Starting from 24 February 2025, all foreign tourists travelling to South Korea will be required to submit an e-Arrival Card before entry. This digital form is set to fully replace the traditional paper document that travellers previously had to complete upon arrival. The goal of the new system is to streamline immigration procedures and enhance the overall travel experience.
The South Korean Ministry of Justice has introduced this innovative system to reduce waiting times and minimise congestion in arrival halls. Previously, immigration officers had to manually scan paper documents, adding extra time to the entry process. By implementing the e-Arrival Card, the government aims to boost foreign tourism and attract more visitors by providing a more efficient and hassle-free entry procedure.
To ensure a smooth transition, paper arrival forms will remain available until the end of 2025. During this period, travellers can choose whether to complete the paper form or the digital version. This flexibility allows visitors to familiarise themselves with the new system before it becomes mandatory.
The e-Arrival Card can be accessed via the official electronic arrival card website. Travellers can fill out the form on a PC or smartphone, free of charge. It must be submitted at least three days before arrival and remains valid for 72 hours after submission.
Required Information
Travellers are required to provide the following details: flight or ship details, address of accommodation, passport credentials, contact information, and an email address. After finalizing the form, they will receive an email confirmation containing their confirmation number and the e-Arrival Card’s expiration date.
To simplify the process for families and groups, one declaration can include up to nine travellers. This feature allows groups travelling together to submit a single e-form rather than completing individual forms. Additionally, children under 14 years old must have the form submitted on their behalf by a parent or guardian.
Travellers do not need to print or present a PDF copy of their e-Arrival Card upon entry. Immigration officers will have access to the information digitally, making the process faster and more efficient.
Who must submit the e-Arrival card?
The e-Arrival Card is mandatory for both short- and long-term travellers. However, exceptions apply to:
- Airline crew members
- Registered South Korean citizens
- Holders of a valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA)
Before the introduction of this system, foreign visitors were unable to submit travel information in advance. By 2026, the paper form will be completely phased out, making digital submission the standard for all foreign arrivals.
