korea tourist visa singapore

Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Republic of Singapore

• Ambassador’s Greetings
• Embassy Notice
• Location/Contact
• Embassy Information
• Embassy Activities
• Visa Issuance
• Visa Requirement
• Notarise/etc
• Bilateral Relations
• About Korea

• Consular/Visa Service

● Most visa applications are to be submitted through appointed visa agents. Please refer to the respective visa checklist (scroll down this page and click on "Visa Requirements") for the details.

● Address of Consular Section: 47 Scotts Road #16-03/04, Goldbell Towers, Singapore 228233. (Newton MRT Station, Exit A)

● Operating hours for visa (application & collection): 9am to 11.30am, Monday to Friday excluding public holidays

● Enquiries will be answered by email ( [email protected] ) only

Visa Exemption for Singaporeans

The visa waiver for Singaporeans is reinstated on 08 November 2021. Singaporeans seeking entry into Korea for the purpose of tourism, business, short-term study, family visitation...etc may apply for Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) at  www.k-eta.go.kr   instead of a visa.

However, in celebration of 'Visit Korea Year (2023-2024)', K-ETA will be temporarily exempted for 22 countries/regions, including Singapore, from 01 April 2023 to 31 December 2024 (KST). Please refer to this  announcement (click)  for details.

▷ Things to Note When Travelling to Korea (click)

▷ Visa requirements (click)

▷ Visa fee (click)

▷ Frequently Asked Questions (click)

▷  Related Sites

• Countries & Regions
• International Organisations (IOs)
• Climate Change
• Counter Terrorism
• Disarmament
• Cybersecurity
• International Peacekeeping
• Singapore's Voluntary National Review
• Small States
• Sustainable Development
• Pedra Branca
• Singapore Universal Periodic Review
• Water Agreements
• Find A Singapore Overseas Mission
• Foreign Representatives To Singapore
• COVID-19 Information
• Travel Tips
• Visa Information
• I Need Help Overseas
• Passport Matters
• Legalisation of Documents
• Travel Advisories and Notices
• Useful links
• Press Statements, Transcripts & Photos
• Announcements and Highlights
• Experience Singapore
• Foreign Service Officer (Functional and Corporate)
• Foreign Service Officer (Political and Economic)
• Foreign Service Administration Specialist
• Job Opportunities
• Pre-University
• Undergraduate
• Foreign Service Scholarships
• Recruitment
• Scholarship
• Reach.gov.sg

South Korea

Expand All | Collapse All

Travelling to Singapore

Travellers should refer to the  ICA website  for the latest information on travelling to/from or transiting through Singapore. For the latest updates on Singapore's COVID-19 situation, please refer to the MOH website at  https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19 .   

Entry and Exit

Singapore passport holders are not required to apply for visas for short-term entry into the Republic of Korea (less than 90 days).

Travellers intending to travel to the Republic of Korea should refer to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore’s website for the latest entry requirements.

Travellers may also refer to the Embassy of Singapore in Seoul’s  website     and Facebook  page  for the latest travel updates.

Safety and Security

Travellers should undertake the usual precautions and be responsible for your own safety. In addition, be mindful of your belongings (e.g. passports, credit cards and cash) in crowded places and areas frequented by foreigners. You may also download the free "Emergency Ready App", released by the South Korean  government  for more information on local emergency services, hospitals and emergency shelter locations.

Singaporeans should take extra precaution when hiking in the mountains, particularly at night. It would be best to go with a guide who is familiar with the route and terrain. There have been several incidents of Singaporeans getting lost in the mountains while hiking in the dark and requiring rescue assistance. 

It is mandatory for foreigners to carry their passport or alien registration card at all times. Failure to produce either of the aforementioned when asked to by law enforcement officials is a chargeable offence. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of drugs can result in long prison sentences and heavy fines. 

Additional Information

Air quality varies throughout the year, and yellow dust pollution typically peaks during Spring. Depending on the levels of pollution, the South Korean Government may advise all, particularly the elderly and those with respiratory issues, to restrict their outdoor activities. The Korea Meteorological Service Website ( http://www.kma.go.kr/eng/weather/asiandust/forecastchart.jsp ) does provide pollution related forecasts, though this is typically only available from March to May.

General Travel Advice

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

• Partner with us

To apply for a visa to South Korea, you will need to go through a few steps:

Check whether your nationality is in the list of countries that established visa-free movement regime with South Korea .

