South Korea Expands K-ETA Exemption to 27 Countries
South Korea has expanded the K-ETA exemption list to include 27 countries, reducing travel formalities for visitors from key markets like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Hong Kong, and the Czech Republic.
The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) required for travelers to South Korea has seen an expanded exemption list, now covering 27 nationalities, up from the initial 22 announced in April 2024, according to a update from Korean Air citing Timatic.
The five additional countries included in this expansion reflect the potential economic importance of these markets to South Korean tourism and their alignment with national passport and security standards. Notable additions include countries with close diplomatic ties to South Korea, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Full list of countries exempt from K-ETA (as of July 2024)
The following countries and regions are eligible for K-ETA exemption until January 1, 2025, with new additions in bold:
Germany
Saudi Arabia
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Canada
Denmark
Spain
United Arab Emirates
United States (including Guam)
Finland
France
Hong Kong
Italy
Japan
Macao
Norway
New Zealand
Netherlands
Poland
Qatar
Czech Republic
Romania
United Kingdom
Singapore
Sweden
Taiwan
What is the K-ETA?
The K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of eligible countries to visit South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa, depending on nationality. Applications are submitted online, requiring personal and passport details for verification by South Korean authorities.
Once approved, the authorization is linked to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Learn more about K-ETA requirements
Travelers not on the exemption list
Nationals of countries not included in the 27 exempted nationalities must still apply for a visa through the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate prior to travel.
