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Does a US passport holder need a visa to go to South Korea?
As of now, U.S. passport holders do not need a visa to enter South Korea for short-term visits. Here are the key details:
Visa-Free Entry for Tourism and Business
- Duration: Up to 90 days.
- Purpose: Tourism, business meetings, attending conferences, or visiting family and friends.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from South Korea.
- Return Ticket: You may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel.
- K-ETA Requirement: As of recent regulations, U.S. citizens do not need to apply for a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) until at least December 31, 2025, as the requirement has been temporarily waived.
When You Would Need a Visa
You do need a visa if you plan to:
- Work or study in South Korea
- Stay longer than 90 days
- Engage in paid activities or internships