The Korean Embassy accepts applications from Singapore passport holders and foreigners holding a long-term residence in Singapore (DP, Student Pass, EP, WP and LTVP). Travellers who are seeking entry into South Korea should submit through a travel agent appointed by the Embassy. Global Singapore has been appointed by the South Korean Embassy to submit visa applications on the applicant’s behalf.

Check whether you have at least one empty page in your passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of exiting South Korea.

Choose the required visa type:

A tourist visa is granted for the purpose of tourism and leisure or visiting relatives and is valid for 3 months (single entry). For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Tourist visa requirements and fees page.

A business visa is issued for those who are invited to South Korea for business matters and is valid for 3 months (single entry). For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Business visa requirements and fees page.

A family visa is issued for those who are visiting their immediate family members who are Korean nationals for 90 days or less. For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Family visa requirements and fees page.

A short-term employment visa to South Korea is issued to foreign nationals who intend to work in Korea for 90 days or less. For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Short-term employment visa requirements and fees page.

A student visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to study in Korea on a full-time degree program / exchange program / summer or winter school program. For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Student visa requirements and fees page.

A tourist visa to South Korea is granted for a domestic helper who will be travelling to Korea with her employer for humanitarian reasons such as looking after the elderly, young children, person requiring special assistance. For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the Domestic helper visa requirements and fees page.

A general visa is issued for foreign nationals who intend to visit to Korea for conference, training, participate in a competition without receiving remuneration, etc. For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the General visa requirements and fees page.

Visa-free foreign visitors need South Korean ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) approval in order to obtain the boarding pass and to enter the Republic of Korea For additional information, fees and the list of the required documents, refer to the E-visa requirements and fees page.

Submit all the documents to us, so we can process your visa application:

• Contact us for a courier collection . Stay safe, limit your personal contacts. Email us at [email protected] in order to book a collection .
• In person at our office . Visit the Visa Appointment Booking page in order to book an appointment . Our opening hours are 9.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday. The last appointment is at 17.00.
• Send them by your own courier.

Collect or have your passport with the visa affixed delivered.

Should you have any further questions regarding a visa to South Korea after reading the information on our website, email us at [email protected] . One of our consultants will help you with the query.

• Visa Navigator Y 101
• Visa by Categories Y 101
• How to apply Y 101
• Application Form Y 101
• Visa Fees Y 101
• Entry & Stay Y 101
• Find a Diplomatic Mission Y 101
• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Y 102
• e-Visa (Individual) Y 102
• e-Form (Visa) Y 102
• Work and Visit Visa Lottery Y 102
• Change of Passport Information Y 102
• Check Application Status & Print Y 103
• Work and Visit Lottery Results Y 103
• Public Business Y 104
• Tourism and Leisure Facility Investment Immigration System Y 104
• Global Talent Visa Center Y 104
• Financial Institution Y 104
• Notice Y 104
• Notice Y 105
• Archive Y 105
• How to Use Our Website Y 105
• Survey Y 105
• Korea Visa Application Center

VISA NAVIGATOR

Go_to services.

• · e-Visa Application
• · e-Form(Visa Application)
• · Confirmation of Visa Issuance
• · Work and Visit Visa Lottery
• · Check Application Status
• · Work & Visit Lottery Results

Notice  

• Sanctions on travel agency for E-visa(2024.Aug)
• Sanctions on travel agency for E-visa(2024.Jul)
• Sanctions on travel agency for E-visa(2024.Jun)
• Do I have to visit a licensed administrative agent office to apply for Public Investor Immigrant Scheme?
• Do I have to pay any fee when it comes to applying for Public Investor Immigrant Scheme, especially for a preliminary review?
• If I invest in "Conditional Investment for F-5," will my unmarried children over 19 year-old can acquire the same type of visa?

Investment Immigration for Public Business

Visa by categories.

