South Korea Extends K-ETA Waiver Through 2026, Making Visits Easier for Millions

What Changed—and Why It Matters

South Korea has extended its K-ETA exemption until December 2026, removing a major pre-trip step for visitors from 67 countries. Travelers from these places can continue to enter without applying for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization, a move designed to cut red tape and welcome more tourists. Officials framed the decision as part of a broader push to simplify entry, revive tourism, and support the economy. By lowering barriers now, South Korea aims to convert first-time visitors into repeat travelers in the years ahead. The extension also signals policy stability, which helps airlines, tour operators, and travelers plan with confidence. In short, it is a clear green light for international trips to Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and beyond.

A Quick Refresher: What Is K-ETA

Launched in September 2021, K-ETA is a pre-travel authorization for visa-free nationals. The system was meant to speed arrivals while enhancing border security. In 2023, to stimulate inbound travel, the government suspended the requirement for many countries, including major markets in Europe and North America. That waiver was first pushed to December 31, 2025, and has now been extended again through the end of 2026. Eligible visitors do not need to file a K-ETA before boarding, though they can still apply voluntarily. Holding a valid K-ETA comes with perks, including skipping the paper arrival card at the airport.

The Policy Backdrop: Tourism Strategy and New Perks Ahead

The decision came out of the 10th National Tourism Strategy Meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister and attended by multiple ministries. Leaders reaffirmed a long-range plan to grow tourism while keeping the entry experience simple and digital. Alongside the K-ETA extension, officials previewed a new tourist pass expected in 2026 that will bundle transportation with entry to cultural and leisure attractions. The goal is to make itineraries easier to build and better value for money. The government also set an ambitious target to welcome 30 million international visitors by 2030. Expect more promotion of K-culture, new routes that reach beyond Seoul, and stronger support for regional destinations.

Who Can Skip K-ETA Right Now

Sixty-seven countries and territories remain exempt from K-ETA during the extension period. The list spans every region and includes key markets such as Canada, the United States, Mexico, Chile, and Colombia in the Americas; Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Brunei, Hong Kong, and Macao in Asia; the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Greece, and the Vatican in Europe; Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Palau, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands in Oceania; South Africa in Africa; and Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East. Authorities noted that adjustments are possible, and any changes will appear in a formal administrative notice. Travelers should always verify their nationality’s status before booking. For now, however, most major visitor markets remain on the exemption list. That stability should keep demand strong across seasons.

e-Arrival Card: Digital Now, Mandatory Soon

South Korea has also modernized the arrival process with the e-Arrival Card, a digital entry form introduced in February 2025. Travelers can complete it online up to three days before landing, easing congestion at immigration. During the transition, both paper and digital versions are accepted, but the e-Arrival Card will become mandatory in 2026. Certain groups are exempt from filing it, including passengers who already hold a valid K-ETA, registered residents of South Korea, airline crew, and some travelers entering on group visas or special permits. If you qualify for the exemption, you can skip the form and move straight through the regular arrival flow. Either way, the aim is a faster, more predictable entry experience.

What This Means for Your Trip

The extended K-ETA waiver removes a common pre-flight to-do for millions of travelers. If your nationality is on the exempt list, you can book flights and accommodation without waiting for a separate authorization. If you prefer the added convenience at the airport, you can still apply for K-ETA voluntarily to bypass the paper arrival card. With a tourist pass on the horizon, itineraries that combine transit and attractions should get simpler and better priced in 2026. Meanwhile, South Korea’s push to spread visitors across the country will make it easier to add places like Gyeongju, Andong, Gangneung, Jeonju, and the southern coast to a Seoul or Busan trip. The overall takeaway is straightforward. Entry is easier, planning is clearer, and the country is investing in the details that make travel feel smooth.

Bottom Line

By extending the K-ETA exemption to December 2026 and leaning into digital arrivals, South Korea is doubling down on visitor-friendly policies. The combination of simpler entry, a forthcoming tourist pass, and a nationwide tourism agenda sets the stage for steady growth through the decade. If South Korea has been on your list, this is a great window to go—from late-night markets and palace walks in Seoul to volcanic trails on Jeju and coastal towns that rarely see crowds. Pack your itinerary, check your country’s exemption status, and expect a quicker path from touchdown to your first bowl of bibimbap.

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This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI Assistance