If you are planning a trip to South Korea, you need to know a few simple rules and requirements to ensure a fast and smooth entry into the country.
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. To prepare for your visit to South Korea, you’ll need a valid U.S. passport and an approved digital entry form.
This guide covers all the essential steps you need to take and the travel documents required for U.S. citizens traveling to South Korea.
Quick Summary: South Korea Entry Rules
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa Required | No (Visa Waiver applies for stays up to 90 days). |
| K-ETA Status | Waiver in effect until Dec 31, 2026 (Mandatory starting Jan 1, 2027). |
| Passport Validity | Must be valid at the time of entry. (6 months recommended). |
| Required Forms | Customs Declaration Form (digital or paper) is mandatory. |
| Working | Strictly prohibited under the visa waiver. |
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South Korea Mandatory Entry Documents & Status
These are the core documents required of U.S. citizens to receive permission to enter South Korea.
Important: Passport Validity Rule
While South Korea officially requires your passport to be valid only on the date of entry, airlines often require 6 months validity. Check your expiration date now.
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Visa Exemption Status:
- Short Stays (90 Days or Less): U.S. citizens are currently visa-exempt for tourism or business visits of up to 90 days. You do not need a traditional visa.
- Longer Stays: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, or if your trip is for work or study, you must obtain the correct visa from a Korean Consulate before you travel.
K-ETA Status (Electronic Travel Authorization):
- Current Waiver: The K-ETA fee is currently waived (free) for U.S. citizens until December 31, 2026, as part of a tourism promotion. (Official Announcement).
- Benefit of K-ETA Now: If you apply for and receive a K-ETA now (even during the waiver), you are exempt from filling out a paper Arrival Card at the airport.
U.S. Passport Validity:
- South Korea officially requires your U.S. passport to be valid on the day of entry.
- While the official rule is flexible, it is strongly advised to follow the common international travel standard of having at least six months of validity remaining on your passport.
South Korea Mandatory Pre-Arrival Forms
You must prepare these digital or paper declarations before or during your flight.
1. Customs Declaration:
- Mandatory: All travelers must submit a Customs Declaration form upon arrival.
- Digital Option: You can complete the declaration using the Korea Customs Declaration for Travelers mobile app before landing.
2. Arrival Card (Immigration):
- Mandatory (Unless you have a K-ETA): If you do not have an approved K-ETA, you must fill out an Arrival Card.
- Digital Option: You can complete the e-Arrival Card online up to three days before arrival to speed up the process.
3. Health Declaration (Q-Code)
Heads Up: Travelers arriving from or transiting through specific U.S. states (e.g., California, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, Texas) or other designated regions with local outbreaks must submit a Q-Code Health Declaration upon arrival.
Check the official Q-Code website 3 days before travel to see if your departure state is on the list.
Additional Restrictions & Considerations
- Currency declaration: Travelers must declare if carrying more than USD $10,000 (or equivalent) in cash or monetary instruments when entering or leaving South Korea.
- Strict Narcotics Rules: Medications containing amphetamines (e.g., Adderall) or strong narcotics are illegal in South Korea without a specific prior permit from the Narcotics Control Division. A simple doctor's note is not sufficient. Carrying these without approval can lead to arrest or deportation.
- Overstays: Staying beyond the 90-day limit without a visa can result in fines, detention, and possible deportation.
Money-Saving Tip: Tax Refunds
Foreign tourists can receive an immediate tax refund at participating stores (like Olive Young, Lotte Mart, etc.) for purchases between 30,000 KRW and 500,000 KRW. Simply show your passport at checkout to have the VAT deducted instantly!
South Korea Entry Procedures: A 3-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Passport and K-ETA Status
- Check that your U.S. passport is valid and ready.
- Optional: Apply for the K-ETA to skip the arrival card line.
Step 2: Complete the Digital Forms
- Download the mobile app to complete the Customs Declaration before arrival.
- Complete the e-Arrival Card online unless you have an approved K-ETA.
Step 3: Be Ready at Immigration
- Have your U.S. passport and any necessary forms ready.
- Purpose of stay: Immigration officers may ask about your intended activities and accommodation.
- Be prepared to provide fingerprints and a facial photo at the Immigration counter.
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South Korea Entry Requirements Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: The K-ETA is waived (free) for U.S. citizens until December 31, 2026. Starting January 1, 2027, a K-ETA is mandatory for all foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens.
A: If it is before December 31, 2026, then you must fill out an Arrival Card if you do not have an approved K-ETA. Travelers who obtain a K-ETA are exempt from submitting the Arrival Card.
A: South Korea officially requires your passport to be valid on the day of entry. However, U.S. and airline authorities still highly recommend having at least six months of validity for all international travel.
A: If it is before December 31, 2026, you can travel for short business meetings for up to 90 days on a visa waiver. However, working, receiving income, or starting employment requires a specific work visa (E-series), which you must get in advance.
A: No. The Q-Code is no longer mandatory for all travelers, but it may be required if you are traveling from a specific U.S. state (e.g. CA, FL, TX) or region that is under special quarantine inspection due to infectious disease monitoring.
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