• · Visa Exempted (B-1)
• Tourist / Transit (General) (B-2-1)
• Tourist / Transit (Jeju) (B-2-2)
• Short-Term General (C-3-1)
• Group Tourist (C-3-2)
• Business Visitor (General) (C-3-4)
• Business Visitor (Agreement) (C-3-5)
• Business Visitor (Sponsored) (C-3-6)
• Short term Visitor (Overseas Korean) (C-3-8)
• Ordinary Tourist (C-3-9)
• Working Holiday (H-1)
• Short-Term News Coverage (C-1)
• Long-term News Coverage (D-5)
• Religious Worker (D-6)
• Cohabitee of diplomat/foreign government official (F-1-3)
• Spouse/underage children of F-4 Overseas Korean (F-1-9)
• Parents of international student (F-1-13)
• Underage children of Korean National (F-2-2)
• Spouse of permanent resident (F-2-3)
• Dependent Family (F-3-1)
• Medical Tourist (C-3-3)
• Treatment and Recuperation (G-1-10)
• Incorporated Enterprise (D-8-1)
• Business Venture (D-8-2)
• Unincorporated Enterprise (D-8-3)
• Technology and Business Startup (D-8-4)
• Intra-Company Transferee (by FTA) (D-8-91)
• Big Investor (F-5-5)
• Spouse of a Korean National (F-6-1)
• Child Raising (F-6-2)
• Associate Degree (D-2-1)
• Bachelor's Degree (D-2-2)
• Master's Degree (D-2-3)
• Doctoral Degree (D-2-4)
• Research Study (D-2-5)
• Exchange Student (D-2-6)
• Korean Language Trainee (D-4-1)
• Student (Elementary, Middle, High School) (D-4-3)
• Foreign Language Trainee (D-4-7)
• International Trade (D-9-1)
• Technician (Industrial Machinery) (D-9-2)
• Technician (Ship Building) (D-9-3)
• Individual Foreign Business Man (D-9-4)
• Korean Arts and Culture (D1-00)
• Industrial Trainee (D-3-11)
• Industrial Trainee (Technology) (D-3-12)
• Industrial Trainee (Plant) (D-3-13)
• General Trainee (Others) (D-4-2)
• Trainee Chef (Korean Cuisine) (D-4-5)
• General Trainee (Private Institute) (D-4-6)
• Short-Term Employee (C-4)
• Job Seeker (D-10-1)
• Business Startup (D-10-2)
• Professor (E-1)
• Foreign Language Instructor (General) (E-2-1)
• Teaching Assistant (E-2-2)
• Foreign Language Instructor (by FTA) (E-2-91)
• Researcher (E-3)
• Technical Instructor / Technician (E-4)
• Professional (E-5)
• Artist (E-6-1)
• Hotel and Adult Entertainment (E-6-2)
• Athlete (E-6-3)
• Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7-1)
• Independent Professional (by FTA) (E-7-91)
• Special talent (F-5-11)
• Overseas Korean (F-4-11)
• Descendant of Overseas Korean (F-4-12)
• Former D or E visa holder (F-4-13)
• University Graduates (F-4-14)
• Permanent resident of OECD country (F-4-15)
• Corporate Executive (F-4-16)
• Entrepreneur of $100,000 (F-4-17)
• Multinational Company (F-4-18)
• Representative of overseas Koreans organization (F-4-19)
• Government Employee (F-4-20)
• Teacher (F-4-21)
• Person of Age 60 or older (F-4-25)
• Manufacturing (E-9-1)
• Construction (E-9-2)
• Agriculture (E-9-3)
• Fishery (E-9-4)
• Service (E-9-5)
• Coastal Crew (E-10-1)
• Fishing ship crew (E-10-2)
• Cruise Ship Crew (E-10-3)
• Household assistant of diplomat (F-1-21)
• Household assistant of big investor (F-1-22)
• Household assistant of high-tech investor (F-1-23)
• Household assistant of professional (F-1-24)
• Intra-Company Transferee (Foreign Company) (D-7-1)
• Intra-Company Transferee (Domestic Company) (D-7-2)
• Intra-Company Transferee (by FTA) (D-7-91)
• Contractual Service Supplier (by FTA) (D-7-92)
• Work and Visit (Family Connection) (H-2-1)
• Work and Visit (Parents/Spouse of D-2 Student) (H-2-2)
• Work and Visit (By lottery) (H-2-5)
• Work and Visit (Expired visa) (H-2-7)
• Diplomacy (A-1)
• Foreign Government Official (A-2)
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Protection Policy
• Prohibition of Unauthorized Collection of E-mail Address
• Help Center

Building#1, Government Complex-Gwacheon, 47, Gwanmun-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea ( Immigration Contact Center : +82-1345 )

COPYRIGHT©MINISTRY OF JUSTICE. REPUBLIC OF KOREA. ALL RIGHT RESERVED.

