Costa Rica passport → South Korea

South Korea visa for citizens of Costa Rica

eTAK-ETA · Tourist/Business (90 days)

Citizens of Costa Rica don't need a visa for South Korea but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling.

Official application site

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	eTA · K-ETA · Tourist/Business (90 days)
How to apply	Electronic travel authorization (online)
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	730 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	Up to 3 days
Government fee	$9
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required

How to apply

1
Access K-ETA official website
Go to https://www.k-eta.go.kr/ and select language (English available).
2
Complete online application form
Enter personal details, passport info, travel plans, and upload photo.
3
Pay the application fee
Pay approximately 10,000 KRW via credit/debit card.
4
Submit application
Review and submit; you will receive a confirmation email.
5
Receive K-ETA approval
Approval is typically emailed within 24-72 hours; check spam folder.
6
Travel to South Korea
Present the approved K-ETA (printed or digital) upon arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (Costa Rica)
Must have at least 6 months validity from intended entry date.
Digital passport photo
Recent color photo, white background, 35x45mm.

Financial

Payment method (credit/debit card)
Fee of approximately 10,000 KRW (about 9 USD).

Supporting

Email address
For receiving K-ETA approval and updates.

Good to know

K-ETA must be approved before boarding; apply at least 72 hours before departure.
Approval is not guaranteed; ensure all information matches passport exactly.
K-ETA is valid for 2 years from approval date, for multiple entries up to 90 days each.

Common refusal reasons

Incorrect or incomplete personal information

Double-check all entries against your passport before submitting.

Criminal record or previous immigration violations

Disclose any relevant history honestly; if in doubt, consult the embassy.

Photo does not meet specifications

Use a recent, high-quality photo with white background and no accessories.

FAQ

Do citizens of Costa Rica need a visa for South Korea?

Citizens of Costa Rica don't need a visa for South Korea but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Visa type: K-ETA · Tourist/Business (90 days).

How long can citizens of Costa Rica stay in South Korea?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the South Korea visa cost for citizens of Costa Rica?

Government fee: $9.

How long does South Korea visa processing take?

Typically Up to 3 days.

What documents do citizens of Costa Rica need for South Korea?

Valid passport (Costa Rica); Digital passport photo; Email address; Payment method (credit/debit card).

How long must my passport be valid for South Korea?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.k-eta.go.kr/

Sources

k-eta.go.kr

Plan your trip to South Korea

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