Korea’s e-Arrival Card lets eligible foreign visitors submit arrival information online before entering Korea. According to VisitKorea, visitors can submit the form up to three days before entering Korea, based on Korea Standard Time.
Quick Answer
The e-Arrival Card is not a visa and does not replace checking your entry eligibility. It is an online arrival information form for certain inbound passengers. Prepare your passport details, arrival date, flight or vessel information, address in Korea, and contact information before you start.
What the e-Arrival Card Is
The e-Arrival Card is Korea’s electronic version of arrival information that foreign visitors may otherwise provide on a paper arrival card. It is designed to make arrival processing more convenient by allowing travelers to submit information before immigration.
It is not a visa, not a K-ETA, and not proof that you are guaranteed entry. It is one part of the arrival process.
When To Submit It
VisitKorea explains that the form can be submitted up to three days before entering Korea, including the day of arrival, one day prior, or two days prior, based on KST. If the traveler does not enter Korea within 72 hours after submission, the submitted card may no longer be valid.
This timing matters. Do not try to complete it too early. Add a reminder for the correct window before your flight.
What Information You Need
Prepare the following before you open the form:
- Passport information
- Nationality
- Arrival date
- Flight or vessel details
- Address in Korea
- Contact number or emergency contact
- Purpose of visit
- Basic stay information
Use the same passport details you will use at the airport. Typos in passport numbers, names, or dates can create unnecessary confusion.
Who May Not Need It
Some travelers may be exempt from submitting an e-Arrival Card depending on current rules. For example, travelers with certain valid K-ETA status or registered foreign residents may not need to complete the same process.
Because the rules depend on your status, check the official e-Arrival Card website before travel. If the system says you are not required to submit, follow the official message.
Mistakes To Avoid
The biggest mistake is using unofficial paid websites. The official e-Arrival Card system is the correct place to start. Be careful with pages that charge a processing fee or ask for unnecessary information.
Another mistake is entering an incomplete Korean address. If you are staying at a hotel, use the full branch address. If you are staying at a guesthouse or apartment, copy the full address from the booking confirmation.
FAQ
Is the e-Arrival Card the same as K-ETA?
No. K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization for certain visa-free travelers. The e-Arrival Card is an arrival information form.
When can I submit the e-Arrival Card?
VisitKorea states that visitors can submit it up to three days before entering Korea, based on Korea Standard Time.
Do I need to print the submitted form?
VisitKorea states that visitors can download a PDF after submission, but it is not a requirement for entry inspection.
Can someone submit it for a child?
VisitKorea states that for visitors under 14 years old, a family member or another person must complete the declaration form on their behalf.