※ Visa portal is optimized for IE7, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera browsers and 1024*768 pixels.

• Entering, Transiting and Departing
• Entering Singapore

Check if You Need an Entry Visa

If you hold a travel document issued by one of the countries or places listed below, you will require a valid Singapore entry visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore.

Possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore. Please refer to entry requirements for more information.

Please note the following:

• SG Arrival Card is not a visa . Please refer to SG Arrival Card e-Service  for more information.
• Valid visa holders are required to adhere to the latest travel requirements and advisories , where applicable.
• The period of stay in Singapore is not tied to the validity of your visa. The period of stay is determined by the duration of the Visit Pass issued to you in the form of electronic visit pass (e-Pass) at the checkpoint upon entry. 

To extend the duration of stay, the applicant will have to apply for a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension. For more information, please refer to Seeking Extension of Visit Pass .

A Singapore entry visa is not an immigration pass. It is a pre-entry permission for the holder of a valid visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore. The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry. The period of stay granted is not tied to the validity of your visa. ICA does not accept submission of visa application over the immigration counters. If you do not have a Local Contact with a Singpass/Corppass account, you may submit the visa application:

• Through an authorised visa agent appointed by the Singapore Overseas Missions; or
• At the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission .

Please liaise directly with the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission for detailed visa application procedure if the application is to be submitted through their authorised visa agents or at the Singapore Overseas Mission.

From 11 March 2022, all foreign visitors arriving in Singapore will be notified digitally of their Visit Pass (e-Pass) through email. There will not be any endorsement on your passport. The e-Pass notification will indicate the period of stay granted and last day of stay allowed. Please ensure that you provide a valid email address when submitting the SG Arrival Card .

If your travel document is issued by one of the countries/ places listed below, you will require a valid visa to enter Singapore. Click on individual countries/ places to find out more.

You will also need a visa if you are travelling on:

• A Refugee travel document. This travel document is subject to assessment of recognition for entry into Singapore
• An Alien's passport. This travel document is subject to assessment of recognition for entry into Singapore
• A Palestinian Authority passport
• A temporary passport issued by the United Arab Emirates
• A  Document of Identity issued by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
• A Travel Permit issued by Macao Special Administrative Region
• A PRC Travel Document

You may contact us via the enquiry form  with a copy of your travel document biodata page and front cover for further assistance and verification. 

Visa Free Transit Facilities

Nationals of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Georgia, India, Turkmenistan and Ukraine; as well as Nationals of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) holding other travel documents issued by the PRC* (excluding ordinary, diplomatic, public affairs and service passports) may be eligible for the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF). Please refer to Visa-Free Transit Facility for more information.

*These include the PRC Travel Document, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Document of Identity (DOI) and Macau SAR Travel Permit.

• Interactive Map

GNB menu Open Search box Show

• Visit KOREA Instagram
• Visit KOREA Twitter
• Visit KOREA Facebook
• Visit KOREA Youtube

Interactive Map GNB menu Open Search box Show

Weather 08-26-2024

Seoul/Gyeonggi-do/Incheon

Temperatures

Exchange Rates Travel Calendar

Sign in as a member

Link one of the following accounts to sign in as a VisitKorea member

Notice on Gathering Information

Done Cancel

Enter your personal information from the list below.

Field of Interest

※Pick at least three fields of interest.

• Accommodations
• Transportation
• History / Tradition
• Urban travel
• Festivals / Performances / Events
• Leisure / Sports
• Entertainment / Arts
• Theme parks

Home KTO Overseas Offices Singapore

What's Happening

• [Job Opening] Junior MICE Manager
• [Job Opening] Admin & Events Executive
• [Job Opening] Korea Plaza Guest Service Officer

Overseas Offices

• Kuala Lumpur

South Korea Visa Requirements

Documents you need to entry to the republic of korea.

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, you need to understand the entry requirements .

South Korean entry requirements depend on:

• Your nationality
• How long you’ll stay
• The reason for your visit

You can use the information on this page to find out what you need for your trip.

Documents You Need to Travel to South Korea

To travel to South Korea, all foreign nationals need:

• Visa or K-ETA

You cannot board a flight or ship to South Korea without these essential documents.

