Do I need a visa to visit South Korea from the UK: Entry guide

Planning a trip to South Korea? Whether you're heading to the neon-lit streets of Seoul or the bamboo forests of Damyang, there are some logistical details to sort out first.

We’ve got you covered: this guide breaks down the entry and visa requirements for the East Asian country of South Korea.

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Do I need a visa to visit South Korea from the UK?

No. British citizens travelling from the UK can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days for short term tourism.

You’ll need a visa if you plan to work or study — even for a short period of time — or stay longer than 90 days.¹

Non-British passport holders travelling from the UK may also need a visa depending on their nationality.

Entry Requirements for South Korea

British citizens are exempt through December 2026 from needing a ‘K-ETA’ pass, which allows travel to South Korea (for tourism or business purposes) through the country’s electronic travel authorisation system.²

Instead, you’ll need to fill out an online arrival declaration - called the e-arrival card - up to 72 hours before arrival.³

You'll only need to show a UK passport valid for the duration of your stay in South Korea.

If you enter the country on a long-term visa, your passport will need to have an expiry date six months later than your date of arrival.

You'll also need to keep proof of onward/return travel, as you might be asked to present it at the border.¹

Types of visas available

If you’re visiting South Korea as a tourist, you’ll only need to fill out an e-arrival card, which is phasing out paper arrival cards at the border.

British citizens are currently exempt from needing a K-ETA. However, you can still opt to fill one out instead of an e-arrival card. It will be valid for three years after it’s approved, meaning it can be used for multiple visits within this time.⁴

There are several other types of visas available to British citizens who’d like to travel to South Korea for longer than 90 days, or to teach or study.

The following table breaks down the most common types of visas for UK citizens planning for a stay in South Korea.⁵

How to apply for a visa

• The e-Arrival Card can be completed online up to 72 hours before arrival.
• If applying for a K-ETA, submit your application at least 72 hours before travel via the official website. Avoid third-party sites, which may charge unnecessary fees.

For long-term, work or study visas:

• UK applicants apply through the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in London
• Applications are started and tracked via the Korea Visa Portal
• Most applications are submitted by post

Typical supporting documents⁶

• Valid passport (usually with at least 6 months’ validity)
• Recent passport photo
• Additional documents depending on visa type (e.g. job offer, university acceptance, proof of funds)
• Payment of visa and service/processing fees

How much does the visa cost?

An e-arrival card is completely free of charge. Only third party websites will charge a fee.

A K-ETA costs 10,000 Korean won (KRW), or approximately 5 to 6 GBP. It’s possible to pay this fee by credit or debit card via the official application website.³

The costs for other types of visas will vary widely depending on where you apply, and the duration of your stay. You can check and confirm the up-to-date fees on the Korea Visa Portal.

Travel with Wise to save on currency conversion

British citizens don’t need a visa for visiting South Korea for tourism for up to a 90 day period. They are currently exempt from the K-ETA electronic travel authorisation, but will still need to fill out an e-arrival card.

However, if you’re planning on working, studying or staying longer in the country, there are several visa options at your disposal which can easily be applied for in advance of arrival.

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FAQs

What travel documents do I need to visit South Korea from the UK?

If you’re visiting South Korea as a tourist, you’ll need to bring your passport (valid through the duration of your stay), and proof of onward or return travel. A K-ETA travel authorisation for British tourists is currently not required until the end of 2026.⁷

When should I apply for a K-ETA to visit South Korea?

Travellers are required to submit their K-ETA at least 72 hours before boarding their flight. But to be on the safe side you should apply a week or two before departure to leave room for any unexpected delays or departures.

Are any vaccinations required for travel to South Korea?

There are no required vaccinations, but it’s recommended that UK travellers are vaccinated against tetanus and MMR.⁸

Is it better to pay with cash or card in South Korea?

In South Korea, debit and credit cards account for the vast majority of payments, with more people also using digital payment methods.

Sources used for this article:

Sources checked on 11-December-2025