The kETA Korea (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization) is an electronic pre-travel authorization required for eligible visa-free travelers entering South Korea. Whether you are flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo (GMP), or Gimhae (PUS), you may need to secure your kETA before boarding your flight. This guide covers everything you need to know about kETA Korea in 2026 – from eligibility and application steps to fees, validity, and the latest exemption updates.
What Is kETA Korea?
The kETA – short for Korean Electronic Travel Authorization – is a digital travel permit launched by the South Korean government. It is mandatory for citizens of 112 visa-exempt countries who wish to visit South Korea for tourism, business, transit, or family visits of up to 90 days. Issued electronically and linked to your passport, kETA replaces the need for a paper visa for eligible nationalities.
The official application is submitted through the government portal at k-eta.go.kr. Processing is typically instant but can take up to 72 hours. The authorization is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first – and allows multiple entries into South Korea.
Who Needs kETA in 2026?
South Korea has extended its temporary kETA exemption until the end of 2026 for citizens of several major countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Australia, Canada, and Japan. This means that travelers from these countries can currently enter South Korea visa-free without obtaining a kETA, though they must still complete a mandatory K-ETA e-Arrival Card upon entry.
However, not all 112 kETA-eligible countries benefit from this exemption. If your nationality is not on the temporary exemption list, you must apply for kETA before traveling. Always check the full list of eligible countries and the current exemption status before your trip.
How to Apply for kETA – Step by Step
- Visit the official portal: Go to k-eta.go.kr and select your language.
- Create an account: Register with a valid email address and log in to the application portal.
- Fill in the application form: Enter your passport details, travel information, accommodation in Korea, and purpose of visit.
- Upload a passport photo: Provide a recent digital photo meeting the specified requirements (white background, clear face).
- Pay the fee: The kETA fee is KRW 10,000 (approximately $7.50 USD) per person, payable by credit or debit card.
- Submit and wait: Processing is usually instant. You will receive a confirmation email within 72 hours at most. Save or print your kETA approval.
For a detailed walkthrough, visit our kETA application guide.
kETA Fee and Processing Time
The current kETA fee is KRW 10,000, which is approximately $7.50 USD or €7 EUR. Payment is accepted via Visa, Mastercard, and other major credit and debit cards through the official government portal. No additional service fees apply when applying directly at k-eta.go.kr.
Standard processing time is instant for most applicants. In rare cases – particularly if additional document verification is needed – processing can take up to 72 hours. Apply at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure to avoid any last-minute complications. Learn more on our processing time page.
kETA Validity and Usage
Your kETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until the expiry date of the passport used during the application – whichever is sooner. During this validity period, you can make multiple entries into South Korea, with each stay limited to a maximum of 90 days per visit.
If you renew your passport after obtaining kETA, you will need to apply for a new authorization, as kETA is tied to your specific passport number. For full details on validity conditions, see our kETA validity guide.
kETA vs. Korean Visa
kETA is not a visa – it is a pre-travel authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries. If you hold a passport from a country that does not have a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea, you must apply for a traditional Korean visa through your nearest Korean embassy or consulate. Check our kETA vs. visa comparison for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need kETA for South Korea in 2026?
As of 2026, US citizens benefit from the temporary kETA exemption extended until December 31, 2026. American travelers can enter South Korea visa-free without kETA. However, all travelers must complete the mandatory K-ETA e-Arrival Card upon arrival. See our US citizens kETA guide for details.
How much does kETA cost?
The kETA fee is KRW 10,000, approximately $7.50 USD. The fee is paid online via credit or debit card when submitting your application on the official k-eta.go.kr portal.
How long does kETA take to process?
Most kETA applications are processed instantly. In some cases, processing may take up to 72 hours. It is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your scheduled flight.
How long is kETA valid?
kETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance, or until the passport expiry date – whichever comes first. It permits multiple entries to South Korea, with each stay up to 90 days.
Which airports accept kETA in South Korea?
kETA is accepted at Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP), and Gimhae International Airport (PUS). See our full guide on kETA airports in Korea.