Korean Entry Requirements for Your Nationality

Passport holders from more than 100 countries can travel to South Korea with a K-ETA . It’s quicker and easier to obtain an electronic travel authorization than a visa.

These are some of the countries eligible for the K-ETA. The maximum number of days you can stay in South Korea with a K-ETA is shown.

• Andorra (30)
• Argentina (30)
• Australia* (90)
• Austria* (90)
• Belgium* (90)
• Brazil (90)
• Brunei (30)
• Canada* (180)
• Colombia (90)
• Costa Rica (90)
• Croatia (90)
• Cyprus (30)
• Czech Republic (90)
• Denmark (90 days in 180-day period)
• Dominica (90)
• Dominican Republic (90)
• Finland (90 days in 180-day period)
• France* (90)
• Germany* (90)
• Greece (90)
• Guatemala (90)
• Honduras (30)
• Hong Kong* (90)
• Hungary (90)
• Iceland (90 days in 180-day period)
• Ireland (90)
• Israel (30)
• Italy* (90)
• Jamaica (90)
• Japan* (90)
• Lithuania (90)
• Luxembourg (90)
• Malaysia (90)
• Mexico (90)
• Netherlands (90)
• New Zealand* (90)
• Nicaragua (90)
• Norway (90 days in 180-day period)
• Poland (90)
• Portugal (90 days in 180-day period)
• Romania (90)
• Russia (60/90 days in 180-day period)
• San Marino (30)
• Saudi Arabia (30)
• Serbia (90)
• Singapore* (90)
• South Africa (30)
• Spain* (90)
• Switzerland (90)
• Taiwan* (90)
• Thailand (90)
• Turkey (90)
• Tuvalu (30)
• United Arab Emirates (90)
• United Kingdom* (90)
• United States* (90)
• Uruguay (90)
• Venezuela (90)

(*)The K-ETA is not currently mandatory for nationals of this country but you can still apply. If you have a K-ETA you do not need to submit an Arrival Card allowing for a faster border crossing.

If your country is not on this list, contact us to find out whether you are eligible.

South Korea Tourist Visa Requirements

Foreigners need to apply for a tourist visa for South Korea if they are not eligible to travel with a K-ETA . A tourist visa for Korea is required if the visitor:

Is not from a visa-exempt nation

Wishes to stay longer than the time permitted with the ETA (usually 90 days)

Does not meet all of the other ETA requirements for South Korea

In these cases, visa-free entry is not permitted. Tourists must instead begin a South Korea travel visa application through the embassy or consulate.

Nationalities that need a tourist visa for South Korea

If you are not eligible for K-ETA, you need a tourist visa to travel to South Korea short term.

Some of the countries with visa requirements for Korea include:

• Philippines

Travelers who need a visa should contact the Republic of Korea embassy or consulate.

It takes longer to apply for a South Korea visa than an ETA. If you need a visa based on your nationality, get started with your application well ahead of your trip.

Passport requirements to travel to Korea

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in South Korea. You should also have at least 1 blank passport page for the entry stamp.

If your passport is about to expire, you should renew it before applying for a K-ETA. The electronic travel authorization is only valid with the passport you use to apply. The details on your ETA must match your passport exactly.

What You Need to Stay in South Korea Long-Term

You need to apply for a visa to go to South Korea for a long stay. All foreign nationals need a South Korean visa to stay long-term, regardless of nationality.

There are several different types of South Korean visa available including for:

• Medical treatment
• Work and job seekers
• Study and training
• International trade

You’ll need to meet all the visa requirements to apply. You must enter Korea for the purposes stated on your visa and abide by the visa conditions.

Health Requirements for South Korea

You need to meet the health requirements to travel to South Korea. Speak to a medical professional a few weeks before your trip and get any vaccinations you may need for Korea.

COVID-19 health requirements for South Korea have ended. You do not need vaccine certificates or a pre-departure test to travel .

Entering South Korea: Immigration Requirements

As well as your passport, you need these documents to clear Korean immigration.

• Arrival Card : You do not need to submit an arrival card if you’re traveling with a K-ETA . This entry requirement applies to visa holders only.
• Customs declaration form : All passengers need to fill out a customs declaration form for South Korea. If you’re entering Korea with your family, you can submit just one form. If you’re arriving in Korea via Incheon International Airport (ICN) Terminal 2 or Gimpo International Airport (GMP) you can complete the customs declaration online before you depart.

