Wondering if you need a valid visa for travel to South Korea, and what entry and exit requirements might be in place? Before you travel, make sure you’re bringing the right documentation—not only for your benefit, but to help protect the people of the Korean peninsula too.

South Korea Travel Requirements: Know Before You Go

From documents to vaccinations, here’s everything the Korean authorities require for international arrivals to South Korea.

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South Korea Required Documents

  • Passport: You’ll need a valid passport that is valid at the time of entry.
  • South Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) (*currently not required): From April 1, 2023, through December 31, 2024, US nationals and nationals of 22 other countries don’t need to get a K-ETA to enter South Korea for short-term tourist or business visits. You can still apply for one if desired, but it’s not necessary to enter Korea.
  • Entry and Exit Forms: Required for all passengers arriving in South Korea by air or sea.

South Korea’s entry requirements may vary by country. Confirm if there’s anything else you need to enter South Korea by contacting Entriva , or your country’s South Korean embassy.

How Do I Obtain a Passport?

If you do not already have a passport, you can apply for one at your local passport office. The process typically takes four to six weeks, so make sure to apply well in advance of your trip. If you already have a passport, make sure to check its expiration date and renew it if necessary.

To get a United States passport, an American citizen needs to follow these steps:

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  1. Fill out form DS-11: The DS-11 form is available online or can be obtained at a passport acceptance facility.
  2. Gather required documents: You will need to provide proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license).
  3. Get a passport photo taken: Your photo must meet specific requirements, such as size, lighting, and positioning.
  4. Pay the application fee: The fee varies depending on the type of passport and processing time selected. The average processing time for a new passport is four to six weeks, but expedited services are available for an additional cost.
  5. Submit your application in person: You can submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, which can be found at many post offices, courthouses, and libraries.
  6. Track your application status: You can check the status of your passport application online or by phone.

How Do I Obtain A South Korean Visa?

You can obtain a visa by applying online through a visa service provider like Entriva, or through the South Korean government’s official website. The application process typically takes between 48 and 72 hours, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Make sure to apply for your visa well in advance of your trip to allow for processing time.

How Do I Obtain An Entry and Exit Form?

Upon entering and leaving South Korea, you’ll need to complete a Traveler Declaration Form. You can print a copy in advance, or you’ll receive it before going through customs and immigration from your flight crew.

South Korea Health Requirements and Screenings

To keep yourself and the rest of the country healthy and safe, monitor local media for any health-related issues, check local announcements regarding potential risks or developing natural disasters, and pay close attention to your health post-arrival. Read on for more on South Korea’s health requirements for entry.

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COVID-19

You’re not required to show proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or enter quarantine upon entering South Korea. Masks are not required, but it’s common for people in Korea to wear them whenever they’re going out in public and don’t feel well. If you feel ill while traveling, mask up and practice social distancing.

As COVID-19 is an ongoing global health issue, restrictions are subject to change. Be sure to check for updates from the South Korean government’s Disease Control and Prevention Agency or visit the website of your nearest embassy in South Korea.

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Vaccinations

In addition to being up-to-date on your regular vaccinations, like flu, polio, shingles, and measles, the following vaccinations are recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to South Korea.

  • COVID-19: Recommended
  • Hepatitis A: Recommended for unvaccinated travelers older than one year and infants ages six to 11 months
  • Hepatitis B: Recommended for unvaccinated travelers ages 60 or older
  • Japanese encephalitis: Recommended
  • Malaria: Recommended
  • Typhoid: Recommended
  • Tick-borne Encephalitis: Recommended

You should get any recommended or required vaccinations at least a month before your trip. Check the CDC’s South Korea recommendations for more up-to-date information on vaccine requirements.

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Prescriptions

South Korea has very strict laws regarding drug use, and travelers are prohibited from bringing narcotics into the country. If you need to bring prescription medication with you during your trip, you should do the following to comply with Korean law:

  • Check with the Narcotics Division of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of South Korea or a South Korean embassy or consulate for further information. Certain prescription medications are considered illegal drugs overseas, so you need to ensure the drug is legal to bring into the country.
  • Carry the medications in their original packing. You may also need to fill out a form to carry with you.
  • Bring a copy of the prescription and a letter from your doctor.
  • Declare your medications at customs to the local authorities with the proper documentation.
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Medical Records

If you’re traveling to South Korea for medical treatment, you’ll need to provide relevant medical records, proof of needed medical services from a healthcare provider, proof of financial stability to pay for the treatment and staying in Korea before and after treatment, and certification of registration from the hospital or clinic where you’ll be a patient. Bring copies and any other relevant health records with you as well.

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Travel Insurance

Whether you encounter a natural disaster or suffer a health emergency, you may require medical care in South Korea—and overseas medical costs can add up. While it’s not required, acquiring travel medical insurance for your trip is highly recommended. Look at plans that cover emergency assistance, medical evacuation, violent incidents, and/or catastrophic natural events, and decide what best meets your needs.

Preparing for Your South Korea Trip

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a South Korea visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to South Korea,  including travel restrictions, local laws, and culture and traditions, visit our South Korea content hub.