iVisa > South Korea

Get your South Korea visa

Apply online with iVisa and skip the hassle. It's fast and secure. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or transit, our simplified South Korea visa application process and expert support make it easier from start to finish.

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Our South Korea visa application process

How to apply for your South Korea ETA with iVisa

Complete your online application

Answer a few simple questions, upload your documents, see when you’ll get your visa, and pay using secure methods. You can save your progress and come back anytime. Most people finish in under 10 minutes.

The South Korea ETA is our most popular travel document for this destination. We’ll guide you through any unclear questions during the application process.

We review your application

The South Korea visa system is known for being a bit picky – your photo must be the right size, and your passport scan must be clear.

Don’t worry – we review your whole application to catch anything that might cause delays. One of our experts checks everything for errors or missing information to make sure it’s ready to go. This review is quick but thorough.

We submit it for government processing

We’re not the government, but we submit your application to them and are here for you along the way if there are any problems.

Get your South Korea ETA

We’ll email your approved ETA and let you know how to use it for your trip.

Woman at an airport holding a passport and boarding pass

Visa types needed for South Korea

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
South Korea e-Arrival Card
Tourist or General Visit Visa*
Short-term Visas (Type C)*
Student, Educational, Internship and Trainees Visa (Type D)*
Employment and Professional Activities Visa (Type E)*
Additional Visas*

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is a pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt passport holders visiting South Korea for tourism or business. It is valid for three years and allows multiple entries, with each stay capped at 30 days.

The K-ETA cannot be extended, and a new application is required once the three-year period ends.

Documents you’ll need to apply for the South Korea ETA:

🛂 A passport valid for 3 months after your arrival
📸 A digital passport-style photo
📧 An email address to create a profile for the application
💳 A debit or credit card to pay the fees

South Korea e-Arrival Card

The South Korea e-Arrival Card is an electronic immigration form required for most foreign travelers entering the country, except residents and K-ETA holders.

It serves as an entry declaration and must be completed online within three days (72 hours) before arrival. Each card is valid for a single entry and applies only to the trip submitted. The e-Arrival Card is mandatory at all ports of entry in South Korea.

What you’ll need to complete the South Korea e-Arrival Card:

🛂 A passport valid for the entire duration of your stay in South Korea
✈️ A travel itinerary
🏨 The address of your first stay in South Korea
📄 Your purpose of visit and current occupation
📧 An email address to receive confirmation and updates
💳 A debit or credit card to pay the iVisa service fees

Tourist or General Visit Visa*

The Tourist or General Visit visa is issued for short-term stays in South Korea for tourism and leisure. It is valid for up to 90 days, and both single- and multiple-entry options are available. Each stay is limited to 90 days, and the visa cannot be extended.

Unfortunately, we don’t currently offer this visa*

Short-term Visas (Type C)*

The Type C short-term visa allows travelers to stay in South Korea for a variety of purposes, including tourism or business exceeding 90 days, journalism, transit, or short-term employment. Validity and stay period are determined case by case, with single- and multiple-entry options available. Extensions may be granted depending on the circumstances.

Unfortunately, we don’t currently offer this visa*

Student, Educational, Internship and Trainees Visa (Type D)*

The Type D visa is designed for individuals traveling to South Korea for education or training, including higher education, artistry, industrial training, or internships. Validity typically ranges from six months to one year, depending on individual review. Both single- and multiple-entry options are available, and extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Unfortunately, we don’t currently offer this visa*

Employment and Professional Activities Visa (Type E)*

The Type E visa is issued to individuals working in South Korea under professional contracts. It is usually valid for one to three years, depending on the employment agreement, and permits multiple entries. Holders may remain in the country for the entire validity period, with extensions available as needed.

Unfortunately, we don’t currently offer this visa*

Additional Visas*

Family and Residence Visa (Type F): The Type F visa allows individuals to join family members who reside in South Korea or return long-term as ethnic Koreans. It is valid for up to five years, permits multiple entries, and covers the entire validity period. Extensions are possible on a case-by-case basis.
Permanent Residency Visa: The Permanent Residency visa grants holders long-term residence in South Korea. It is valid for up to 10 years and allows multiple entries and permits stay throughout the validity period. Once issued, the residency card can be renewed.
Marriage Visa: The Marriage visa is issued to foreign nationals married to South Korean citizens. It is initially valid for one to two years, with multiple entries permitted. Holders may stay for the whole duration of validity, and the visa may later be converted to Permanent Residency.
Humanitarian and Miscellaneous Visa (Type G): The Type G visa covers a wide range of situations not addressed by other categories, including medical treatment, litigation, or asylum. Validity, stay period, and entries are determined on a case-by-case basis, with extensions possible depending on individual circumstances.
Working Holiday Visa: The Working Holiday visa is available to young travelers who wish to explore South Korea while working limited jobs to support their stay. Depending on nationality, it is valid for 12 to 18 months and permits multiple entries. Stay periods and extensions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Semi-Skilled Worker Visa: The Semi-skilled worker visa is intended for workers in the manufacturing and construction sectors. It is valid for three years, allows multiple entries, and permits stays for the entire validity period. Extensions are processed through the relevant government authority.
Military Visa (Type M): The Type M visa is issued to military personnel stationed in South Korea. Both validity and stay are linked to the duration of service, with multiple entries permitted. Extensions can be arranged through the appropriate government department.
South Korea Investment Visa: The Investment visa enables foreign nationals to obtain residency, and in some cases, permanent residency or citizenship, through investment. Options include the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business (IISPB), the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Real Estate (IISRE), or large-scale investments that create employment. Validity and conditions depend on the program, with multiple entries permitted. Stays are indefinite, though the visa itself is not extendable, as residency or citizenship may be granted.

