South Korea Extends K-ETA Waiver for 67 Countries Through 2025

South Korea has announced an exciting update: the K-ETA waiver for 67 visa-exempt countries is extended until December 31, 2025. This decision aims to enhance tourism by simplifying travel requirements for many international visitors. Here, we will explore the eligible countries, key benefits, and essential travel tips.

A Great Opportunity for Travelers

Are you dreaming of visiting South Korea? If so, there’s fantastic news for you! The South Korean government has extended the temporary exemption from the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) for travelers from 67 visa-exempt countries until the end of 2025.

This extension allows you to bypass the K-ETA application process. It provides smoother, visa-free entry into the beautiful Land of Morning Calm. Initially set to expire at the end of 2024, this extension aligns with the government’s efforts to stimulate tourism during the “Visit Korea Year (2023-2024)” campaign.

Understanding the K-ETA

The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) was launched in September 2021. It serves as a mandatory electronic travel permit for travelers from 112 short-stay visa-exempt countries. The K-ETA enables South Korean authorities to pre-screen visitors, which helps ensure smoother border security and enhances the overall travel experience.

Key Features of the K-ETA

• Cost: The K-ETA fee is KRW 10,000, which is approximately €7 or $7.
• Validity: The K-ETA is valid for three years and permits multiple entries for tourism or business.
• Exemption: As of April 2023, travelers from 67 eligible countries can enter without applying for a K-ETA. This exemption remains effective until December 31, 2025.

Advantages of the K-ETA

While travelers can enter South Korea without a K-ETA due to the exemption, obtaining a K-ETA still offers several conveniences:

• Faster Entry Processing: Approved K-ETA holders can enjoy expedited entry through immigration.
• Skipping Arrival Card: With a K-ETA, travelers do not need to complete an arrival card at immigration.

Remember, travelers with an approved K-ETA can use it until its expiration. However, the application fees are non-refundable, even if the exemption is extended.

Who Benefits from the K-ETA Extension?

Citizens from 67 countries and territories, including popular tourist destinations like the United States, Canada, many European nations, and several Asian countries, can now enter South Korea without applying for a K-ETA.

What If You Already Applied for K-ETA?

If you recently obtained a K-ETA, you can still use it until it expires. However, keep in mind that the application fee is non-refundable.

List of Eligible Countries for K-ETA Exemption

Citizens from the following 67 countries and territories can enter South Korea without needing a K-ETA:

Africa

• South Africa

Americas

• Canada
• Chile
• Colombia
• Mexico
• United States

Asia

• Bahrain
• Brunei
• Hong Kong
• Israel
• Japan
• Kuwait
• Macau
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• Taiwan
• UAE

Europe

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• San Marino
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Oceania

• Australia
• Fiji
• Kiribati
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia
• Nauru
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Palau
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Tonga
• Tuvalu

Important Points for Travelers

Length of Stay

The permitted duration of stay varies by nationality:

• 90 Days: For travelers from most European and American countries.
• 6 Months: For travelers from Canada.

Age Exemptions

Since July 2023, travelers aged 17 and under or 65 and over are exempt from K-ETA requirements.

The K-ETA exemption does not affect the permitted length of stay in South Korea, which varies by nationality. Travelers who wish to enjoy benefits like skipping the arrival card can still apply for a K-ETA for a fee of approximately €7 or $7.

Why This Extension Matters

The extended K-ETA exemption highlights South Korea’s commitment to making travel more accessible. By minimizing entry formalities, the country aims to attract more tourists and revitalize its tourism sector in the post-pandemic era.

Planning Your Visit

With the K-ETA exemption in effect, travelers are encouraged to explore South Korea’s vibrant cities, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you are interested in historical sites, modern attractions, or natural beauty, South Korea has something for everyone.

For those who choose to apply for the K-ETA, more information about the application process and benefits is available on the official website at http://www.k-eta.go.kr.

Further Details

The extension of the K-ETA waiver until December 31, 2025, presents a fantastic opportunity for travelers from 67 countries. By simplifying the entry process, South Korea aims to boost tourism and welcome visitors to its rich culture and diverse attractions. If you are planning a trip, take advantage of this exemption and prepare to discover all that South Korea has to offer!

Latest Skill Shortages in South Korea 2024

The technology-driven businesses and the healthcare sector in South Korea are severely affected by a lack of skilled workers. Below is a list of important professions:

1. Information Technology (IT) and Software Development

• Software engineers
• Data scientists
• AI specialists
• Blockchain developers
• Cybersecurity experts

2. Engineering

• Electrical engineers
• Mechanical engineers
• Automotive engineers
• Chemical engineers

3. Healthcare

• Nurses
• General practitioners
• Medical specialists
• Care workers

4. Teaching

• English teachers (especially in private academies known as hagwons)
• University lecturers

5. Finance and Accounting

• Accountants
• Auditors
• Financial analysts
• Investment managers

6. Research and Development (R&D)

• Scientists in pharmaceuticals
• Biotechnology
• Environmental science

7. Renewable Energy

• Environmental engineers
• Energy consultants
• Sustainability experts

8. Robotics and Automation

• Robotics engineers
• Process engineers
• Automation specialists

Where to Find South Korea’s Skill Shortage List?

Current information about skill shortages in South Korea can be found in reports from the sector and official government websites. Here are a few useful resources:

• Korea Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL): https://www.moel.go.kr/english/resources/survey.do is the government website that periodically posts a list of occupations that are in demand.
• KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency): https://www.kotra.or.kr/english/index.do offers job postings and reports on industries with talent shortages, particularly for foreign workers.

Applying for Skill Shortages in South Korea Work Permit

In 2024, you will be able to apply for a South Korean work visa with your family with ease if you follow these 5 steps:

1: Look for Work in an Industry with a Skill Shortage

• Use Job Portals: To look for jobs in industries where there are talent shortages, visit job portals like Saramin (https://www.saramin.co.kr/), Job Korea (https://www.jobkorea.co.kr/), and LinkedIn. There are filters for geography, industry, and job type.
• Speak with Recruiting Firms: Our list of specialized recruitment companies can assist you in matching your abilities with positions that are in demand.

2: Get a Job Offer

Use the recruiting agency or the corporate website to apply directly for jobs once you’ve discovered one that fits your experience and skill set. The company must be prepared to support your application for a work visa.

3: Submit an E-7 (Specially Designated Activities) Visa application

• Qualifications: You must have a job offer from a South Korean company in a field where there is a skills shortage. In addition, you need to fulfill the prerequisites for education and work experience.
• A valid passport, a contract of employment, degree certificates, and other relevant professional qualifications, the results of a criminal background check, health check results, and the visa application form are all required documents.

4: Take your family along

The E-7 Visa enables you to apply for your spouse’s and kids’ F-3 Dependent Visa. They are allowed to live with you in South Korea for the duration of your job with this visa. Your spouse may apply for their own E-7 visa or any other appropriate work visa if they find employment, even though they are not permitted to work under the F-3 visa.

5: Visit your local embassy to apply for a visa

After obtaining all required paperwork, submit your application to the South Korean embassy or consulate that is closest to you. Processing time takes about two to three months.