Visa Requirements for South Korean Citizens

South Korean citizens can visit 190+ countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival in 2025. This includes the United States (90 days with ESTA), United Kingdom (180 days), all 29 Schengen countries (90 days), Canada (180 days with eTA), Australia (90 days with ETA), Japan (90 days), Singapore (90 days), Thailand (90 days), and most of South America. South Korea has one of the world's most powerful passports, ranked 2nd globally for travel freedom.

The US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) costs $40 (approximately ₩56,000) for South Korean citizens as of September 2025. ESTA allows South Koreans to visit the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. The authorization is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows unlimited entries during that period.

No, South Korean citizens do not need a visa to visit the United Kingdom. South Koreans can enter the UK visa-free for stays up to 180 days (6 months) for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. No advance registration or electronic authorization is required. Simply present your valid South Korean passport at UK border control.

The Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) costs CAD $7 (approximately ₩7,000 or $5 USD) for South Korean citizens. The eTA is required for visa-free air travel to Canada and can be applied for online in minutes. Once approved, it is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, and allows stays of up to 180 days per visit.

As of late 2024, South Korean citizens can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. This visa-free policy is valid through 2025. For longer stays or other purposes, South Koreans can apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Seoul. Single-entry visa fees start at 46,000 KRW (approximately $33 USD) for regular processing.

For US ESTA and Canada eTA applications, South Korean citizens need: a valid South Korean passport with at least 6 months validity, an email address for confirmation, a credit or debit card for payment, basic travel information including accommodation address, and employment details. Applications are completed online and typically approved within minutes to 72 hours.

Despite having one of the world's strongest passports, South Korean citizens still need advance visas for some countries including: Russia (tourist visa required), India (eVisa available for $25 to $100), Brazil (visa required for stays over 90 days), Cuba (tourist card required), and some African nations like Nigeria and Ghana. Most of these visas can be applied for online or at embassy locations in Seoul.

The Australia ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) costs AUD $20 (approximately ₩18,000 or $13 USD) for South Korean citizens. The ETA allows multiple entries for tourism or business visits of up to 90 days each over a 12-month period. Apply online through the Australian ETA app or official immigration website. Processing is usually instant or within 12 hours.

To make the most of South Korea's powerful passport: keep your passport valid for at least 6 months beyond planned travel dates, apply for ESTA and Canada eTA in advance even without immediate travel plans since they are valid for 2 to 5 years, download the Australia ETA app for quick authorization, carry proof of return tickets and accommodation for immigration checks, and ensure you have travel insurance especially for longer trips to Europe or North America.