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South Korea for US citizens

No visa is needed for a short visit, and the K-ETA isn't needed right now. Temporarily not required for US citizens until 31 December 2026. You can still apply for a K-ETA if you'd rather skip the arrival card. US citizens also need: Korea e-Arrival card.

Check my whole trip, free

Checked against official sources 3 October 2026

Everything US citizens need

  • Not neededNone (KRW 10,000 if you choose to apply)

    K-ETA

    Not required until 31 December 2026

    Temporarily not required for these passports until 31 December 2026. You can still apply for a K-ETA if you'd rather skip the arrival card.

    K-ETA exemption notice (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korea)
  • RequiredFree

    Korea e-Arrival card

    From 3 days before you enter Korea.

    Korea's free arrival card for travellers without a K-ETA. It asks for your travel dates, flight number and where you're staying in Korea.

    Timing, children and what you need e-arrivalcard.go.kr
  • RequiredNone

    Passport

    For your whole stay

    Your passport needs to be valid for your whole stay in Korea. Some airlines ask for more, so check with yours.

Questions

Do US citizens need a visa for South Korea?

No visa is needed for a short visit, and the K-ETA isn't needed right now. Temporarily not required for US citizens until 31 December 2026. You can still apply for a K-ETA if you'd rather skip the arrival card.

What forms do US citizens need for South Korea?

Korea e-Arrival card (Free): From 3 days before you enter Korea.

How much does it cost US citizens to enter South Korea?

Nothing: every form on this list is free on its official site.

Do children need them too?

Every traveller needs an arrival card unless they hold a K-ETA.

How long does my passport need to be valid?

Your passport needs to be valid for your whole stay in Korea. Some airlines ask for more, so check with yours.

Rules can change at short notice, so confirm on the official site before you travel. WayReady is an independent company, not a government agency. How we check.