Guide to the Entry Process for Foreign Tourists to Korea

Dear Travelers,
Whether you're planning to stroll through Seoul’s modern streets, explore the coastal charm of Busan, or immerse yourself in the volcanic wonders of Jeju Island, a smooth entry is the perfect start to your Korea journey.
This guide focuses on the key entry needs of foreign tourists, offering up-to-date 2025 policies and step-by-step procedures. From pre-departure document preparation and airport immigration to useful arrival tips, it's tailored for travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, China, and the Philippines.

1.Pre-Departure Checklist: 2 Must-Do Tasks

Check Whether You Need a Visa or K-ETA

Prepare in advance according to your nationality:
✅ Visa-Free Entry with K-ETA
Eligible for: Travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia (stay ≤ 90 days)

How to Apply:
📍 Official Website: K-ETA Application Site

Fee: 10,000 KRW (approx. USD 7.5)
Processing Time: Up to 72 hours (apply at least 3 days in advance)
Important: Your name and passport number must match exactly with your passport — any error may result in rejection!

📌 Visa Required
For travelers from: China (excluding Jeju-only trips), the Philippines, etc.

Visa Types:

• China: Short-Term Tourist Visa (C-3-9), or apply via designated travel agencies
• Philippines: Visa application must be made in advance at the Korean Embassy or Consulate in the Philippines

✅ Jeju Island Visa-Free Entry
Chinese tourists can stay up to 30 days visa-free when flying directly to Jeju Island
(Transfers to other Korean cities are not permitted)

From December 13, 2024 to December 31, 2025, travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, and Singapore are exempt from applying for K-ETA and can enter South Korea with a valid passport only.

2. Prepare Your Entry Documents Checklist

Required Documents:

• Passport (valid for more than 6 months)
• Visa or K-ETA approval (printed or screenshot on your phone)
• Return flight ticket and hotel reservation (may be randomly checked)

Recommended Items:

• Korean won cash or an international credit card (some small stores only accept cash)
• Korean SIM card or international roaming (available at the airport)
• Power adapter (Korea uses Type C/F plugs, voltage 220V)

Part 2. Arrival in Korea: 4 Steps at the Airport

1. Quarantine Checkpoint (Approx. 5 mins)

• No fever (<37.5°C) and no symptoms: proceed directly.
• If symptomatic or with fever: free on-site antigen test (positive results require 7-day self-funded isolation).

2. Immigration Inspection (Approx. 20–40 mins)

Process：

1.Queue at the Foreigner lane (marked “Foreigner”).

2.Present your passport and visa/K-ETA approval.

3.Submit fingerprints and facial photo (required for first-time visitors).

FAQs:
Q: What questions might I be asked upon entry?
A: You’ll typically be asked about the purpose of your visit and your address in Korea. Your itinerary might also be randomly checked, so it’s recommended to prepare an English or Korean version in advance.

3. Baggage Claim (Approx. 20 minutes)

• After passing immigration, follow the signs and screen information to find the baggage carousel for your flight. To avoid taking someone else's luggage by mistake, be sure to double-check the baggage tag before leaving.

4. Customs Declaration (5 minutes)
   

All travelers must go through customs declaration upon entry. One declaration form can be used per family, but solo travelers need to fill out one form each.

Before exiting customs, submit the form to airport staff. If you have no items to declare, you can skip the form and proceed. However, if you are carrying items over the duty-free allowance, you must go to the customs counter to complete the necessary procedures.

Prohibited Items: Meat, fruits, seeds (including vacuum-packed), excessive medication (prescription drugs require proof).

Must Declare: Cash over USD 10,000, luxury goods (e.g., designer watches, branded bags).

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do travelers with passports from Taiwan/Hong Kong/Singapore/Malaysia need to apply for K-ETA?
No. From December 13, 2024, to December 31, 2025, travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, and Singapore are exempt from K-ETA. A valid passport is sufficient to enter Korea.

Q2: Can Chinese travelers transit through Seoul to reach Jeju Island?
No. Jeju Island’s visa-free policy only applies to direct flights. Transit via Seoul requires a Korean visa.

Q3: Can Filipino passport holders get a visa on arrival?
No. A visa must be obtained in advance. It is recommended to apply at least two weeks before your trip.