Do you know KETA? Required before entering Korea!

ETA portal | Updated on 2024-09-03

If you're a foreign traveler planning to visit South Korea, it's now mandatory to register for KETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). KETA is a process for citizens of visa-free countries to obtain travel authorization online before entering South Korea, a system introduced by the South Korean government for people entering the country for tourism, business, or visitation. In this article, we'll give you a comprehensive guide to what KETA is, how to register, and what to expect.

 

1. What is KETA??

KETA is an electronic system for citizens of visa-free countries wishing to travel to South Korea to obtain travel authorization before entering the country. Visitors who previously did not require a visa can now enter Korea only with KETA approval. This system was introduced to enhance Korea's immigration security by pre-screening visitors.

 

2. KETA Registration Process

KETA registration is an easy process. Here's how to apply for KETA

  1. Go to the application website: You can apply at etaportal.net.
  2. Fill in the required information: You will need to enter your passport details, the purpose of your visit and where you will be staying.
  3. Submit your application: Your request will be submitted once you have completed the card payment.
  4. Wait for approval: Approval usually takes a few hours to 72 hours. You can check your approval status via email.

 

3. Who needs a KETA?

All citizens of visa-free countries are required to apply for a KETA, e.g. visitors from the United States, Canada and Australia. A KETA is required regardless of the purpose of your visit, even if you are visa exempt.

List of applicable countries

Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Eswatini, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guam, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kuwait, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Nauru, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Oman, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of South Africa, Romania, Russia, Saint Kitts-Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela.

 

4. After KETA Approval

If you are approved, your approved KETA is valid for 3 years and you can enter Korea multiple times during this period. However, if your passport is not valid for 3 years at the time of application, your approval will be valid for as long as your passport is valid.

 

5. Precautions when applying for a KETA

There are a few things to keep in mind when applying for a KETA

  • Accuracy of information: All information must be entered correctly, including passport number, full name, etc. Typos or incorrect information may result in rejection.
  • Reason for rejection: If you do not meet the internal review criteria, you will be rejected. The internal screening criteria are not publicly available.

 

6. KETA Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. If I am approved for KETA, can I work in Korea?

A1. No. You must apply for a separate visa to work in Korea.

Q2. If I received KETA approval with false information, can I enter the country?

A2. You may be denied entry into Korea. We recommend that you re-register.

Q3. I was approved for KETA with incorrect passport information, can I correct it?

A3. No. Once approved or denied, it cannot be corrected. Please re-apply with the correct passport information.

Q4. My passport was reissued after KETA approval. Do I need to reapply?

A4. Yes, you do. Please reapply to KETA with your new passport information.

Q5. I plan to visit Jeju Island. Do I have to register for KETA?

A5. KETA registration is also required to visit Jeju Island.

 

7. Preparation Beyond KETA

In addition to enrolling in KETA, here are some things that will help you prepare for your trip to Korea.

  • Travel insurance: It's a good idea to have travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.
  • Essential apps: It's a good idea to have Korean mapping apps such as Naver Maps, Kakao Maps, and others installed in advance.
  • Emergency contacts: Make sure you have embassy contacts and other information you may need while in South Korea.

 

If you're planning a trip to South Korea, registering with etaportal.net is the first step. The application process is simple, but it's important to enter the correct information and prepare ahead of time. We hope these tips will help you complete your KETA application smoothly and have an enjoyable trip to Korea!

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