South Korea
Visa & Immigration
Last verified August 7, 2026
Written for U.S. passport holders
Common Entry Types
- Visa exemption (K-ETA currently suspended)
- As a U.S. citizen, you can enter South Korea visa-free for tourism or short-term business, for up to 90 days. South Korea normally requires K-ETA (a pre-travel authorization) for visa-exempt visitors, but that requirement is temporarily suspended for U.S. citizens through December 31, 2026. You still need to complete the free e-Arrival Card online within 72 hours of arrival, even while K-ETA itself is suspended.
Overstay Consequences
- Overstaying is an offense that can lead to fines, and in more serious or repeated cases, detention and deportation.
- An overstay record can affect eligibility for future entry, including future K-ETA approval once that requirement resumes.
Renewal Path
- 1Extensions of a short-term visa-exempt stay are handled by the Korea Immigration Service and are not routine. Approval depends on your circumstances and generally requires applying before your permitted stay expires.
- 2K-ETA becomes mandatory again on January 1, 2027, at which point airlines will enforce it at check-in. A fresh application will be required for any trip after that date.
The Gotcha
Right now, U.S. citizens don't need K-ETA to visit South Korea, but that's a temporary suspension, not a permanent policy change, and it's currently scheduled to end December 31, 2026. If you're planning a trip for early 2027, don't assume the current 'no K-ETA needed' status still applies. Check k-eta.go.kr before you travel.
Sources
This page was drafted from the primary sources below. Rules change, so check the linked page directly before relying on any of this.
- Official Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (Korea Immigration Service)
- Notice on Extension of K-ETA Temporary Exemption (through 12/31/2026) (Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Atlanta)