South Korea
Moderate — regularly checked by airlinesSouth Korea welcomed 16.36 million international tourists in 2024, a 48% increase from 2023. China, Japan, and Taiwan are the top three source markets, followed by the United States.
South Korea requires proof of return or onward travel for all visitors entering on a visa exemption. Airlines systematically verify this document before boarding, and immigration officers at Incheon International Airport may also request it upon arrival. Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island attract millions of international travelers each year, and K-pop culture, Korean cuisine, and the Korean Wave continue to drive global tourism to record-breaking heights with over 16 million visitors in 2024.
Updated on March 2026
Visa Requirements
South Korea offers a 90-day visa exemption for nationals of many countries, including France, the EU, the United States, and Canada. The K-ETA exemption has been extended through December 31, 2026, meaning visa-exempt travelers temporarily do NOT need to apply for a K-ETA before their trip. Proof of onward travel remains mandatory regardless of the K-ETA status.
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Exemption (K-ETA suspended) | 90 days | Free (K-ETA suspended until end 2026)0 EUR |
| Tourist Visa C-3 | 90 days | 10,000 KRW (~7 EUR) - suspended until end of 2026~7 EUR |
Transit Rules
Transiting through Incheon Airport (ICN) is possible without a visa for certain nationalities when staying in the international zone. A confirmed ticket to your final destination is required. Incheon offers an excellent free transit program with possible Seoul city tours.
Documents Required
- Passport valid for the entire duration of stay in South Korea
- e-Arrival Card completed online (up to 72h before flight)
- Return or onward ticket (verifiable by PNR)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address)
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Fingerprints taken on arrival (mandatory for all visitors)
Practical tip
Since 2025, South Korea offers an online e-Arrival Card that replaces the paper immigration form. Complete it within 72 hours before your flight to speed up immigration clearance at Incheon.
Order an onward ticket for South Korea
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an onward ticket to enter South Korea?▾
Yes. South Korean immigration requires proof of return or onward travel for all visitors entering on a visa exemption. Airlines also verify this document at the check-in counter before boarding. Without a valid onward ticket showing departure within 90 days, you risk being denied boarding at your departure airport.
Is K-ETA still required to travel to South Korea?▾
No, not currently. The K-ETA exemption has been extended through December 31, 2026. Travelers from visa-exempt countries can enter South Korea without K-ETA during this period. Starting January 1, 2027, K-ETA will become mandatory again.
How long can I stay in South Korea without a visa?▾
French, European, American, and Canadian nationals can stay 90 days without a visa. This duration is generally granted on arrival by the immigration officer at the port of entry. Your onward ticket must show a departure date within 90 days of your arrival in South Korea. The 90-day period cannot be extended without leaving the country.
Do Korean airlines check return tickets?▾
Yes. Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, T'way Air, Jeju Air, and all airlines operating flights to South Korea verify return tickets at the check-in counter and during online check-in.
Does Incheon Airport offer Seoul city tours during transit?▾
Yes. Incheon Airport offers a free transit program allowing guided Seoul city visits during long layovers of 6 hours or more. However, you must clear immigration to participate, which requires a valid onward ticket to your final destination and proof of departure from Korea within your authorized stay period.
What is the Korean e-Arrival Card?▾
The e-Arrival Card is a digital form that replaced the paper immigration form since February 2025. You can complete it online up to 72 hours before your flight departure. It significantly speeds up the immigration clearance process at Incheon and other Korean airports by allowing you to use automated gates instead of waiting in the manual inspection queue.
Can I extend my stay in South Korea beyond 90 days?▾
An extension can be requested at the local immigration office through the HiKorea online system, but approval is not guaranteed. The request must be submitted before your authorized stay expires. Overstaying in South Korea results in significant fines, possible detention, and a multi-year entry ban that can affect future travel to the country.
Are immigration checks strict at Incheon?▾
Immigration checks at Incheon Airport (ICN) are thorough but efficient. Officers verify your passport, return ticket, and may ask questions about the purpose of your visit. Fingerprints are taken systematically. Using the e-Arrival Card speeds up the process.
