How to Enter South Korea with Korea Arrival Card

Welcome to South Korea! Before entering the country, international travelers may need to complete the Korea Arrival Card, an important step in the arrival process. Providing the required information accurately and before your trip can help make immigration procedures smoother and more convenient. This guide walks you through the essential details of the Korea Arrival Card online, so you can prepare with confidence and focus on enjoying your time in South Korea.

What is the Korea Arrival Card?

Travelers visiting South Korea may need to complete an arrival declaration before entering the country. The Korea Arrival Card, officially known as the e-Arrival Card, is an online form that collects basic personal, passport, travel, and accommodation details for immigration processing.

The electronic system replaces the need to fill out the traditional paper arrival declaration for travelers who submit it online. Visitors can complete the South Korea e-Arrival Card through the official government website within three days before arriving in Korea, based on Korea Standard Time (KST).

The application is free. Travelers do not need to pay a registration fee or download a separate mobile app to submit the form. A phone, tablet, or computer with internet access is enough.

Before starting, check whether you need to submit an arrival card. Some travelers, including valid K-ETA holders and certain registered residents, are exempt.

South Korea e-Arrival Card Checklist

Prepare these details before opening the application. Having your travel documents and accommodation information ready makes the process quicker and reduces the chance of submitting incorrect information.

• Check whether you need to submit an e-Arrival Card.
• Prepare a valid passport.
• Have a working email address available.
• Confirm your arrival date and flight or vessel details.
• Prepare your expected departure date and travel information.
• Confirm your accommodation name, address, and contact details in South Korea.
• Check your travel purpose and other information requested by the form.
• Visit the official Korea Arrival Card website.
• Complete the form within three days before arrival, based on KST.
• Review all information before submitting.
• Save your issue number and confirmation email.
• Complete a separate declaration for each new trip if required.

Traveling with children? A parent, guardian, or another person must complete the e-Arrival Card on behalf of children under 14 years old.

Who Needs to Submit the Korea Arrival Card?

In general, foreign nationals entering South Korea need to submit an arrival declaration unless they fall under an exemption category. This includes visitors arriving for tourism, business, family visits, and other permitted purposes.

The requirement is not limited to travelers arriving by air. Foreign nationals entering through other eligible ports of entry should also check the applicable declaration requirements.

Parents and guardians should pay particular attention when traveling with children. Anyone under 14 years old must have their declaration completed by a family member or another person on their behalf.

If you are unsure about your eligibility, use the official e-Arrival Card Navigator before starting the application. It checks your circumstances based on your nationality, passport type, destination, and immigration status.

Also read: 20 Must-See South Korea Tourist Attractions for First-Time Visitors

Exemptions from the South Korea e-Arrival Card

Not every foreign traveler needs to complete the e-Arrival Card. The official Korean immigration guidance lists several categories that are excluded from the declaration requirement.

Common exemptions include:

• South Korean citizens: Korean nationals do not need to submit a foreign arrival declaration.
• Registered foreign residents: Holders of a valid Korean Residence Card, including permanent residence and Overseas Korean Resident Cards, are exempt.
• Valid K-ETA holders: Travelers with an approved and valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorization generally do not need to submit an e-Arrival Card.
• Group electronic visa holders: Certain travelers entering under qualifying group electronic visas are exempt.
• Eligible visa-free group tourists: Specific group-tour programs operating under designated visa-free arrangements may qualify.
• Certain airline crew members: Foreign flight attendants and other eligible crew members are excluded.

There are additional exemptions for certain official travel documents and special immigration categories. The conditions can differ, so do not rely on a general list alone.

Important: A traveler who holds a visa may still need to submit an e-Arrival Card, even if they also have a K-ETA. The official guidance states that travelers entering with a visa must follow the applicable visa-based immigration process.

The safest way to confirm your status is to use the official e-Arrival Card Navigator. Select all the documents you hold that are valid on your arrival date and follow the result.

Why the Korea e-Arrival Card Matters

The e-Arrival Card gives Korean immigration authorities access to a traveler's arrival declaration before they reach the immigration checkpoint. It collects information that would otherwise be written on a paper arrival card, including passport details, travel arrangements, purpose of entry, and accommodation in South Korea.

