South Korea to Introduce e-Arrival Card for Easier Travel Starting February 24
2025/02/24
South Korea to Introduce e-Arrival Card for Easier Travel Starting Feb 24
Starting February 24, 2025, visitors to South Korea will be required to complete an e-Arrival Card before entering the country. This digital entry procedure will replace the traditional paper forms by 2026, offering a faster and more convenient travel experience. Here’s everything you need to know about the process, who is exempt, and how to complete the new e-Arrival Card.
Why the e-Arrival Card?
South Korea is stepping into the future with the introduction of the e-Arrival Card, which will transform the way international travelers enter the country. The new system enables visitors to fill out the required form online, making arrivals smoother and faster. By 2026, this digital system will completely replace the need for paper forms, streamlining the immigration process for everyone involved.
This digital shift follows similar systems already in place in other countries like Cambodia, Malaysia, and soon, Thailand. The e-Arrival Card aims to improve the efficiency of entry procedures, benefiting both travelers and immigration authorities.
What Exactly is the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is a digital substitute for the traditional paper form. It collects important travel information such as flight details, arrival dates, and accommodation information. This digital form will help cut down on processing times and reduce potential delays at immigration, allowing travelers to enter South Korea more quickly and with less hassle.
Transition Period until December 2025
The rollout of the e-Arrival Card will begin with a transitional period until December 2025, during which travelers will still have the option to use either paper forms or the online e-Arrival Card. However, starting January 2026, travelers will only be able to submit their entry information digitally before arriving.
Who Needs to Submit the e-Arrival Card?
Almost all international visitors must fill out the e-Arrival Card. This process is free of charge and needs to be completed no later than three days before arriving in South Korea.
Who Is Exempt from the e-Arrival Card?
Certain groups are exempt from the requirement to complete the e-Arrival Card. These include:
Airline crew members
Holders of a valid K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)
Residents of South Korea, including those holding Permanent Resident Cards or Overseas Korean Resident Cards
How to Complete the e-Arrival Card
To complete the e-Arrival Card, travelers will need to visit the official website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr), which is currently being developed. The process involves several steps:
Agree to Terms and Conditions.Before proceeding, travelers must accept the platform’s terms. For travelers under 14 years old, a guardian or family member must complete the form.
Upload Passport Information. Travelers need to upload a copy of their passport’s data page. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology will automatically extract relevant personal details.
Provide Travel Details. This includes information like: Your planned arrival date and flight details, Departure date and flight number, Purpose of your stay in South Korea, Your accommodation address and contact details.
Submit Your Information
After entering all the necessary details, click “Submit.” You can download the completed e-Arrival Card in PDF format or save a screenshot. A confirmation email will be sent to the provided email address. If changes are required, travelers can modify their details before passing through immigration.
Conculsion
South Korea is embracing digital technology to simplify its entry procedures and enhance the overall experience for travelers. By ensuring you complete the e-Arrival Card before your departure, you can avoid delays and enjoy a smoother arrival.
For further assistance with visa requirements or to plan a seamless travel experience, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – Marvel Travels – Corporate & Leisure.
