Index:
Do you need a visa to visit South Korea?
What is K-ETA?
How to submit a K-ETA application?
What documents are needed for a K-ETA application?
How much does a K-ETA application cost?
Do you need a visa to visit South Korea?
Turkish citizens can visit South Korea without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for purposes such as tourism, cultural activities, visiting family members, and qualifying business trips. However, visa-free entry does not necessarily mean you can travel without completing any additional requirements. Turkish citizens holding ordinary (maroon) or special (green) passports generally need to receive K-ETA approval before departure, unless they qualify for an exemption. Those traveling with diplomatic or official (service) passports do not need a K-ETA.
Age is another factor that may determine whether you need this authorization. Anyone aged 17 or younger or 65 or older on the date of entry into South Korea is exempt from the K-ETA requirement. Families traveling together should check the applicable rules for each person separately.
Different rules apply if you intend to work, study in South Korea for an extended period, or move there. In these cases, you should check the visa category and entry conditions that correspond to your reason for traveling, as the rules for short-term visits may not apply.
What is K-ETA?
K-ETA is short for Korea Electronic Travel Authorization. It is an electronic system that checks the passport and travel details of foreign nationals who are eligible to enter South Korea without a visa before they travel.
Keep in mind that a K-ETA is not the same as a visa. Even after receiving approval, you are not automatically guaranteed entry into South Korea. Immigration officers make the final decision when you arrive at the border. If you are required to hold a K-ETA, you must receive approval before boarding your flight or ship.
How to submit a K-ETA application?
You can apply for a K-ETA through the official website or mobile application. Before you start, it is useful to have your passport and accommodation details nearby so you can enter the required information without difficulty.
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Open the official application page. Read and accept the terms of use to proceed.
- Complete the registration or email verification process. You can create an account or continue by verifying your email address without registering for an account.
- Provide your passport details. Enter your first name, surname, date of birth, and passport number exactly as they appear in your passport.
- Fill out the application form. Upload a suitable photograph and complete the requested information about your trip.
- Check your details and pay the fee. Carefully review your name and passport number before submitting the payment.
- Follow your application status. Sending your application does not mean it has automatically been approved, so check the result before traveling.
You can submit your application and check its progress through the official K-ETA website.
What documents are needed for a K-ETA application?
Prepare the necessary documents and information before opening the application form. Having everything ready can make the process more straightforward.
You will need the following:
- A valid passport: Use the details of the passport you plan to present when entering South Korea.
- A recent digital photo: Your face must be clearly visible, and the image must comply with the technical requirements displayed in the application.
- An email address: Provide an address that you can access throughout the application process.
- A payment card: You will need a card that supports online payment of the application fee.
It is also a good idea to keep your South Korean accommodation address and contact details available, as you may need them when completing the form.
How much does a K-ETA application cost?
The K-ETA application fee is 10,000 South Korean won (KRW) for each applicant. According to the official fee information, this is approximately US$7–8. An additional online payment processing charge may apply, generally amounting to around 3% of the fee, according to the official documentation. Before paying, check that your bank card is enabled for international transactions to help prevent payment problems. The application fee covers the assessment process and is non-refundable. You will not receive a refund if your application is rejected.
What is the K-ETA processing time and validity period?
K-ETA applications are usually processed within 72 hours. However, some applications may take longer because of a high volume of submissions or additional individual checks. For this reason, it is best to apply with enough time before your departure rather than waiting until the last moment. There is no official expedited service that allows you to receive the result faster.
Once approved, a K-ETA is generally valid for three years. If your passport expires before the end of this period, your authorization will expire on the same date. During its validity, you can use the K-ETA for multiple trips to South Korea.
It is important to distinguish between the validity of your authorization and the length of time you can stay in the country. A K-ETA valid for three years does not permit you to stay in South Korea continuously for that entire period. Turkish citizens can generally stay in the country for up to 90 days per entry without a visa.
Frequently asked questions
Do Turkish citizens with green passports need a K-ETA?
Yes. Holders of special (green) passports generally need K-ETA approval before traveling to South Korea unless they qualify for an exemption, such as the exemption for certain age groups.
Do children need their own K-ETA application?
Travelers who are 17 or younger on the day they enter South Korea are exempt from the K-ETA requirement. Anyone who is at least 18 on the date of entry must apply if they do not qualify for another exemption.
Can I continue using my K-ETA after renewing my passport?
No. If you receive a new passport, you must submit a fresh K-ETA application using the new passport information, even if your existing authorization is still within its validity period.
What if my accommodation address or travel dates change?
If any of your travel details change, update the relevant information through the designated section of the official website. Make sure your accommodation address, contact details, and expected arrival and departure dates remain accurate.
What should I do if my K-ETA application is rejected?
You can apply for a visa that matches your travel purpose through the appropriate Korean diplomatic mission if your K-ETA application is refused. Reapplying for K-ETA is also possible, but the number of applications may be restricted. Submitting three applications within six months may result in a temporary block on further applications. Before trying again, review the details you submitted and consider whether applying for a visa would be more suitable.
Do I need to complete an arrival card if I have an approved K-ETA?
Travelers entering South Korea with a valid K-ETA are exempt from completing an arrival card. However, people who do not need a K-ETA because of their age or passport category must generally complete an arrival card unless another exemption applies. You can fill out the electronic arrival card (e-Arrival Card) free of charge through the official website within three days before arriving in South Korea.
Do I need to submit a Q-CODE when entering South Korea?
South Korea’s health declaration requirements can change depending on your recent travel history and health condition. As of October 2026, Türkiye is included among the countries covered by South Korea’s health screening protocols. Travelers arriving from Türkiye who show symptoms of certain infectious diseases must report their condition through the Q-CODE system or by completing a health declaration form. Before departure, check the official Q-CODE website to confirm the requirements that apply to your trip.
