In brief: a temporary K-ETA exemption does not waive visa or stay requirements. It also does not automatically settle whether you must submit an e-Arrival Card. Check each requirement separately.
1. Check the current K-ETA exemption
The Ministry of Justice’s K-ETA notice dated 23 December 2025 extends the temporary exemption for countries and regions already covered through 31 December 2026. The Korea Tourism Organization’s Visa & Travel Requirements page (footer update date: 18 September 2026) lists Japan among the countries exempt through that date, and we rechecked that listing on 27 October 2026. Confirm your passport’s current eligibility on the official K-ETA site before travel. This concerns only applying for K-ETA; it does not waive visa or permitted-stay requirements.
2. Use the official e-Arrival Card Navigator
The official Korean e-Arrival Card portal says eligible travellers can submit the free online declaration within three days before arrival. Exemptions depend on which valid entry document you hold, so select your situation in the official Navigator and check whether a declaration is required for your arrival. Do not assume that being temporarily exempt from applying for K-ETA also exempts you from the e-Arrival Card.
3. Check visa and permitted-stay rules separately
Visa requirements and permitted stay depend on nationality, passport type, purpose and individual circumstances. Check the Korea Visa Portal and the latest information from the Korean mission responsible for your country. If you are unsure, contact an official immigration or consular source.
The e-Arrival Card service is free. Be cautious of unofficial sites that ask for payment details; confirm that the address bar shows the official e-arrivalcard.go.kr domain.
The K-ETA exemption note above reflects the 2026 information checked on 27 October 2026. Entry requirements can change. Recheck official portals before booking, boarding and travel. Final admission is determined by Korean authorities.
Three separate entry checks
| Check | What it answers |
|---|---|
| Visa and stay conditions | Whether your nationality, passport, purpose and length of stay meet the relevant conditions. Use the Korea Visa Portal or your responsible Korean consulate. |
| K-ETA | Whether you need travel authorization or qualify for a current temporary exemption. Holding a valid authorization is a separate consideration. |
| e-Arrival Card | Whether you need an electronic arrival declaration. Use the official Navigator; a temporary K-ETA exemption does not by itself answer this question. |
A sequence to follow before departure
- Before booking: identify your passport nationality and type, travel purpose and planned stay. Check the official requirements for that combination.
- Before travel: revisit the official K-ETA site for your travel date. Do not guess whether to apply if your eligibility is unclear.
- If a declaration is required: use the official submission window and have your passport, arrival flight and Korean accommodation details ready.
- Before boarding: review your name, passport number, arrival flight and address entries, and read your airline's instructions.
A common mistake: “I do not need to apply for K-ETA” does not mean “I need no entry checks.” This guide and its checklist do not determine personal eligibility. The detailed exemption example is for Japanese ordinary-passport visitors, not every nationality.
An important exception for K-ETA holders
The official eligibility guide generally exempts valid K-ETA holders, but explicitly states that someone entering with a visa must complete the e-Arrival Card even if they also hold a K-ETA. Do not apply a general exemption to a different entry status.