Understanding the kETA validity rules is essential for planning your trips to South Korea. Your kETA is not a single-use permit – it allows multiple entries over an extended period, making it a convenient authorization for frequent travelers. This guide explains how long kETA is valid, how many times you can use it, and what circumstances may affect your kETA’s validity.
kETA Validity Period
A successfully issued kETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance, or until the expiry date of the passport it was issued for – whichever comes first. This means:
- If you apply on April 28, 2026, your kETA will be valid until April 28, 2028 (assuming your passport does not expire before then).
- If your passport expires in January 2027, your kETA will also expire in January 2027, even if the 2-year period has not elapsed.
This is why it is important to ensure your passport has sufficient validity when applying for kETA. If your passport will expire soon, consider renewing it before applying to maximize your kETA validity period.
Multiple Entries with kETA
kETA permits multiple entries into South Korea during its validity period. You can travel to South Korea as many times as you wish within the 2-year window, as long as each individual stay does not exceed 90 days.
This is particularly convenient for business travelers and frequent visitors who make multiple trips to South Korea each year. With a single kETA application (and a single KRW 10,000 payment), you can make unlimited visits over 2 years.
Stay Duration per Visit
While kETA permits multiple entries, each individual stay is limited to a maximum of 90 days. After 90 days, you must leave South Korea. When you re-enter, a new 90-day stay begins.
There is no provision to extend a single visit beyond 90 days using kETA. If you need to stay longer, you would need to apply for an appropriate Korean visa (such as a tourist visa extension) at a Korean immigration office while still in South Korea. The kETA vs. visa comparison explains your options.
What Invalidates Your kETA
Your kETA may become invalid before its 2-year expiry in the following circumstances:
- Passport renewal: kETA is linked to your specific passport number. A new passport means a new kETA application is required.
- Passport amendment: Significant changes to your passport details (such as a change of name) may require a new kETA.
- Visa obtained: If you obtain a Korean visa, your kETA is superseded by the visa.
- kETA suspension or cancellation: South Korea reserves the right to revoke a kETA if you violate immigration laws or if new security information comes to light.
- Nationality suspension: If your country’s kETA eligibility is suspended by Korea, your existing kETA may be revoked.
Checking Your kETA Status
You can verify your kETA status at any time by logging into your account on k-eta.go.kr. The portal shows your kETA approval date, expiry date, and current status (active/expired/revoked).
If you have not used your kETA for a long time and are planning a new trip to South Korea, it is worth logging in to check its status before booking flights. Learn about the full kETA application process if you need to renew.
kETA Exemption 2026 – No Validity Concern
If your nationality is covered by the temporary kETA exemption (US, UK, EU, Australia, etc.), you do not currently have a kETA and validity is not relevant to your 2026 trips. See our eligible countries page for your current status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is kETA Korea valid?
kETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance, or until the expiry date of the passport it was issued for – whichever comes first.
Can I enter South Korea multiple times with one kETA?
Yes – kETA permits unlimited multiple entries during its 2-year validity period. Each stay is limited to a maximum of 90 days.
What happens to my kETA when I get a new passport?
kETA is linked to your specific passport number. If you renew your passport, you must apply for a new kETA with your new passport details. Your old kETA becomes invalid immediately upon getting a new passport.
Can I extend my 90-day stay in South Korea with kETA?
No – kETA does not allow extensions beyond 90 days per visit. To stay longer, apply for a Korean visa extension at a Korean immigration office while still in South Korea.
