South Korea to Extend Validity of K-ETA to 3 Years

The Government of South Korea has recently announced that the country decided to extend the validity of the K-ETA by one year.

Until now, Electronic Travel Authorization was issued for 2 years. Under the latest changes in the country's visa policy, K-ETA will remain valid for 3 years from the date of issue.

It is another change announced by South Korea regarding the loosening of visa regulations.

In April 2023, South Korean authorities introduced a temporary exemption for nationals of 22 countries participating in the visa-waiver program. The exemption will end at the end of 2024. 

The new validity period of K-ETA became effective as of 3rd July 2023. Apart from the electronic authorization extension, the country now also exempts children and seniors from the K-ETA requirement.

New validity period

All travelers who will apply for K-ETA online will be able to use the travel authorization for 3 years as it is the new validity period for which the permit remains valid. 

K-ETA approvals issued before July 3rd, 2023, will remain effective until their expiration dates.

The South Korean Electronic Travel Authorization covers multiple entries to the country and allows for various lengths of stay - depending on the traveler’s nationality, it may be either 30,60, or 90 days. 

Children and seniors exemption

Starting from July 3rd, 2023, K-ETA will no longer be required of travelers aged 17 and younger, as well as travelers aged 65 and older. 

These travelers, however, may still register online for the South Korean Electronic Travel Authorization before traveling to South Korea to avoid the need to complete the arrival card upon arrival in the country. 

Travelers who are 18 years old on the date of their planned arrival in South Korea will need to apply for K-ETA before travel.