Korea Extends K-ETA Exemption Through End of 2026

South Korea's justice ministry has extended the temporary K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) exemption for another year, covering January 1 through December 31, 2026, Korea time. The exemption applies only to nationalities and regions already eligible before the extension; no new countries have been added.

The move simply continues the existing arrangement, allowing citizens of already-eligible countries to enter Korea without obtaining K-ETA approval in advance. The exact number of exempt countries could not be confirmed, as figures differ between sources, with some citing 22 and others 67, and the official notice itself does not list the countries covered.

Checking eligibility

Travelers must verify their own eligibility through the official K-ETA portal. During the application process, scanning the passport information page or selecting one's nationality will trigger a 'K-ETA Exempt' pop-up if the traveler qualifies. Without going through this step, it is not possible to confirm exemption status.

Arrival card waiver requires separate application

Even exempt travelers who also want to skip submitting the electronic arrival card must apply separately for that benefit. This application carries a fee, reportedly 10,000 won (about 8 dollars) according to one secondary source, and the fee is non-refundable.

Travelers with existing K-ETA approval

Those who have already obtained a K-ETA approval can continue using it until it expires, regardless of the exemption. There is no need to reapply.

A temporary measure, not a permanent change

The exemption remains a temporary measure set to expire on December 31, 2026. No plans beyond that date appear in the current notice, and the rules could change at any time.

Even travelers from exempt countries should confirm their current status on the official portal shortly before departure.

Sources: Korean justice ministry notice on K-ETA exemption extension (posted by the Korean Embassy in Austria, January 5, 2026), official K-ETA portal, secondary sources. This information is current as of October 2026, may change, and should be confirmed before travel.