Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Incheon, Korea, South

1. Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Electronic travel authorization required for citizens of certain countries before entering South Korea. Simplifies the visa application process.

Online Application: Can be applied and approved online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.
Single-entry Validity: Allows a single entry into South Korea for a short stay (usually up to 30 days).
Multiple Nationalities Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries can apply, regardless of their nationality.

Some nationalities are exempt from a visa when staying less than 90 days. Check if your country is included.

Short-term Stay Exemption: Allows certain nationals to enter South Korea without a visa for short visits.
No Prior Notification Required: No need to notify the authorities before arrival in South Korea, as long as you meet the conditions.
Variety of Eligible Countries: A list of eligible countries is regularly updated on the Korean Immigration Service website.

Certain travelers can transit through Incheon International Airport without a visa for up to 72 hours.

Specified Countries Eligibility: Applies only to citizens of specified countries with valid connections.
Time Limitation: Allows a maximum transit stay of 72 hours within the airport premises.
Connection Requirement: Must have an onward connection to another international destination after the transit period.

Foreigners traveling without a visa can obtain one upon arrival at Incheon International Airport.

Cash Payment Required: Payment must be made in cash (US dollars or Korean won) upon arrival.
Validity Duration: Typically grants a single-entry stay for up to 30 days.
Limited Eligibility: Not all nationalities are eligible for the visa-on-arrival program.

Allows travelers to visit Incheon's tourist attractions during a layover without leaving the airport premises.

Prearranged Tour Packages: Tour packages can be booked in advance for hassle-free travel.
Limited Duration Stay: The tour is limited to a specific duration, typically around 6 hours.
Transit Eligibility: Only travelers with a valid transit without visa or visa-on-arrival are eligible for the program.

Allows foreigners to stay in South Korea for an extended period (up to 2 years) for tourism purposes.

Purpose Verification: Proof of sufficient funds and return ticket required.
Extension Possibility: Can be extended after expiration if necessary.
Multiple-entry Validity: Grants multiple entries into South Korea during the visa validity period.

Allows foreigners to enter South Korea for business activities, such as conferences, negotiations, and training.

Specific Purpose Requirement: Must have a specific business purpose for entering South Korea.
Invitation Letter Needed: An invitation letter from the Korean entity involved in the business activities is usually required.
Duration of Stay: Allows a stay of up to 90 days, extendable for certain cases.

Allows young adults (18-30 years old) to travel, work and experience the culture in South Korea.

Age Limitations: Applies only to citizens aged between 18 and 30.
Work Opportunities: Provides work opportunities during the stay in South Korea.
Duration of Stay: Grants a stay of up to one year, with potential for extension.

Allows foreigners to enter South Korea for the purpose of studying at a Korean educational institution.

Acceptance Letter Required: An acceptance letter from a Korean university or language school is usually required.
Financial Support Verification: Proof of sufficient funds to support the duration of studies in South Korea is needed.
Language Proficiency Test: A language proficiency test (e.g., TOPIK or TOEFL) may be required, depending on the level of education.

Allows foreigners to work permanently in South Korea for a Korean employer.

Work Permit Needed: A work permit is required, which can be issued by the Korean government.
Specific Job Requirement: The job offer must meet certain requirements and be in a field where foreign workers are needed.
Residency Status: Grants permanent residency status, making it easier to renew the work visa.

Allows foreign spouses and children of South Korean citizens or permanent residents to enter and reside in the country.

Marriage Certificate Required: A marriage certificate is usually required as proof of relationship.
Residency Status Verification: Proof of the South Korean citizen's or permanent resident's residency status in Korea.
Dependent Children Eligibility: Eligible for dependent children under a certain age.

Allows foreign investors to enter South Korea and invest in approved businesses or real estate.

Minimum Investment Amount: A minimum investment amount is required for the visa eligibility.
Business Approval Required: The business or real estate investment must be approved by Korean authorities.
Visa Validity Period: Valid for the duration of the investment or until the expiration of the visa, whichever comes first.

Allows foreign journalists to enter South Korea for the purpose of reporting on the country.

Work Permit Needed: A work permit is required, which can be issued by the Korean government.
Accreditation Required: An accreditation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or relevant Korean authorities may be needed.
Stay Duration: Allows a stay of up to one year, extendable for certain cases.

Allows foreign artists, performers, and cultural workers to enter South Korea for the purpose of participating in cultural activities.

Work Permit Needed: A work permit is required, which can be issued by the Korean government.
Cultural Event Approval Required: The cultural event or activity must be approved by relevant Korean authorities.
Stay Duration: Allows a stay of up to one year, extendable for certain cases.

Allows foreigners seeking refuge or asylum in South Korea to enter the country.

Refugee Status Verification: Verification of refugee status is required for eligibility.
Temporary Protection or Resettlement: Provides temporary protection or resettlement options for refugees in South Korea.
Assistance and Support Services: Offers assistance and support services to refugees during their stay in South Korea.