Last updated August 27, 2026 · Editorial policy
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South Korea at a glance: best around Apr–Jun (12–23°C days, some rain) · one reference point, not the whole country · Plugs C,F (220 V) · drives right · climate data
More: When to visit South Korea · South Korea travel guide
More: When to visit South Korea · South Korea travel guide
South Korea Visa Requirements 2026: Complete Guide by Nationality
South Korea gives most Western passports 90-day visa-free entry. K-ETA is waived for 22 nationalities (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and the EU) until 31 December 2026; those travellers complete the free e-Arrival Card instead.
Quick Summary
South Korea gives most Western passports 90-day visa-free entry. K-ETA is waived for 22 nationalities (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and the EU) until 31 December 2026; those travellers complete the free e-Arrival Card instead.
Visa Requirements by Nationality
| Passport | Type | Duration | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Visa-free (K-ETA waived) | 90 days | $0 | K-ETA waived to 31 Dec 2026; e-Arrival Card required |
| UK | Visa-free (K-ETA waived) | 90 days | $0 | K-ETA waived to 31 Dec 2026; e-Arrival Card required |
| Canada | Visa-free (K-ETA waived) | 180 days | $0 | K-ETA waived to 31 Dec 2026; e-Arrival Card required |
| Australia | Visa-free (K-ETA waived) | 90 days | $0 | K-ETA waived to 31 Dec 2026; e-Arrival Card required |
| EU passports | Visa-free (K-ETA waived) | 90 days | $0 | K-ETA waived to 31 Dec 2026; e-Arrival Card required |
| Japan | Visa-free | 90 days | $0 | K-ETA temporarily exempt |
| India | Visa required | Up to 90 days | $40 | Embassy application |
| China | Visa required | Up to 90 days | $40 | Embassy application |
What You Need to Enter South Korea
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond stay
- e-Arrival Card completed (K-ETA waived for 22 nationalities to 31 Dec 2026)
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Vaccination records as required
Planning your trip? See our complete South Korea travel guide, the destinations index, or the Ultimate Bucket List for inspiration.
South Korea Visa FAQ
Do you need a visa for South Korea?
Most Western passports — no, 90-day visa-free, and K-ETA is waived until 31 December 2026 (complete the free e-Arrival Card instead). Indians + Chinese — full visa.
How long does K-ETA take?
Typically 30 minutes to 72 hours. Apply 1 week ahead.
Can Canadians stay longer in South Korea?
Yes — Canadians uniquely get 180 days visa-free (bilateral agreement).
Is K-ETA the same as a visa?
No — K-ETA is travel authorization (like ESTA). Doesn't replace visa for nationalities that need one.
Can you transit through Korea without a visa?
Yes — most nationalities get 24-hour transit visa-free if continuing to a third country.
Source: Republic of Korea – official K-ETA portal. The K-ETA waiver for 22 nationalities runs to 31 December 2026; confirm before booking. Last checked 25 August 2026.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.