Completing the form before departure also gives travelers time to review their information and correct mistakes. This is particularly useful for families and groups, where several declarations may need to be prepared.

It is not a visa or an entry permit, and submitting it does not guarantee admission into South Korea. Travelers must still meet the applicable visa, passport, and immigration requirements.

Step-by-Step How to Complete the South Korea Arrival Card Online

The Korea e-Arrival Card can be submitted through a computer or mobile browser. The official platform is available in several languages, including English, and the process involves entering your personal and travel information before submitting the declaration.

Step 1: Visit the Official Korea Arrival Card Website

Open the official website:

South Korea e-Arrival Card official website

Check that the website address is e-arrivalcard.go.kr. The Korean Ministry of Justice has warned travelers about fake websites that imitate the service and request payment information.

The official service is free. You do not need to use a travel agency or third-party website to complete the form.

Step 2: Select Individual or Group Declaration

Choose the declaration type that matches your travel arrangements.

• Individual declaration: Suitable for one traveler or a small group of up to nine people.
• Group declaration: Designed for larger groups and travel agencies, with submissions for up to 1,000 people through the PC website.

If you are traveling with family or friends, check the group submission options before entering everyone's details.

Step 3: Agree to the Terms and Enter Your Email Address

Read the terms and conditions and provide a valid email address. The email address is used to send the submission information and issue number.

Make sure you can access the inbox during your trip. Check your spam or junk folder if the confirmation email does not appear after submission.

Step 4: Enter Your Passport Information

Prepare your passport and enter the requested personal details. The website allows travelers to upload a photo of the passport's information page to help fill in the details automatically.

If the passport information is not recognized correctly, enter the details manually and check that they match the passport.

For children under 14, a parent, guardian, or another person must complete the declaration on their behalf.

Step 5: Add Your Travel and Accommodation Information

Enter the details of your trip, including:

• Arrival date and flight or vessel information
• Expected departure date and travel details
• Purpose of entry
• Address and contact information for your stay in Korea
• Other information requested by the form

Use your confirmed itinerary and accommodation booking when filling in these fields. If you are staying at a hotel, refer to the booking confirmation for the correct property name and address.

Step 6: Review Your Information

Before submitting, check the spelling of your name, passport number, arrival date, travel details, and accommodation address.

An incorrect passport number or arrival date can create unnecessary problems during immigration processing. Take a moment to compare the information with your travel documents before continuing.

Step 7: Complete Verification and Submit

Follow the verification instructions displayed on the website. The official service may require an additional authentication step during submission.

Once all information is confirmed, submit the declaration. There is no application fee and no separate approval process for a correctly submitted arrival declaration.

Step 8: Save Your Issue Number and Confirmation

After submission, the system sends an issue number to the email address provided. Keep the email accessible and save a copy of your submitted information if you want a personal record.

A printed copy or PDF is not required for immigration inspection after successful online submission. However, keeping the issue number available can be useful if you need to check or edit your declaration.

Individual vs. Group Korea e-Arrival Card: What Is the Difference?

The official website offers two ways to submit arrival declarations. The right option depends on the number of travelers and who is handling the applications.

For a family holiday or a small group of friends, the individual declaration option is usually sufficient. It allows up to nine people to be included in one submission.

Travel agencies or organizers handling larger parties can use the group declaration function on a computer. The system supports up to 1,000 people in a group submission, making it more practical for organized tours.

Remember that submitting declarations together does not remove the need to check each traveler's information. Passport details, arrival information, and other required fields must be accurate for every person.

Korea Arrival Card QR Code: Do You Need One?

Travelers searching for a Korea Arrival Card QR code may come across QR codes in official guides and government instructions. These are used as shortcuts to open the official e-Arrival Card website.

The submitted arrival declaration is associated with an issue number sent to the email address provided during registration. The official guide does not require travelers to present a separate personal QR code or printout at immigration after successful online submission.

If you want to keep a copy of your declaration, download the submitted information or save the confirmation email. Having the issue number accessible is also helpful if you need to check or edit the form later.

Is There a Korea Arrival Card App?

There is no separate mobile app that travelers need to download to submit the e-Arrival Card. The official service works through a mobile web browser, so you can complete the form on a smartphone or tablet.

