Korea e-Arrival Card: Who Needs It and How to Submit It
Preparing for a trip to South Korea? Before you fly, check whether you need to submit Korea's electronic arrival declaration, commonly called the e-Arrival Card.
The system allows eligible travelers to submit arrival information online before reaching immigration. It is free through the official government website, but it is important to use the correct site and understand whether the declaration applies to you.
1. What Is the Korea e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is an online arrival declaration used by South Korea's immigration authorities.
It is not a visa and does not replace a visa or other entry authorization when one is required. Submitting it also does not guarantee admission to Korea.
The requirement depends on your immigration status. Travelers holding a valid K-ETA, registered foreign residents and certain other categories, such as airline crew, are among those exempt from submitting the declaration. Other travelers may need to complete it.
If you are unsure, use the official e-Arrival Card website's Navigator to check your situation.
2. When Should You Submit It?
The official system allows submission within the three days before arrival in Korea, based on Korean time.
The submitted card is valid for 72 hours. If your arrival falls outside that validity period, you may need to submit a new declaration.
Do not leave the process until the last minute if you can complete it in advance. Check the official website for the available submission dates and current instructions.
3. What Information Should You Prepare?
Before opening the form, have these details ready:
- Your valid passport.
- Your arrival date and travel details.
- Your accommodation address in Korea.
- Contact information for your place of stay.
- The other personal and travel details requested by the official form.
- An email address for submission-related information.
Enter the information carefully and check that your passport details, travel dates and accommodation information are correct before submitting.
4. How to Submit the e-Arrival Card
Step 1: Open the Official Website
Visit the official government website: www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr.
The service is free. Be cautious of imitation websites that request payment details or charge a fee to complete the declaration.
Step 2: Check Whether You Need to Submit It
Use the website's Navigator or eligibility guidance to determine whether the declaration applies to your circumstances.
Step 3: Complete the Form
Enter the required passport, travel and accommodation information. Review the information carefully before submission.
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation
Follow the website's instructions after submitting. Keep the confirmation information available in case you need to check or edit your declaration.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying for a free service: The official e-Arrival Card service does not charge a submission fee.
- Using an unofficial website: Verify the government domain before entering personal information.
- Submitting too early: The three-day submission window and 72-hour validity period matter.
- Entering the wrong hotel details: Check your accommodation address and contact information before submitting.
- Assuming the card replaces a visa: Check your visa or K-ETA requirements separately.
Final Tip
Make your arrival checklist before departure: passport, visa or K-ETA requirements where applicable, accommodation details and the e-Arrival Card if required.
For the latest eligibility rules and official instructions, use the Korean government's e-Arrival Card website rather than relying on third-party application services.
