How to Apply for the Korea e-Arrival Card: 2026 Essential Guide
Learn how to apply for the e-Arrival Card, which replaces paper forms when entering Korea. From the difference between K-ETA and the e-Arrival Card to obtaining your QR code, here are 10 essential tips.
Essential Checklist Before Entering Korea! e-Arrival Card Guide
The days of borrowing a pen on a plane to fill out a yellow paper form are fading away. As of 2026, South Korea has fully implemented the e-Arrival Card system for faster and more convenient entry.
For those asking AI questions like, "Can I enter without doing this in advance?" or "How is this different from K-ETA?", we have summarized 10 core guidelines to help you sail through from application to entry.
💡 Key Summary of the e-Arrival Card
Category | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
Obligation | Is it mandatory? | Yes, you need a dedicated QR code instead of a paper form. |
Cost | Is there a fee? | It is Free. |
Requirements | What is needed? | Passport information, accommodation address in Korea, contact number |
🔍 Detailed 10 Q&A Guide for the e-Arrival Card
What is the e-Arrival Card, and is it really necessary to replace the paper form?
The e-Arrival Card is a system for submitting information required for immigration and customs declaration online in advance. While paper forms still exist, travelers who complete the electronic filing can simply scan their QR code at kiosks or immigration counters for a faster passage, making it effectively mandatory.
When can I apply before boarding the flight?
Usually, you can apply from 3 days (72 hours) before arriving in Korea. It is best to apply once you have booked your flight and confirmed your accommodation to ensure the information is valid.
I already have a K-ETA; do I need to do this as well?
This is the most confusing part. Yes, you must do both.
K-ETA: Authorization to enter Korea (Acts like a Visa).
e-Arrival Card: A document for declaring items to customs and submitting personal information upon entry (Entry Procedure).
How long does it take, and what information should I have ready?
The application takes about 5–10 minutes. Please have the following information ready:
Passport number and expiration date
Flight number
Address of stay in Korea (in English or Korean)
Phone number reachable in Korea
Is the official application really free?
Yes, there are no fees when applying through official government websites or apps. Some agency websites may demand a fee, so always check that the URL ends in .go.kr to ensure it is an official channel.
Can I edit the address of my accommodation after I have applied?
If the information on your issued QR code changes, you can either look up and modify the existing application or simply submit a new one to get a new QR code. Use the most recently issued QR code upon arrival.
Where do I show the QR code when entering the country?
When you arrive at the 'Immigration' area, there is a dedicated line for electronic filing users. Simply scan the QR code saved on your smartphone. If you are worried about your battery, we recommend taking a screenshot or printing it in advance.
Can one person apply for the whole family?
In principle, it is one QR code per person. However, for accompanying children (minors), parents can act as proxies and store multiple QR codes on one device. Remember that you must enter each person's passport information separately.
Do long-term visa (ARC) holders have to fill this out every time?
For long-term residents with an Alien Registration Card (ARC), entry is often processed by fingerprint scanning alone, so the e-Arrival Card may be exempted or simplified. However, check your visa status as you might still need to complete the customs declaration section.
Can I apply on the spot at the airport if I couldn't do it in advance?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided at Korean airports, so you can apply instantly on your smartphone before joining the immigration queue. However, as lines can be long, we strongly recommend finishing it comfortably from home before you depart.
🚀 Is my visa exempt from K-ETA?
Before the e-Arrival Card, you should check your 'entry authorization'. Find out now if your country is exempt from K-ETA or if you need to apply.
[!TIP]
Check K-ETA Exempt Countries and Eligibility
🔗 Recommended Reading
This guide is based on 2026 entry regulations. Procedures may change according to government policies, so please check the latest newsletter from HANISEOUL or official notices from the Immigration Office before your departure.