Open the official website directly in your browser or use the QR code provided in official government instructions to access the service. Avoid downloading unofficial apps that claim to process the South Korea arrival card.

Before entering your passport details, check that you are using the official e-arrivalcard.go.kr website.

Korea e-Arrival Card vs. K-ETA: What Is the Difference?

The e-Arrival Card and K-ETA are separate systems, although both relate to entering South Korea. One is an arrival declaration, while the other is an electronic travel authorization for eligible visa-free travelers.

A traveler with a valid K-ETA is generally exempt from submitting an e-Arrival Card. However, a person entering South Korea with a visa must follow the relevant visa-based declaration requirements.

Some nationalities are temporarily exempt from K-ETA, but this does not mean that every traveler can assume the same entry-document requirements. Check the official e-Arrival Card Navigator and K-ETA website for your specific circumstances.

Korea Arrival Card for Singaporean Travelers

Singapore passport holders can visit South Korea for short-term tourism and other permitted visa-free purposes, subject to the applicable entry conditions. Singapore is also included in the temporary K-ETA exemption through December 31, 2026.

However, the K-ETA exemption and the arrival declaration are separate matters. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore's travel notice directs travelers to submit an e-Arrival Card within three days before arrival. The official e-Arrival Card website also has an eligibility navigator that should be checked for the latest rules and individual circumstances.

For a trip in 2026, Singaporean travelers should:

• Check their passport validity and visa-free stay conditions.
• Confirm their e-Arrival Card requirement using the official Navigator.
• If required, submit the form within three days before arrival in Korea, based on KST.
• Keep the submission issue number and confirmation email accessible.
• Check the latest K-ETA exemption notice before traveling, particularly for trips close to the end of 2026.

Singaporeans aged 17 and above may also be eligible to use automated immigration clearance at Incheon International Airport after completing the required registration.

If you are flying from Singapore but hold another country's passport, your entry requirements are determined by your nationality and travel documents, not simply your departure airport.

Check or Edit Your Korea e-Arrival Card

Travel plans can change after an arrival declaration has been submitted. You may need to correct your accommodation details, departure information, or other eligible travel information before reaching Korean immigration.

The official website provides a Check/Edit function that allows travelers to retrieve their submitted declaration using the issue number or email verification.

To check or edit your form:

1. Visit the official Korea e-Arrival Card website.
2. Select the Check/Edit option.
3. Enter your issue number or complete the email verification process.
4. Retrieve your submitted declaration.
5. Review the information and update the fields that can be changed.
6. Submit the revised information before immigration inspection.

The official guide allows eligible changes to travel purpose, stay information, and departure date. The arrival date can only be corrected within three days of the original submission date.

Some personal details, including your full name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth, cannot be changed through the update function. If these details are incorrect, follow the official instructions to submit a new declaration with the correct information.

What Happens If You Forget to Submit the Korea e-Arrival Card?

Realizing that you have not completed your arrival declaration before a flight can be stressful, but you should deal with it before reaching the immigration checkpoint.

If you are required to submit an e-Arrival Card and have not done so, access the official website as soon as possible. The form can be completed on a phone or computer, including while you are at the airport, provided you have an internet connection.

Follow these steps:

1. Open the official website. Use the airport Wi-Fi or your mobile data to access the e-Arrival Card portal.
2. Prepare your documents. Have your passport, flight details, accommodation address, and email address ready.
3. Complete the declaration. Enter the requested information and check it carefully.
4. Submit the form. Follow the verification instructions and complete the application.
5. Keep your issue number. Save the confirmation email so you can access your submission if needed.

If you cannot access the website or encounter a technical issue, ask airport or immigration staff for guidance on the available declaration procedure. Do not assume that you can proceed through immigration without completing the required arrival declaration.

The easiest way to avoid last-minute problems is to check your eligibility and submit the form within the permitted three-day window before arrival.

Troubleshooting the Arrival Card Korea Process

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Most problems with the e-Arrival Card can be resolved by checking the information entered or returning to the official website. Here are a few common situations and what to do.

Passport details are not scanned correctly

Try uploading a clearer image of the passport information page. If the system still cannot recognize the details, enter them manually and compare the entries with your passport.