Note that holding these documents does not guarantee entry to South Korea. Korean border officials have the right to grant or deny entry based on immigration laws.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

South Korea Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: March 29, 2024

South Korea’s visa policy is generally simple but has a couple of exceptions and specific rules that allow visa-free access where otherwise a visa would be necessary.

The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) was introduced in September 2021 and is now mandatory for all travelers without visas 18 or older and 65 or younger. This means there is no true visa exemption anymore. However, some nationalities are exempt from the K-ETA until 31 December 2024.

In this article, I will guide you through South Korea visa requirements, K-ETA, tourist visas and exceptions.

Table of Contents

Visa policy and visa types.

Passport holders from 110 countries do not need a visa to travel to South Korea. Unless temporarily exempt, all visa-exempt nationals between 18 and 64 (inclusive) must have a pre-approved K-ETA to travel to South Korea.

There are also various provisions for short-term visa exemptions for other nationalities:

• 30-day visa exemption for holders of visas or residence permits from select countries and in transit to a third country
• 30-day visa waiver for Jeju Island if arriving by direct flight
• 15-day visa exemption for tour groups visiting various regions in Korea
• Tours around Seoul if in transit

In all other circumstances, a tourist visa is required to enter Korea.

South Korea doesn’t issue Visa on Arrival (VOA) or eVisa for tourists.

South Korea Visa Requirements 

• Passport’s expiry date must be after the intended departure date (no extended validity required)
• Return or onward ticket
• K-ETA if visa-exempt (unless temporarily waived)

Visa Exemption (K-ETA Required)

South Korea introduced its form of Electronic Travel Authorization called K-ETA in September 2021. K-ETA is now MANDATORY for all visitors who are exempt from visas. Some nationalities are temporarily exempt until 31 December 2024.

K-ETA eligibility

110 nationalities are visa-exempt. The duration of stay varies from 30 days to 6 months. You must obtain K-ETA before traveling (unless your nationality is exempt until 31 December 2024 ).

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan #
• Marshall Islands
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• Vatican City

* Total stay must not exceed 90 days within any 180 days # Total stay must not exceed 60 days within any 180 days

K-ETA validity 

The K-ETA is valid for 3 years from the date of approval but cannot be longer than the validity of the applicant’s passport.

Applications submitted before 3 July 2023 only received 2-year validity.

The K-ETA costs 10.000 KRW (~8$), payable by card during the online application. A 3% card processing fee is levied, bringing the total to 10.300 KRW.

K-ETA application

You can apply for the K-ETA online on the only official website – the K-ETA Application Portal . Beware of agents and intermediaries posing for official sources.

All you need is your passport, a valid email address, and a debit or credit card.

K-ETA processing time

The processing time of the K-ETA is usually at most 72 hours but can be longer in rare instances.

K-ETA exemption based on age

Everybody younger than 18 years is exempt from the K-ETA. Everybody 65 or older is exempt too.

For more information, read the South Korea K-ETA article for details on the documents required, the application process and current K-ETA exempted countries (until 31 Dec 2024).

Visa Exemption (Jeju Island Visa Waiver)

Jeju Island has its own visa waiver provisions to boost tourism to South Korea’s most popular holiday destination.

Below are the key requirements for Jeju Island visa waiver provision:

• All nationalities except the below 23 are eligible for Jeju Island visa exemption
• Jeju Island visa exemption is valid for 30 days only for the province
• Visitors must enter and depart Jeju via direct flight (i.e. without stopping in any other part of South Korea).
• Visa-exempt but K-ETA-required nationalities must still obtain K-ETA unless temporarily exempt

Ineligible countries

Jeju Island visa exemption is not available for these 23 countries:

• Afghanistan

The above 23 countries also become eligible if they:

• Have a Certificate of Invitation issued by the Jeju Government or Jeju Island Immigration Office (OR)
• Hold a permanent residence permit from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, or USA AND have previously visited South Korea 3 times since 1996 or once since 2006

Visa Exemption (Visa Holders of Third Countries)

You’re eligible for a 30-day visa exemption if you have a visa or a residence permit from one of the following countries :

You MUST also meet ONE of the following requirements:

• You arrive in South Korea from one of these countries and depart for a third country
• You arrive in South Korea from a third country and depart to one of these countries
• You arrive in South Korea from one of these countries and have transited in a fourth country for less than 72 hours before entering South Korea. You then depart for a third country.
• You arrive in South Korea from a third country, then depart for one of these countries, and will transit to a fourth country for less than 72 hours.

