Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)
Nationals of visa-waiver countries who want to enter Korea without a consular visa.
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is a South Korean visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩10,000 / US$8 (plus processing fee)) and processing time (~within 72 hours), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is for
Nationals of visa-waiver countries who want to enter Korea without a consular visa.
No PR pathway; a travel authorization only.
Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) - eligibility criteria
- Hold a passport from a K-ETA eligible / visa-waiver country
- Travel for tourism, visiting, business meetings or events
- Valid for multiple entries within its validity period
- Approval required before boarding
Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) (South Korea) is ~₩10,000 / US$8 (plus processing fee), with an indicative processing time of ~within 72 hours. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Travel authorization |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (k-eta.go.kr) before travel |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days per entry (per visa-waiver agreement) |
| Work rights | No paid work permitted |
| Study rights | No formal study |
| Government fee | ~₩10,000 / US$8 (plus processing fee) |
| Processing time | ~within 72 hours |
| Route to PR | No PR pathway; a travel authorization only. |
Pathway & next steps
No PR pathway; a travel authorization only.
Many applicants also compare C-3 · C-3 Short-Term Visit (General), H-1 · H-1 Working Holiday. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) pitfalls we fix
Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) cost?
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) government fee is ~₩10,000 / US$8 (plus processing fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~within 72 hours. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) lead to permanent residence?
No PR pathway; a travel authorization only.
Can I work on the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)?
Work rights: No paid work permitted.
Who can apply for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)?
Nationals of visa-waiver countries who want to enter Korea without a consular visa.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority