South Korea to Launch e-Arrival Card for Easier Entry Starting February 24

Exciting changes are coming to South Korea’s entry process! Starting February 24, 2025, all travelers must complete the e-Arrival Card before arriving in the country. This new digital system aims to simplify the entry experience and will replace paper forms by 2026.

Embracing Digital Innovation

South Korea is embracing digital technology to enhance travel efficiency. Introducing the e-Arrival Card will revolutionize how international visitors enter the country. Travelers can complete this mandatory form online, making their arrival smoother and more efficient.

This initiative aligns with similar digital entry systems already in place in Cambodia, Malaysia, and soon Thailand. The e-Arrival Card aims to streamline the immigration process, benefiting both travelers and immigration authorities.

Overview: e-Arrival Card

The e-Arrival Card replaces traditional paper arrival forms. It collects essential information, including travel dates, flight details, and accommodation information. This digital approach reduces processing time and minimizes delays, ensuring a more seamless entry for travelers.

Transition Period Until December 2025

According to the Korean Immigration Service, a transition period will allow travelers to choose between paper and electronic arrival cards until December 2025. From January 2026 onward, only the online option will be available, making the e-Arrival Card the standard procedure.

Who Needs to Complete the e-Arrival Card?

Most international visitors to South Korea must complete the e-Arrival Card. This process is free and should be finalized within three days before arrival.

Exemptions from the e-Arrival Card Requirement

Certain travelers are exempt from this requirement, including:

• Airline crew members
• Holders of a valid K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
• Registered residents of South Korea, including permanent residents and Overseas Korean Resident Card holders

How to Complete the e-Arrival Card

Travelers will access the e-Arrival Card via the official website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr), which is currently under development. To complete the card, follow these steps:

• Accept the Terms and Conditions
• Travelers must agree to the platform’s terms before proceeding. For minors under 14, a family member or guardian must submit the form.
• Upload a Copy of Your Passport: Upload a photo or scanned copy of your passport’s data page. The system will use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to extract personal details automatically.
• Enter Travel Details: Provide your arrival date, flight details, planned departure date, purpose of stay, and local accommodation address.
• Submit the Declaration: Once you fill in all details, click “Submit.” You can download the e-Arrival Card in PDF format or take a screenshot. A confirmation email will be sent to your provided address. If you need to make changes after submission, you can edit your details on the website before passing through entry control.

Final Thoughts

With this digital transition, South Korea is enhancing border control efficiency while ensuring a smoother arrival process for international visitors. Travelers should stay informed about the latest guidelines and complete the e-Arrival Card to avoid entry delays.

For more details, visit the official e-Arrival Card website or consult South Korean immigration authorities before traveling.