The form will not submit

Review all required fields and check for missing information. Follow the on-screen verification instructions and try again if the verification code or authentication step fails.

You have not received the confirmation email

Check your spam and junk folders first. If the email is still missing, return to the official website and use the Check/Edit function with the required verification details.

Your travel information has changed

Use the Check/Edit function to update eligible information before immigration inspection. If a personal detail that cannot be edited is incorrect, follow the official instructions for submitting a new declaration.

You are unsure if you need to submit a form

Use the official e-Arrival Card Navigator. It is the best starting point for checking your eligibility based on your passport and immigration status.

A website asks you to pay for the arrival card

Leave the website and check the address. The official e-Arrival Card service is free, and the government has warned travelers about fake websites requesting payment details.

Korea Arrival Card for Singaporean Travelers

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Singapore passport holders can visit South Korea for short-term tourism and other permitted visa-free purposes, subject to the applicable entry conditions. Singapore is also included in the temporary K-ETA exemption through December 31, 2026.

However, the K-ETA exemption and the arrival declaration are separate matters. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore's travel notice directs travelers to submit an e-Arrival Card within three days before arrival. The official e-Arrival Card website also has an eligibility navigator that should be checked for the latest rules and individual circumstances.

For a trip in 2026, Singaporean travelers should:

• Check their passport validity and visa-free stay conditions.
• Confirm their e-Arrival Card requirement using the official Navigator.
• If required, submit the form within three days before arrival in Korea, based on KST.
• Keep the submission issue number and confirmation email accessible.
• Check the latest K-ETA exemption notice before traveling, particularly for trips close to the end of 2026.

Singaporeans aged 17 and above may also be eligible to use automated immigration clearance at Incheon International Airport after completing the required registration.

If you are flying from Singapore but hold another country's passport, your entry requirements are determined by your nationality and travel documents, not simply your departure airport.

Destinations to Explore in South Korea

Once your arrival requirements are sorted, you can start planning where to go. South Korea offers a mix of large cities, historic neighborhoods, coastal destinations, and island scenery. Your choice will depend on how long you plan to stay and the type of trip you want.

Seoul: A First Stop for City Sightseeing

Seoul is a natural starting point for many first-time visitors. The capital combines royal palaces, traditional markets, shopping districts, museums, and contemporary neighborhoods.

Popular stops include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong, N Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and Hongdae. Visitors can also explore traditional streets around Insadong or spend an evening along the Han River.

Busan: Beaches, Markets, and Coastal Views

Busan offers a different pace from Seoul, with beaches, seafood markets, coastal temples, and waterfront neighborhoods. Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Market, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple are among the city's best-known attractions. Travelers can reach Busan from Seoul by KTX high-speed train, with the journey taking around two and a half hours depending on the service.

Jeju Island: Nature and Coastal Scenery

Jeju Island is known for volcanic landscapes, coastal walks, waterfalls, and scenic beaches. It is a popular choice for travelers who want to add outdoor activities and a slower island stay to their South Korea itinerary.

Highlights include Seongsan Ilchulbong, Hallasan National Park, Jeju's coastal roads, and traditional markets. Most visitors reach Jeju by domestic flight from Seoul or Busan.

Gyeongju: History and Traditional Heritage

Gyeongju is a good destination for travelers interested in Korean history. Once the capital of the Silla Kingdom, the city is home to historic temples, royal tombs, and heritage sites.

Highlights include Bulguksa Temple, Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. Gyeongju can be combined with Busan for a regional itinerary.

Where to Stay in South Korea

A convenient hotel location can make a difference when exploring South Korea, particularly in large cities where attractions are spread across different neighborhoods. Travelodge Hotels Asia has properties in Seoul and Busan, offering comfortable rooms, practical amenities, and convenient access to public transportation and local attractions.

Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro

Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro is located near Euljiro 3-ga Station, providing subway connections to several parts of Seoul. Myeongdong's shopping streets, restaurants, and central attractions are within convenient reach.

The hotel offers contemporary rooms, Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry facilities. Its location is useful for travelers who want to explore central Seoul without spending too much time commuting between neighborhoods.

Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan

Located near Chungmuro Station, Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan offers convenient access to Myeongdong, Namsan, and other central Seoul attractions. Guests can explore nearby shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural sites before returning to a comfortable room. Its location is also practical for travelers who want to visit N Seoul Tower and the surrounding area.

Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul

Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul is a practical base for exploring the Dongdaemun shopping district and nearby attractions. The hotel is close to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, which connects to several subway lines.

Guests can visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, browse local shopping malls, or travel to other parts of the city by subway. Visitors comparing accommodation in the area can also explore hotels near Dongdaemun Market.

Travelodge Suites Busan Centum

Travelodge Suites Busan Centum provides a convenient base for exploring the Centum City area and other parts of Busan. Its location is useful for visitors planning to attend events at BEXCO, visit nearby shopping areas, or explore the city's coastal attractions.

Prepare for Your South Korea Trip

The Korea e-Arrival Card is a small but important part of preparing for a trip to South Korea. Check whether you need to submit one, complete the form within the permitted three-day window, and keep your issue number accessible before departure.

With your arrival declaration and accommodation arranged, you can spend more time planning the places you want to see, from Seoul's shopping streets and historic landmarks to Busan's coastline and Jeju's natural scenery.

For a convenient stay in Seoul or Busan, explore Travelodge Hotels Asia's properties and choose a location that fits your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Korea Arrival Card

Is the South Korea e-Arrival Card free?

Yes. The South Korea e-Arrival Card is free when submitted through the official government website. Travelers do not need to pay a registration or processing fee.

What is the official website for the Korea Arrival Card?

The official website is www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr. Use this website to submit, check, or edit your declaration.

When should I submit the Korea e-Arrival Card?

You can submit the e-Arrival Card within three days before arriving in South Korea, based on Korea Standard Time. If you do not enter Korea within 72 hours after submission, the declaration becomes invalid and you need to submit a new one.

Who needs to submit a South Korea arrival card?

Most foreign nationals entering South Korea need to submit an arrival declaration unless they qualify for an exemption. Valid K-ETA holders, certain registered residents, and eligible group electronic visa holders are among the exempt categories.

Do children need a Korea e-Arrival Card?

Children under 14 must have their declaration completed by a parent, guardian, or another person on their behalf. Make sure the child's passport and travel information are entered correctly.

Do Singaporeans need a Korea Arrival Card in 2026?

Singapore passport holders are temporarily exempt from K-ETA through December 31, 2026. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore's travel notice directs travelers to submit an e-Arrival Card within three days before arrival. Check the official e-Arrival Card Navigator for your specific circumstances before departure.

What is the difference between the Korea e-Arrival Card and K-ETA?

The e-Arrival Card is an arrival declaration that collects travel and accommodation information. K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization for eligible visa-free travelers. They serve different purposes, and a valid K-ETA generally exempts its holder from submitting an e-Arrival Card.

Can I submit a Korea Arrival Card for my family?

Yes. The individual declaration option supports up to nine people in one submission. A parent or guardian can complete the form for children under 14.

Can a travel agency submit a group e-Arrival Card?

Yes. The official group declaration function is designed for travel agencies and larger groups. The PC website supports submissions for up to 1,000 people at once.

Do I need to print my Korea e-Arrival Card?

No. A printed copy or PDF is not required for immigration inspection after successful online submission. However, keeping your issue number and confirmation email accessible is useful.

Does the Korea Arrival Card come with a QR code?

The official website and government guides may use QR codes to direct travelers to the e-Arrival Card portal. After submission, the issue number is sent to your email. You do not need to present a separate personal QR code at immigration.

Is there a Korea Arrival Card app?

No separate app is required. The official e-Arrival Card service works through a mobile web browser, so you can complete the form on your phone.

Can I edit my Korea Arrival Card after submitting it?

Yes. Use the Check/Edit function on the official website to retrieve your submission with your issue number or email verification. Eligible travel details can be updated before immigration inspection.

What happens if I forget to submit the Korea e-Arrival Card?

If you are required to submit one, complete the declaration through the official website as soon as possible before passing through immigration. If you cannot access the system, ask airport or immigration staff for guidance on the available procedure.

Do I need a new Korea Arrival Card for every trip?

Yes. The declaration is valid for one entry and becomes invalid after 72 hours from submission or once you have completed immigration in Korea. Submit a new form for each subsequent trip if you are required to do so.