New Electronic Travel Authorization To Allow Visa-Free Entry

• Published date: 07 May 2021
• Subject Matter: Immigration, General Immigration, Work Visas
• Law Firm: Envoy Global, Inc.
• Author: Envoy Global, Inc.

Overview

Last month, the Ministry of Justice of South Korea issued a notice that describes the implementation of a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will permit foreign nationals to enter South Korea without a visa. Instead, travelers will be required to provide personal and travel-related information through the new ETA website in advance. The ETA system will undergo a pilot launch test and supplementation period beginning May 3, 2021, through August 2021. The system will be fully implemented in September 2021.

Key Points

• South Korea is launching a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will allow eligible foreign nationals to enter the country visa-free.

• The new system is set to launch a pilot period from May through August 2021. The system will be fully implemented in September 2021.

• During the pilot test period, the ETA will be optional for travelers and the application fee will be waived.

• The ETA system will be eligible to nationals of only 21 countries (United States included) while COVID-19 restrictions continue around the world.

• Foreign nationals will need to provide personal and travel-related information through the ETA website at least 24 hours prior to traveling to South Korea. This information can be uploaded through this ETA website.

What Are the Changes?

Beginning September 2021, certain foreign nationals traveling to South Korea will be required to upload personal and travel-related information to the new ETA website at least 24...