As of February 24, 2025, South Korea has officially introduced the e-Arrival Card, a digital entry requirement that replaces the long-standing paper-based declaration form.
This move is part of the country’s efforts to modernize its immigration process, reduce paperwork, and improve efficiency at border control.
Travellers can now submit their e-Arrival Card online before entering South Korea, streamlining the entry process.
While the paper version remains available during the transition period until December 31, 2025, the e-Arrival Card will be the only accepted method starting in 2026.
Who Needs to Submit the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is mandatory for most foreign visitors, but there are some exceptions. Travellers exempt from this requirement include:
- Registered residents of South Korea, including Permanent Resident Card and Overseas Korean Resident Card holders
- Holders of a valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)
- Airline crew members
For everyone else, this digital declaration can be submitted online starting 72 hours before arrival, replacing the need to fill out a paper form at immigration.
Although the paper form is still being accepted during the transition period, travellers are encouraged to switch to the digital system as soon as possible to avoid delays or complications. By 2026, the online submission will be the only option, meaning travellers will no longer be able to fill out a paper form upon arrival.
Why Has South Korea Implemented the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is designed to make travel more efficient by reducing congestion at airports and allowing immigration officers to pre-screen arrivals before they land.
The shift to digital processing is expected to improve the flow of travellers, making entry faster and more convenient.
During my recent arrival at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the experience was far from seamless.
The customs area was already crowded, and having to fill out a paper arrival card while border officers manually reviewed each one only added to the delay.
The entire process felt outdated, particularly when many other countries have already transitioned to digital systems.
With the e-Arrival Card now in place, this transition should help alleviate bottlenecks at immigration and provide a smoother, more convenient entry process for visitors.
How to Apply for South Korea’s e-Arrival Card
The process is…
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