The Ministry of Justice has decided to extend the temporary exemption period for another year, from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.
The 22 countries that are currently exempt from K-ETA are subject to this extension. Those who are subject to the exemption will get a pop-up message when they scan a photo of their passport information page during the application.
Still, those who wish to receive benefits from K-ETA approval, such as not having to submit an arrival card, may apply for K-ETA; in that case, the application fee will be charged.
Those who have already obtained K-ETA can use it until its expiration date and the application fee paid is non-refundable.
Since September 2021, nationals of 112 countries eligible for visa-free entry need K-ETA approval in advance to board a flight or ship bound for South Korea.
K-ETA approval is generally valid for three years within the passport expiration date, unless the personal information, such as name, nationality or passport number, changes.
Travelers can use their approved K-ETA multiple times within the validity period as long as they do not exceed their allowed period of stay (which varies depending on their nationality).
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.