?

There are currently no special requirements or screenings to enter Korea. Travelers should check the CDC’s travel guidance on South Korea for updates.

Vaccinations

Travelers to South Korea are not required to receive mandatory vaccinations. However, it is generally recommended that most travelers get vaccinated for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. To determine which vaccinations you may need and for other travel health tips, consult the CDC's recommendation.

Prescriptions

As a traveler, you can bring prescription drugs for personal use into Korea. You should carry a doctor's note or prescription and ensure the medicine is in its original packaging. If you need medication while in Korea, you must visit a local doctor and obtain a prescription before it can be filled by a Korean pharmacy. While Korean pharmacies do sell most prescription medications (even though the brand names may differ), they may not have psychotropics available.

COVID-19

Since COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, there are no COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements for entry into South Korea. According to the CDC, international travellers should be up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations before traveling abroad. Because the COVID-19 situation could change with little or no notice, travelers are advised to check the South Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency for updates before departing. A list of some COVID-19 testing facilities in South Korea and further information can be found on the Korean Embassy website, should travelers need testing for travel to other countries.

FAQs on South Korea travel requirements

Do I need to wear a mask in South Korea?

Per the current COVID-19 guidelines, wearing a mask in public places is voluntary in major cities in South Korea, except in certain hospitals and other medical care facilities. However, many South Koreans still wear masks outdoors and on public transport.

Are restaurants and bars open in South Korea?

Restaurants and bars are open in South Korea and operating normally.

Will my phone work in South Korea?

Most US carriers work in South Korea, but roaming charges may apply. Check with your service provider for data, text, and voice roaming charges. You can buy a local SIM card on arrival at South Korean airports or at a local shop. High-speed Wi-Fi is readily available in South Korea. Keeping your phone in flight mode and using Wi-Fi to connect is a cost-effective alternative to roaming.

What kind of plugs do I need in South Korea?

South Korea uses type C and F plugs, as found in Europe. US travelers will need a travel adapter. The standard voltage is 220V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. You may also want to pack a power converter if you use any electrical devices that aren’t rated for dual voltage.


What should I wear in South Korea?

South Korea is modern and cosmopolitan. People dress smartly and well in professional settings, and there is a general preference for modest dress. It is especially advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Can I smoke or drink alcohol in public in South Korea?

Smoking is prohibited in many public places and only permitted in designated areas. Drinking in public is allowed, but public drunkenness is frowned upon by local authorities. Local laws impose fines and penalties for causing disruptions to the public peace. To avoid visiting the local police station, it’s best to drink in moderation.

Is it safe for LGBTQ+ travelers in South Korea?

Although younger generations in South Korea are increasingly tolerant, many gays and lesbians still opt to keep their sexual orientation hidden from their families and employers. Those who choose to publicly share their orientation while traveling in South Korea should be prepared for possible negative reactions

Online resources for travelers to South

Always travel well-informed with CIBTvisas

Make sure your travel documentation is in order, and get ready to immerse yourself in South Korea's vibrant mix of tradition and innovation. An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border crossing requirements. Contact CIBTvisas for a quote today.

Anjeonhan yeohaeng doeseyo! Safe travels!

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