K-ETA Application Essentials: Processing Time, Fees, and Photo Requirements
K-ETA Application Essentials: Processing Time, Fees, and Photo Requirements
This article is for informational purposes. Always verify with official sources.
K-ETA Eligible and Exempt Countries 💡
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a system where nationals of countries eligible for visa-free entry to South Korea must obtain online travel authorization before entering. In essence, it is not a VISA, but a 'travel authorization'.
Not all foreigners need to apply. The requirement applies to passport holders from countries that have a K-ETA agreement or are eligible for visa-free entry. However, there are several important exemptions.
- Republic of Korea nationals: Obviously, not required.
- Registered aliens in Korea (holding an Alien Registration Card): Exempt as they already possess valid long-term stay status.
- Transit passengers: Not required if you are only transiting in Korea and do not pass through immigration (i.e., you stay within the transit area).
- UN passport holders
Since the introduction of K-ETA, many nationalities previously eligible for visa-free entry must now obtain a K-ETA before arrival. However, some countries may be temporarily exempt from K-ETA based on policy changes. Therefore, before planning your trip, you must check the official K-ETA website to see if your nationality is eligible or exempt.
K-ETA Application Fee and Payment Cards 💳
One of the most common questions about the K-ETA application is the cost. The K-ETA application fee is 10,000 Korean Won (KRW).
An important point here is that this 10,000 KRW is the base fee, and a separate payment gateway (PG) processing fee may be added. Therefore, the actual amount charged might be slightly more than 10,000 KRW (typically in the low 10,000s KRW).
Payment can be made by credit or debit card, and the system supports the following internationally accepted cards:
- VISA
- Mastercard
- JCB
- AMEX (American Express)
- UnionPay
Once the application is submitted, the K-ETA application fee is non-refundable, regardless of the screening result (approval or denial). You will not get your money back even if your application is rejected, so it is crucial to enter all information accurately.
⚠️ Beware of Agency Websites
Applying directly on the official K-ETA website (www.k-eta.go.kr) is the cheapest and safest method. Many 'K-ETA agency sites' that appear in portal searches are not official. They charge exorbitant service fees far exceeding the 10,000 KRW fee. Always check the URL and apply only on the official site.
K-ETA Processing Time (From Application to Approval) ⏱️
The most nerve-wracking part for K-ETA applicants is the 'K-ETA processing time.' Many worry, "It's been a day since I applied, why haven't I received an email yet?"
The official K-ETA website states that processing time "may take up to 72 hours or more depending on the application." This refers to the official maximum screening period.
In practice, if it's not a peak season and there are no issues with the application, many people receive their approval email within 30 minutes to a few hours. However, this is absolutely not a guarantee. System maintenance, application errors, or cases requiring further review can cause it to take the full 72 hours or even longer.
💡 Safe Application Timing
It is recommended to complete your application at least 72 hours (3 days) before your flight. However, to prepare for unforeseen circumstances (denial, needing to re-apply after corrections), the safest approach is to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your travel date.
K-ETA Photo Requirements and Upload Error Solutions 🖼️
The 'face photo registration' is where most applicants run into trouble. K-ETA photo upload errors usually occur because the photo does not meet the specifications. The system compares the uploaded photo with your passport photo to verify your identity, so the standards are very strict.
K-ETA Photo Detailed Specifications
The photo for your K-ETA application follows criteria similar to a passport photo. Preparing this in advance can save you a lot of time.
- File Format: JPG or JPEG image file
- File Size: 100KB or less (This is the most important part)
- Photo Dimensions (Recommended): 700 x 700 pixels
- Face Orientation: Face forward, looking at the camera. Forehead and both ears should be visible.
- Background: Must be a plain white background.
- Expression & Accessories: Neutral expression with mouth closed. Hats, sunglasses, and scarves covering the face are not allowed. (However, religious head coverings are permitted if the entire face is visible).
Common Photo Upload Errors
If you get an "Error" message when uploading your photo, it's likely due to one of these reasons:
- "File size exceeds 100KB." (The most common error)
- "Photo dimensions do not meet the standard."
- "Face recognition failed." (Photo is too dark, blurry, or face is at an angle)
- "Background is not white." (Wallpaper patterns, outdoor scenery, etc.)
Simple Error Fix Tips
The easiest method is to use a digital passport photo file taken within the last 6 months. If you don't have one, you'll need to take a photo with your smartphone.
When using a smartphone: 1. Find a plain white wall in your home to use as a background. 2. Stand under bright lighting to avoid shadows on your face and take a photo looking directly forward.
Fixing Errors (Size/Dimensions): What if your photo is over 100KB or not 700x700? Use your computer's 'Paint' program, an image viewer, or a free online tool that offers 'image resize' or 'image compress' functions. Set the format to JPG, resize to 700x700, and adjust the quality to get the file size under 100KB. This usually solves the problem.
Common Issues with English Address Entry (Postal Code) 📮
Another hurdle in the K-ETA application is the 'English Address Entry'. The address required here is not your home address, but the address of your accommodation in Korea (hotel, Airbnb, etc.).
Entering the address incorrectly can delay the screening. Here is the most accurate way to enter it:
- Check Hotel Confirmation: Find the exact English address and 5-digit postal code on your hotel booking confirmation email or voucher.
- Use Portal Maps: The most accurate method is to search for your accommodation's name on Naver Maps or Kakao Maps and use their "Copy English Address" function.
- Postal Code: The K-ETA address system is based on Korea's 5-digit postal code. You must use the "Search" button in the form to find and enter the correct postal code.
If you are staying at multiple locations, you can enter the address of the first place you will stay or the place you will stay the longest.
Checking K-ETA Results and Action if Denied 📄
After you've submitted the application and payment, it's time to wait for the results. The result will be sent to the email address you provided during the application. You will receive an email with a subject line like 'Approved' or 'Not Approved/Denied'.
Sometimes these emails go to the spam folder, so check there. If you don't receive an email after 72 hours, you can check your status directly on the official K-ETA website under the [Check K-ETA Results] menu by entering your application number or passport number and date of birth.
If Approved: Once approved, the K-ETA authorization is valid for up to 3 years. You do not need to re-apply for K-ETA if you visit Korea again within that period. (However, if your passport changes, you must re-apply).
If Denied/Not Approved: This means you cannot enter South Korea visa-free via K-ETA.
- Fee Refund: The 10,000 KRW application fee is non-refundable.
- Reason for Denial: In most cases, a specific reason for the denial is not provided.
- Re-application: If there was a clear, obvious error in your application (e.g., wrong passport info, bad photo), you can try to re-apply after correcting it.
- Final Action: If you are denied again, you must apply for a formal VISA (for tourism, business, etc.) at the Republic of Korea embassy or consulate in your country of residence to enter Korea.
