United States ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)
Electronic System for Travel Authorization · For South Korea citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a South Korean citizen? You're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, meaning you don't need a traditional visa. Simply apply for an ESTA online for $21 (increasing to $40 from September 2025). Approval typically comes within 72 hours, allowing stays up to 90 days for tourism or business.
US ESTA for South Korean Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Korea citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be an electronic passport (e-Passport) with a chip
Complete the online ESTA application on the official CBP website
US address and contact details for your stay
Current employer name and address
What is ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a mandatory screening system for travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries, including South Korea.1 It is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization that allows you to board flights to the US.
South Korea has been part of the Visa Waiver Program since 2008, making US travel straightforward for Korean citizens.2
Application Process
1. Visit the Official ESTA Website
Go to esta.cbp.dhs.gov (the only official site).1 The application is available in Korean. Beware of unofficial websites that charge extra fees.
2. Create an Application
Click “New Application” and choose individual or group application. Enter your passport details exactly as they appear.
3. Complete the Questionnaire
Answer questions about your travel plans, employment, and eligibility. Questions cover criminal history, health conditions, and previous US travel issues.
4. Pay the Fee
The ESTA costs $21 (increasing to $40 from September 30, 2025).4 Pay by credit or debit card.
5. Receive Authorization
Most applications receive instant approval. Check your status at the ESTA website if you don’t receive immediate confirmation.
Fees
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ESTA (until Sept 29, 2025) | $21 | Valid for 2 years |
| ESTA (from Sept 30, 2025) | $40 | Valid for 2 years |
| B1/B2 Visa (if needed) | $185 | For stays over 90 days |
The ESTA fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied.1
What ESTA Allows
Under the Visa Waiver Program, South Korean citizens can:2
- Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting family and friends, attending events
- Business: Meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, training
- Transit: Connecting flights through US airports
- Medical treatment: Receiving medical care in the US
What You Cannot Do
The ESTA does not permit:2
- Working for a US employer (even remotely while in the US)
- Studying in a degree program
- Staying longer than 90 days
- Extending your stay or changing status
- Receiving payment from US sources
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | Up to 72 hours |
| Most applications | Within minutes |
Apply at least 72 hours before departure.1 There is no expedited processing as most applications are approved almost instantly.
If You Need a B1/B2 Visa Instead
Some South Korean citizens cannot use ESTA and must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa:3
- Previous US visa denial
- Previous overstay or deportation
- Travel to certain restricted countries
- Criminal convictions
- Need to stay longer than 90 days
The B1/B2 visa costs $185 and requires an interview at the US Embassy in Seoul.3 Current wait times for interview appointments are approximately 11 days.3
At the US Border
Having an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry. At immigration, officers may ask about:2
- Purpose of your visit
- Where you will stay
- How long you plan to stay
- Proof of return travel
- Financial means for your trip
Be prepared with hotel reservations, return flight details, and evidence of ties to South Korea.
Tips for South Korean Travellers
- Apply early: Submit your ESTA as soon as you book travel, not last minute
- Use official site only: esta.cbp.dhs.gov is the only legitimate site
- Check before each trip: Verify your ESTA is still valid before booking flights
- Keep records: Save your ESTA confirmation number
- 90-day limit is strict: You cannot extend or reset by visiting Canada or Mexico
- Trips to Canada/Mexico count: Days in neighboring countries count toward your 90-day limit
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Previous Visa Denial or Overstay
Applicants who have previously been denied a US visa or overstayed a previous visit may be ineligible for ESTA.
How to avoid: If you've had visa issues before, apply for a B1/B2 visa instead. You can explain circumstances during the interview.
Criminal History
Certain criminal convictions, including drug offences and crimes of moral turpitude, make you ineligible for the Visa Waiver Program.
How to avoid: Be honest in your application. If you have a criminal record, consult the US Embassy about whether you qualify for VWP or need a visa.
Travel to Certain Countries
Travel to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen after March 2011 may affect eligibility.
How to avoid: If you've visited these countries, you may still be eligible for a B1/B2 visa. Contact the US Embassy for guidance.
Dual Nationality Issues
Dual nationals of certain countries (Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria) are not eligible for ESTA regardless of which passport they use.
How to avoid: If you hold dual nationality with a restricted country, apply for a B1/B2 visa instead.
Application Errors
Incorrect passport details or inconsistent information can cause denial.
How to avoid: Triple-check your passport number and personal details match exactly. If denied due to errors, you can reapply immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Korean citizens need a visa for the USA?
No, South Korea is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). South Korean citizens can travel to the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. You need an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before travel.
How long can South Koreans stay in the US without a visa?
With an approved ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program, South Korean citizens can stay up to 90 days per visit. This cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa before traveling.
How much does the US ESTA cost?
The ESTA costs $21 as of early 2025. From September 30, 2025, the fee will increase to $40. The fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied.
How long does ESTA approval take?
Most ESTA applications are approved within minutes. However, you should apply at least 72 hours before departure as some applications require additional review.
How long is the ESTA valid?
An approved ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries to the US during this period.
Can I work in the US with an ESTA?
No, the ESTA and Visa Waiver Program do not permit employment. You can attend business meetings and conferences, but not work for a US employer. For work purposes, you need a work visa.
When should I apply for ESTA?
Apply at least 72 hours before your flight. However, we recommend applying as soon as you book travel, as you can apply months in advance. Your ESTA remains valid for 2 years.
What if I need to stay longer than 90 days?
You cannot extend an ESTA stay. If you need more than 90 days, apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa at the US Embassy in Seoul before traveling. Wait times for B1/B2 appointments are currently about 11 days.