---
title: South Korea visa for citizens of the United States
description: Citizens of the United States can visit South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days. Documents checklist and application steps.
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-korea/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# South Korea visa for citizens of the United States

Citizens of the United States can visit South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days.

*Not yet verified · last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

> Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Visa-free
- **How to apply:** No visa needed — just go
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Government fee:** No visa fee
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Apply for K-ETA online** — Complete the K-ETA application at the official website.
2. **Pay the application fee** — Pay the non-refundable fee using a credit or debit card.
3. **Receive K-ETA approval** — Check email for approval; print or save digital copy.
4. **Travel to South Korea** — Present passport and K-ETA approval upon arrival; stay up to 90 days.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid US Passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date
- **Digital Photo** (Identity): Passport-style photo for K-ETA application
- **Email Address** (Supporting): For receiving K-ETA approval code
- **Payment Card** (Financial): For paying K-ETA fee

## Good to know

- K-ETA is mandatory for visa-free travel from September 2021.
- Apply for K-ETA at least 72 hours before departure to allow processing time.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or inaccurate application** — Double-check all personal details to match passport exactly.
- **Criminal record or prior immigration violation** — If you have a criminal record, consult the embassy before applying.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of the United States need a visa for South Korea?

Citizens of the United States can visit South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days.

### How long can citizens of the United States stay in South Korea?

Up to 90 days without a visa.

### What documents do citizens of the United States need for South Korea?

Valid US Passport; Digital Photo; Email Address; Payment Card.

### How long must my passport be valid for South Korea?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [South Korea visa for every passport](/visa/south-korea)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)