South Korea Travel Entry Preparation 2026｜Complete Guide to the e-Arrival Card and K-ETA

Author: YEPPURIKO Editorial Team•05/12/2026

Korea Travel Tips Complete Guide to Entry Preparations for Your First Trip to Korea

Korea Travel Entry Preparations 2026｜Complete Guide to e-Arrival Card・K-ETA

✈️ Paper declaration forms are no longer used. The latest guide to read before departure

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🎯 Preparing for your first trip to Korea has changed

Korea is often seen as a nearby and easy destination to travel to.

However, Korea’s entry rules have changed significantly from 2025 to 2026.

Some travelers have said, “I packed as I used to and ended up panicking at the airport.”

For travel to Korea in 2026, success depends on completing advance registration before departure.

In this article, we have compiled the latest entry rules in one guide so that even first-time travelers can follow them without confusion.

📝 Paper entry declaration forms will no longer be used from January 2026

This is the biggest change.

From January 2026, the paper entry declaration forms previously filled out on board will be discontinued.

Instead, advance online registration for the “e-Arrival Card” will be required.

After checking the actual e-Arrival Card registration process, the required fields seemed simple and the procedure itself appeared to take only a few minutes. However, preparing your passport number and flight information in advance will help you complete it more smoothly.

✅ e-Arrival Card basics

Registration is free and available from three days before the date of entry, based on Korea Standard Time. After completing registration, save it as a PDF／QR code or bring a printed copy. It can also help shorten the time required for entry procedures.

Those who hold a valid visa, K-ETA, or foreigner registration card do not need to register.

🚨 Beware of fake websites

The official e-Arrival Card service is only available at www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr. Websites that request payment are not official, so be sure to access the service through the official website.

🛂 K-ETA exemption extended, and visas are unnecessary for tourism

For tourism purposes, holders of Japanese passports can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

The temporary exemption period for the electronic travel authorization “K-ETA” has also been extended.

K-ETA procedures are not required until December 31, 2026.

✅ Passport validity

It is recommended that your passport be valid for at least three months from the date of entry. Check it early so you are not rushed just before departure.

Regarding Q-CODE, registration is generally not required when entering Korea from Japan.

However, registration may be required when entering from areas where infectious diseases are occurring.

🚪 Entry becomes easier from your second visit with the SES gates at Incheon Airport

Since December 1, 2025, the unmanned immigration inspection gates “SES” for foreign nationals have been available at Incheon International Airport.

After registering your fingerprints and facial photo the first time, you can continue using the gates on subsequent visits while your passport remains valid.

For those planning multiple trips to Korea, this system helps reduce the stress of waiting in line during entry.

🔋 Mobile battery rules have also changed

In-flight carry-on baggage rules are an often-overlooked point.

Since March 1, 2025, storing mobile batteries in the overhead compartments on board has been prohibited.

They must be kept on your person or in the seat-back pocket.

As detailed procedures may vary by airline, it is also a good idea to check the latest regulations of the airline you plan to fly with.

✅ Packing tip

Keep your mobile battery somewhere that is easy to take out. If you pack it deep inside your suitcase, you will have to take it out again when boarding.

💴 Recommended: Authorized currency exchange offices in Myeongdong

Many people wonder, “Is it safer to exchange money in Japan?”

Generally, bringing Japanese yen and exchanging it locally is often considered more advantageous in terms of exchange rates.

Authorized exchange offices in Myeongdong are considered to offer good rates and are frequently mentioned in reviews by experienced Korea travelers.

However, exchange rates fluctuate depending on the timing and circumstances, so we recommend checking the latest information before departure.

Exchanging money at the airport is convenient, but rates tend to be less favorable than those in the city. At the airport, exchange only enough for transportation, and exchange the rest in the city.

📋 Key points to check before departure

✅ Advance registration checklist

Register for the e-Arrival Card through the official website (www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr) from three days before the date of entry. Having your passport number, expiration date, email address, and flight information ready will make the process smoother.

✅ Baggage tips

Mobile batteries must be kept with you. Bring Japanese yen in cash for currency exchange. Check your passport well in advance to ensure it has sufficient validity.

✨ Summary

☑ Paper entry declaration forms will be discontinued from January 2026, and advance e-Arrival Card registration will be required

☑ K-ETA is exempt until December 31, 2026, and a visa is also unnecessary for tourism

☑ Mobile batteries cannot be stored in overhead compartments; keep them with you or in the seat pocket

☑ Authorized exchange offices in Myeongdong are considered advantageous; bring Japanese yen

☑ The SES gates at Incheon Airport are convenient for repeat visitors after initial registration

☑ Be cautious of e-Arrival Card information from sites other than the official website

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When can I register for the e-Arrival Card?

Registration is available from three days before the date of entry, based on Korea Standard Time. Registration is free and can be completed through the official website (www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr).

Q. Is K-ETA no longer required?

K-ETA is temporarily exempted for eligible countries, including Japan, until December 31, 2026. For tourism purposes, neither a visa nor K-ETA is required, and you can stay for up to 90 days.

Q. Can I put a mobile battery in my suitcase?

Under airline rules, mobile batteries are generally treated as carry-on baggage. From March 1, 2025, storing them in the overhead compartments on board has been prohibited, and they must be kept with you or in the seat-back pocket. Please also check the latest regulations of your airline.

Q. Is it more advantageous to exchange money in Japan or Korea?

Generally, bringing Japanese yen and exchanging it locally is considered more advantageous in terms of exchange rates. Authorized exchange offices in Myeongdong are particularly often recommended. Since exchange rates fluctuate, we recommend checking the latest information before departure.

Q. Do I need to register for the SES gates every time?

Once you register at Incheon Airport the first time, you can continue using the gates while your passport remains valid. The system is especially beneficial for repeat visitors.

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