Invitation letters for visa purposes are available only to registered participants. The option to issue an invitation letter will be available within the registration process. At the end of registration, participants will be able to generate an invitation letter and will also receive a confirmation email with a link to the letter.
Invitation letters are prepared solely for registered individuals and are sent directly to the participant. We are unable to send invitation letters directly to embassies, consulates, or immigration authorities.
Visa Information for South Korea
All foreign visitors entering the Republic of Korea must hold a valid passport.
Participants should check in advance whether they require a Korean visa before departure. In general, participants from countries without visa exemption agreements with Korea must apply for a Korean visa and receive it in their country of residence before traveling. Participants from countries or regions with visa exemption arrangements may be eligible to enter Korea without a visa, subject to the applicable entry conditions.
Visa requirements depend on nationality, passport type, country of residence, and purpose of travel. Participants are strongly advised to check the official requirements that apply to them before making travel arrangements.
Please use the official Visa Navigator to check whether a visa is required for your nationality and travel purpose.
Arrival in Seoul, South Korea
Upon arrival in Korea, participants may be asked to present documents related to their visit. We recommend carrying printed or digital copies of the following:
- Valid passport
- Korean visa or K-ETA approval, if applicable
- Conference registration confirmation
- Invitation letter, if applicable
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Travel insurance information
- Contact details for your accommodation in Seoul
Travel to Seoul
Seoul is served by two major airports.
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Incheon International Airport is Korea’s main international gateway and is located approximately 50–60 km from central Seoul. Travel options from the airport include airport railroad, airport limousine buses, taxis, and private transfers.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP)
Gimpo International Airport mainly serves domestic and selected regional international routes. It is closer to central Seoul and is connected by public transportation, taxis, and airport services.
Useful Travel Tips
The local currency is the Korean Won (KRW).
Credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, but it is useful to carry some local currency for taxis, small shops, convenience stores, or local markets.
Public transportation in Seoul is efficient and well connected. A transportation card, such as T-money, can be used on subways, buses, and some taxis.
English signage is available in most major subway stations, airports, hotels, and tourist areas.
Participants are encouraged to arrange travel insurance before departure.
K-ETA Application Guide
K-ETA, the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization, is an online travel authorization system for eligible nationals who wish to enter the Republic of Korea without a visa. K-ETA eligible nationals who wish to enter Korea visa-free must obtain K-ETA approval before boarding their flight or ship, unless they are covered by a temporary K-ETA exemption.
K-ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry into the Republic of Korea. The final decision regarding entry is made by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
When to Apply for K-ETA
Participants who are required to apply for K-ETA should do so with sufficient time before departure.
K-ETA assessment is typically completed within 72 hours; however, it may take longer depending on circumstances such as an increased number of applications or the applicant’s individual situation.
Participants are strongly encouraged not to leave the K-ETA application until the last minute.
K-ETA Validity
Each approved K-ETA generally allows multiple visits to the Republic of Korea within its validity period.
The validity period is generally 3 years. However, if the passport expires before the end of the 3-year period, the K-ETA will only be valid until the passport expiration date.
The validity period of K-ETA is separate from the permitted period of visa-free stay. Participants entering Korea with K-ETA cannot stay beyond the visa-free period allowed for their nationality. The permitted period of visa-free stay differs by nationality.
Please check the official K-ETA Application Eligibility Guide for the allowed period of stay that applies to your nationality.
K-ETA Fee
The K-ETA application fee is KRW 10,000 per person, excluding any additional online payment or third-party service fees.
The fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
The K-ETA Center is not responsible for any fees charged by third-party agencies or service providers.
Notice on Temporary Exemption of K-ETA for 22 countries/regions(as of April 1, 2023)
K-ETA will be temporarily exempted to the 22 countries/regions listed below until December 31, 2026.
Kindly note, if a traveler who is eligible for K-ETA temporary exemption wants to apply for K-ETA to receive benefits such as not having to submit an arrival card upon entry, he/she may apply for K-ETA and pay the fee. ※ Previously approved K-ETA will remain valid until its expiry date.
Countries/regions eligible for K-ETA temporary exemption (as of April 1, 2023):
- Asia: Hong Kong, Japan, Macao, Singapore, Taiwan
- Americas: Canada, USA (including Guam)
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, UK
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand