If you hold a US passport and are planning a trip to South Korea in 2026, you may be wondering whether you need a kETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization). The short answer for 2026: American citizens are currently exempt from kETA under South Korea’s temporary exemption policy, which has been extended through December 31, 2026. This page covers everything US travelers need to know about visiting South Korea in 2026.
Do US Citizens Need kETA for South Korea in 2026?
As of January 2026, the South Korean government has extended the temporary kETA exemption for US citizens through the end of 2026. This means American passport holders can enter South Korea visa-free and without kETA for stays of up to 90 days, for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits.
This exemption applies to all US passport holders. You do not need to register on k-eta.go.kr or pay any fee before travel. However, you should be aware of new digital requirements at entry – see the section on e-Arrival Cards below.
Visa-Free Entry for Americans – What Is Allowed
Under the US-South Korea visa waiver agreement, American citizens can enter South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days per visit. This applies to:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Business meetings and conferences (not employment)
- Family visits
- Short-term cultural or educational visits (not formal enrollment)
- Transit through South Korean airports
You cannot work or study formally in South Korea under visa-free entry. For work or long-term study, a separate Korean visa is required.
K-ETA e-Arrival Card – New Requirement for US Travelers
Even though kETA itself is not currently required, all travelers to South Korea – including Americans – must complete the mandatory K-ETA e-Arrival Card before arrival. This digital form replaced the old paper arrival/disembarkation card that passengers previously filled in on the plane.
The e-Arrival Card is submitted online before your flight departs. It collects your personal details, flight information, South Korean accommodation address, and basic health and travel history information. Completing it takes about 5-10 minutes. Learn more on our Korea entry requirements 2026 page.
What US Citizens Need to Enter South Korea in 2026
- Valid US passport – valid for the duration of your stay
- Completed K-ETA e-Arrival Card – submitted digitally before arrival
- Onward/return ticket – proof that you plan to leave South Korea within 90 days
- Sufficient funds – enough money to support yourself during your stay
- Accommodation details – address of your hotel, Airbnb, or host
South Korea Entry Rules for Americans
While entry is straightforward for most American travelers, Korean immigration officers may still ask questions about the purpose and length of your visit. Always carry documentation supporting your travel purpose – hotel booking confirmations, meeting invitations for business travel, or contact information for your South Korean host.
Be aware that overstaying your 90-day visa-free period can result in serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and future entry bans. If you need to stay longer, explore the options for extending your stay legally, such as applying for a visa at a Korean immigration office.
Future of kETA for US Citizens
The current exemption is temporary and is set to expire on December 31, 2026. It is possible that the South Korean government will extend the exemption further, but this has not been confirmed. After the exemption ends, US citizens may again be required to obtain kETA before traveling to South Korea. The kETA changes 2026 page will be updated with any new announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for South Korea?
No – US citizens can enter South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days under the US-South Korea visa waiver agreement. No visa or kETA is required through December 31, 2026.
Do US citizens need to fill out any forms before visiting South Korea?
Yes – all travelers, including US citizens, must complete the mandatory K-ETA e-Arrival Card digitally before their flight arrives in South Korea. This replaced the old paper disembarkation card.
How long can Americans stay in South Korea without a visa?
US citizens can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days per visit without a visa. For longer stays or to work/study, a Korean visa is required.
Will kETA become mandatory again for US citizens after 2026?
The current exemption runs until December 31, 2026. After that date, kETA may become mandatory for US citizens again, depending on whether the South Korean government extends or ends the exemption. Check our kETA 2026 updates page for the latest news.