Visa Exemption (Transit Tours at Seoul’s Incheon Airport)

If you’re in transit at Seoul’s Incheon International for less than 24 hours (which is the limit anyway), you’re eligible for any of the free tours around Seoul.

The tours range in price from free to $150 golf courses although most are cheaper than $5. They range from 1 hour to 5 hours in duration.

You can check out the tours and book online via the Incheon Airport website .

Upon arrival, go to the Information desks at either terminal to get routed to your tour.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country but require K-ETA, you must still obtain K-ETA (unless temporarily exempt) for transit tours at Incheon Airport. 

The following 23 countries are not eligible for transit tours:

Visa Exemption (Tour Groups)

Various visa exemptions exist for organized tour groups.

Gangwon-do Region

A 15-day visa exemption for Gangwon-do and Seoul Metropolitan Area is available to tour groups from:

• Philippines

This is only if flying in and out of Yangyang International Airport until May 30, 2024.

Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, Jeju-do Regions

A 15-day visa exemption for these regions is available to tour groups from:

This is only if flying in and out of Muan International Airport until March 31, 2024.

Traveling to Jeju via Seoul, Busan, Cheongju, Muan, or Yangyang

This exemption is only available to Chinese tour groups.

It allows stays on the mainland of South Korea for up to 5 days followed by up to 15 days on Jeju Island.

Tourist Visa from the Embassy

Visitors seeking a tourist visa must obtain it from a South Korean embassy. None of the available e-visas are for short-term tourism visits.

The standard visa for tourism is C-3-9 (Ordinary Tourist).

Requirements

• Visa Application Form #17 (fill it out online)
• Passport valid for the duration of stay
• A standard-size color photo
• Proof of enough funds for the duration of stay in Korea
• Complete Visa Application Form online
• Submit and pay
• Receive an invitation for the interview
• Visit the chosen embassy and conduct the interview
• Check results online
• Download and print visa.

For more information, read the South Korea tourist visa article for details on visa validity, documentation, fee and application procedure.

Benefits of South Korea tourist visa

South Korea visa may not be the strongest, but it does come with VISA-FREE access to a handful of countries. In 2024, you can travel to about 8 countries with a South Korean visa. Read the article on  VISA-FREE countries for South Korea visa for more details.

Transit Visa

If you’re not leaving the airport’s transit zone (i.e. not clearing immigration) you do not need a visa or a K-ETA under the condition that:

• Incheon Airport (Seoul): You depart within 24 hours;
• All other airports: You depart on the same calendar day.

If you will be passing through immigration, you must obtain a transit visa, K-ETA or utilize visa exemption as part of one of the transit tours. 

South Korea Arrival Card

Tourists arriving in South Korea have to fill out and submit an arrival card. This is a standard procedure in many countries and chances are that you will be given a card already in the airplane.

If you hold a K-ETA, you’re automatically exempt from having to complete and submit an arrival card.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should i apply for k-eta for my children.

Provided your children are 17 years old or younger, it is not necessary to apply for K-ETA for them.

Should I apply for K-ETA if I have a tourist visa?

No. If you have a visa for South Korea you don’t need to submit K-ETA. The K-ETA is only for visa-exempt nationalities.

Do I need a new K-ETA for every visit to Korea?

No. The K-ETA is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. As long as it’s valid, you don’t need to apply for a new one.

Do I need a K-ETA to travel to Jeju Island?

Yes. Even though Jeju has special visa waivers, you still need to submit a K-ETA.

How much money should I have when I apply for a South Korean tourist visa?

Embassies do not disclose this information and it depends. Travelers have been saying that you need to have a minimum of 150$ per day in your bank account.

Do I need proof of COVID vaccination or a COVID test before traveling to South Korea?

