IMPACT — MEDIUM

The South Korean government has announced that it will temporarily exempt travelers from 22 countries from the K-ETA requirement.

Key Points:

  • Beginning April 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, travelers from 22 countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore and many EU countries, will no longer need to apply for K-ETA before entering the country.
  • A full list of countries whose travelers are exempt from K-ETA is available here; travelers from 89 countries, including Ireland, Mexico, Russia, South Africa and Switzerland, must apply for K-ETA before traveling to South Korea.
  • Travelers from countries exempt from K-ETA are still allowed to apply for it to receive benefits such as not having to submit an arrival card upon entering the country.
  • K-ETA will remain valid for travelers from exempt countries who have already received approval.

BAL Analysis: South Korean authorities announced that they will exempt 22 countries from the K-ETA requirement to promote tourism by simplifying entry processes for foreign nationals wanting to travel to the country.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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