Unfortunately, we don’t currently offer this visa*

South Korea visa policy

The South Korean visa policy offers a diverse range of travel authorizations depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Citizens of visa-exempt countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European nations, can travel to South Korea for short stays without a visa but must first obtain a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before boarding their flight.

This electronic approval is mandatory for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Travelers from countries not covered by the visa exemption program must apply for an appropriate short-term visa, such as the C-3 visa for tourism, business, or medical treatment. These visas typically allow single or multiple entries and grant stays of up to 90 days, with validity depending on the traveler’s purpose and circumstances.

South Korea also offers a broad selection of work and study visas for more extended stays. These include the E-2 visa for foreign language instructors, the D-2 visa for international students enrolled in Korean universities, and the D-7 or D-8 visas for intra-company transfers and investors. Applicants must meet specific requirements such as proof of employment, academic enrollment, or business investment.

Long-term residency options, such as the F-2 resident visa or the F-5 permanent residency visa, are available to foreign nationals who meet qualifications, including family ties, employment history, or significant contributions to Korean society.

In addition to standard visa categories, South Korea provides special visas for working holiday participants, diplomatic staff, and government officials. Humanitarian visas are also available for those needing protection or for exceptional circumstances. Travelers transiting through South Korea may qualify for visa-free entry for short stays if they meet specific nationality and travel route requirements.

South Korea visa prices

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

From $69.99

Valid for 3 years after issued

Multiple entry

Stay up to 90 days per entry

South Korea e-Arrival Card

From $69.99

Valid for 4 days after issued

Single entry

Stay up to 30 days per entry

Fast facts

iVisa approval rate:

99%

Main reason for denials:

Unclear photo scans

Average time it takes to apply:

20 mins

Why choose iVisa?

Applying for a visa on your own can be confusing and time-consuming. iVisa simplifies the process, reduces errors, and gives you peace of mind

Applying by yourself

Simple, easy forms

24x7 support from visa experts

Error detection to prevent rejections

World's easiest passport scan

Multiple payment methods

1.4M happy customers

24/7support

65,000+ reviews

10 years of experience

98% visa approval rate

Certified customer reviews

Travelers to South Korea rated this product a 4.8 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.

4.8 out of 5

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Iris L.

December 30, 2025

"Very clear and simple process"

Mireya Y.

May 6, 2025

"It was a great experience the ivisa website was straightforward and easy to use with no complications. Many thanks to the ivisa team!"

Ariana W.

April 11, 2025

"Easy to follow, and very educational!"

Andres M.

April 1, 2025

"A helpful tool that provides all the necessary information, making it easy to follow each step until completion Thank you"

Caroline K.

March 17, 2025

"thank you so much. Your team is outstanding. Great service, great attitude!"

Anna P.

January 21, 2025

"Fast and seamless experience!!"

Max S.

December 8, 2024

"Quick and simple service"

Landon F.

October 15, 2024

"User friendly and very simple to navigate, great app and website!!"

Charlie R.

November 12, 2024

"The process was effortless to apply for the visa"

Ariana F.

September 30, 2024

"I received quick and accurate responses and the application process was simplified and straightforward"

FAQs

What is the South Korea K-ETA and who needs it?

The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is a mandatory electronic travel permit required for nationals of visa-exempt countries when visiting South Korea for tourism, business, or family visits. Travelers must apply online and receive approval before boarding their flight.

How long is the K-ETA valid and how long can I stay in South Korea?

The K-ETA is typically valid for two years from the approval date or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Depending on your nationality, it allows multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days per visit.

How do I apply for a South Korea K-ETA?

If you want an expert-guided process, you can apply for a K-ETA through the iVisa platform. To complete the application, you will need a valid passport, a recent photograph, and a working email address.

Can I extend my stay in South Korea with a K-ETA?

No, you cannot extend your stay if you entered South Korea using a K-ETA. If you must stay longer, leave the country and apply for an appropriate visa from a Korean consulate or embassy.

What types of short-term visas does South Korea offer?

South Korea offers several short-term visas, including the C-3 visa for tourism, business, and short-term family visits, as well as other categories like the C-4 short-term employment visa. Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements and permitted activities.

Do I need a visa to transit through South Korea?

Some travelers may transit through South Korea without a visa if they meet specific criteria, such as holding a confirmed onward ticket and coming from or going to specific countries. However, others may require a transit visa (B-2) depending on their nationality and travel plans.

What is the South Korea transit visa and who needs it?

The South Korea transit visa (B-2) allows travelers to stay in the country for a limited period while connecting to a third country. Nationals of some countries are eligible for visa-free transit entry under specific circumstances, while others must apply for the B-2 visa in advance.

What visas are available for work and study in South Korea?

South Korea offers various visas for employment and education, such as the E-2 visa for foreign language instructors, the D-2 visa for students attending Korean universities, and the E-7 visa for skilled workers. Each visa has its own eligibility criteria and application process.

How can I apply for a South Korea visa other than the K-ETA?

You must apply for other South Korean visas through the official Hi Korea website or at a South Korean embassy or consulate in your country. The application process includes submitting required documents such as a passport, application form, photo, and proof of your travel purpose.

Where can I find the latest South Korea visa requirements?

The latest visa requirements and application guidelines are available on the Korea Immigration Service website. Always check these sources before applying, as policies may change without notice.