Currently, South Korea does not require any COVID-19 vaccination certificates, testing, or quarantine for entry.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED STATES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

Your client portal login provides access to your organization’s preferred pricing and customized features

• About Us CIBTvisas Global Offices Immigration Services CIBTvisas Global Leadership CIBTvisas Careers Contact CIBTvisas
• Travel Visas Do I need a visa? Expedited Visa Solutions Travel Visa FAQs Corporate Travel Solutions
• Passports Same Day Passport Passport Renewal Child Passport Passport FAQs
• Document Services
• Resources Latest Entry Requirements By Destination Travel and Immigration Blog Informed Traveler: custom info about entry, health, and quarantine
• Services Global Immigration Services Singapore Immigration CIBTvisas Service Directory Learn More About Our Services Corporations Cruise Lines Tour Operators Onsite Services All Partner Solutions Learn More About Our Client Solutions
• Your Order Check Order Status View Invoice Upload Documents

Get a Korea Visa

Business travel requirements for an korea - south visa for singapore citizens, eta eligibility.

Travelers attending unpaid business meetings or business conferences may apply for a Business ETA. Please return to our homepage and select "Business Electronic" from our list of travel purposes.

Travelers engaged in profit-making activities must apply for a traditional business visa. Please follow the instructions below to obtain your business visa

Photograph(s)

You must provide a photograph. Upload your photo and we will print it to the exact specifications required for this visa. Follow https://cibtvisas.sg/photo-service to upload your photo.

Alternatively, you may provide one colour, passport-type photograph that meets the following strict criteria: be taken within the last three months against an all-white background and printed on high-quality photo paper; be 45 mm by 35 mm; provide the full frontal view of your head with your face centered in the middle and displaying a neutral (non-smiling) expression. You may wear neither eyeglasses nor headwear except for religious purposes. Your photo should be glued to the designated section of the visa application form (in the absence of a designated area, affix to the top right or top left corner).

Business Introduction Letter

Letter of invitation.

You must submit a letter of invitation from the company you are visiting. A copy is acceptable. This letter must:

• Be on company letterhead paper
• Address the consulate in Singapore
• Include the name of the applicant
• State the purpose of journey
• Specify whether a multiple entry visa or a single entry visa is needed

If you are staying with a family member, a relative or a friend and therefore is not able to provide a hotel confirmation, a copy of the Invitation Letter must be provided by your host. This letter must:

• Be addressed to the embassy
• Include the full address and contact details of the host
• Specify the purpose and duration of stay Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
• Be signed by the applicant's host

Certificate of Registration of Company (ROC)

Copy of passport identification page, visa application form, cibtvisas - order confirmation, multiple entry visa requirements.

To be considered for a multiple entry business visa, applicants must:

• Provide copies of a previous visa for South Korea issued in Singapore - If the previous visa is in an old passport, the old passport must be submitted together with the current passport and current visa application. The previous visa should have been issued no more than one year from the date of visa application
• Ensure that all documents (visa application form, business introduction letter and invitation letter) request the issuance of a multiple entry business visa

Tourist Travel Requirements for an Korea - South Visas for Singapore Citizens

Eligibility and documentation.

The Government of South Korea utilises an electronic travel authorization (ETA) issuance system. The ETA is an electronic authorization issued by the government granting entry into South Korea. It is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport.

To be eligible the traveller must:

• Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
• Hold proof of sufficient funds
• Hold proof of onward/return flights
• Hold proof of hotel reservation
• Hold all documents required for the next destination

To complete the order form the traveller must provide:

• A photograph
• A copy of the passport information page

Apply now and complete our order form providing basic travel and personal details. We'll take care of the rest keeping you apprised of your order's progress over email.

Applicants Under the Age of 18 or Over 64

News and alerts.

India Biometrics Registration: The Indian Consulate now requires biometric data from most visa applicants and this data must be submitted at the Indian Visa Application Centre. CIBTvisas is pleased to announce the launch of a new service designed to make the securing of an Indian visa as simple as possible. We ensure that everything you need for the visas is correct and provide you access to biometric appointment times available only to CIBTvisas customers.

Premium Service

Let our team of experts make your visa application quick and easy. From one-on-one consultations, timely reminders, and step-by-step assistance, you can rest easy knowing our visa experts will help you get your application and documentation right the first time.

Informed Traveler

Informed traveler provides the critical insight you need to travel safely and securely during the COVID pandemic. A trained specialist will review your entire trip and deliver accurate up-to-date information on entry requirements, health regulations, quarantine protocols, what to expect when you arrive in your destination, and what you need to know for your return trip.

• Travel Visas

CIBT Around the World

• netherlands
• switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States

Top Destinations

• Vietnam Visa
• Australia Visa
• Indonesia Visa
• +65 6603 1096
• Learn More About Our Client Solutions
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Copyright 2024