To streamline entry into Korea, the e-arrival Card replaces the traditional paper arrival card, allowing travellers to submit their entry information online up to three days before arrival, starting February 24, 2025. Both paper and digital options will be accepted during the transition period (until December 2025). Still, this travel document will become mandatory afterward. Submission is free and easy via the official website on PC or mobile, which is required for most short-term visitors and those staying longer without residence registration. Completing the e-Arrival Card ensures a smooth and hassle-free start to your Korean adventure!
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What is the e-Arrival Card?
The e-Arrival Card is Korea’s new digital entry system that replaces traditional paper-based arrival forms. Introduced on February 24, 2025, this online submission system allows you as a traveller to enter your arrival information before landing in Korea, saving time and hassle at the airport. You can complete the form up to three days before your arrival and submit it via the official e-Arrival Card website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr).
How is the e-Arrival Card Different from Paper-Based Arrival Forms?
The biggest difference? Convenience and efficiency. Instead of filling out a paper form mid-flight or standing in line to get one, you can now submit your information online—from your home, the airport lounge, or while waiting to board. Additionally:
- No Paper Required: Say goodbye to lost forms or last-minute scrambling. Everything is digital.
- Faster Immigration Processing: Pre-submitted information helps streamline the entry process.
- Multiple Submission Options: Individual and group submissions (up to 1000 people) are possible.
Though the paper-based version will still be available during the transition period until December 2025, only the e-arrival Card will be accepted.
Who Needs to Submit an E-Arrival Card?
Most foreign travellers entering Korea for short-term stays (up to 90 days) must submit an e-Arrival Card.
However, there are a few exceptions:
- K-ETA Holders: Those with a valid Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) are exempt. Read our K-ETA: The Ultimate Guide for detailed information.
- Residents with Valid Registration: Foreign residents with valid residence or permanent registration are not required to submit.
- Airline Crew and Group Visa Holders: These travelers do not need to submit an e-Arrival Card.
For travellers under 14, a parent or guardian must complete the form on their behalf. Likewise, multiple entries can be handled through group submissions, making it easier for tour groups and families to manage the process.
When to Submit the e-Arrival Card?
This card can be submitted up to three days before your arrival in Korea. This means you can complete and submit the form on:
- The day of arrival
- One day prior
- Two days prior
It’s important to note that submission is based on Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9), so double-check the time difference if you’re submitting from another country.
Validity of the e-Arrival Card
Once submitted, the card remains valid for 72 hours (3 days). Suppose you don’t enter Korea within this period. In that case, the Card becomes invalid, and you’ll need to submit a new one before attempting to enter the country. Pro Tip: Don’t leave it to the last minute! Submitting your document in advance allows time to double-check your details and avoid any last-minute issues.
How to Submit e-Arrival Card?
All submissions should be made through the official website at e-arrivalcard.go.kr. The website is accessible via PC and mobile devices, making it convenient for travellers to submit their forms anytime, anywhere.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Website: Head over to e-arrivalcard.go.kr.
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
- Enter Passport Information: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
- Input Travel Itinerary: Provide your arrival and departure details, accommodation address, and contact information.
- Double-check your Details: Review your submission to ensure accuracy.
- Submit and Relax! Your e-arrival Card is now ready for immigration.
Although it’s unnecessary to print or download a copy of your document for inspection, it’s a good idea to save a screenshot or download the PDF version, just in case.
By submitting your e-Arrival Card in advance, you’ll breeze through immigration and be ready to explore everything Korea has to offer—from vibrant cities and traditional palaces to mouthwatering street food and scenic landscapes.
Required Information for Submission
Submitting this travel pass is as easy as watching your favourite K-drama—but make sure you have the correct info ready! To complete the submission, you’ll need:
- Passport Bio Page: Upload a clear image of your passport’s biographic page. Pro tip: Avoid glare or smudges—it’s not a photoshoot, but crisp quality matters.
- Arrival and Departure Dates: Whether you’re staying for a whirlwind K-pop concert or an extended foodie adventure, enter your dates correctly.
- Flight Details: Pop in your flight number(s) and airline information. Remember, guessing isn’t an option here!
- Purpose of Visit: Are you visiting for leisure or business or to experience Korea’s fantastic street food? Select the appropriate reason.
- Contact and Residence Info: Provide your contact details and the address of your first accommodation. The initial stay info will do even if you’re hopping between cities.
Group and Family Submissions
Travelling with family or a whole squad? Good news! You can submit for multiple people in one go—no need for everyone to fill it out separately.
- For Groups or Agencies: You can submit for 2 to 1000 people at once, making it easy for tour groups and large families.
- For Minors Under 14: Kids under 14 can’t submit their e-Arrival Cards, so an adult must fill it out. Whether it’s your adorable little one or your cool teenager, include their details correctly.
Pro Tip: Double-check all group info—one typo can delay everyone’s plans!
FAQs
Here’s a collection of the most common questions—answered with all the most basic information you need to breeze through Korea’s entry process like a pro.
What is the e-Arrival Card, and who needs to submit it?
The e-Arrival Card is Korea’s new digital alternative to the traditional paper arrival form. Launched on February 24, 2025, it allows short-term visitors (up to 90 days) and long-term visitors (without residence registration) to submit their entry details online.
When should I submit my e-arrival Card?
You can submit your e-Arrival Card up to 3 days before you arrive in Korea. The countdown begins 72 hours before your intended entry date, so you’re good to go whether you arrive on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
What happens if I submit my e-arrival Card but don’t enter Korea within 72 hours?
Oops! If you don’t enter Korea within 72 hours after submission, your e-arrival Card becomes invalid, which means… yup you’ll have to submit a new form.
Can I submit the e-arrival Card for my kids?
Absolutely! If you’re traveling with children under 14, an adult (that’s you!) must complete and submit the form on their behalf. For group or family trips, you can also submit a Group e-Arrival Card for 2 to 1000 people, making life much easier for family reunions and group vacations.
What information do I need to complete the e-arrival Card?
To complete the submission process smoothly, you’ll need:
- A clear image of your passport bio page
- Your arrival and departure dates
- Flight details (airline, flight number, etc.)
- Your purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
- Your contact and residence info in Korea
Pro Tip: Double-check your information before hitting submit! A tiny typo can lead to unnecessary hassle.
Do I need to print my e-arrival Card after submission?
Nope, no need to waste paper! You can download the PDF version of your submitted e-Arrival Card, but it’s not required for immigration clearance. Best Practice: Save a copy of the PDF or take a screenshot in case your Wi-Fi decides to nap at the airport!
Can I edit or resubmit my e-arrival Card after submission?
Did you make a mistake? No worries! You can quickly check and edit the information you submit using your issue number or email verification on the official website. However, once the 72-hour window has passed, you must submit a new form if any corrections are needed.
Is there a fee for submitting the e-Arrival Card?
Nope, zero, nada, zilch! Submitting the e-Arrival Card is 100% free. Beware of scams: If a website asks for payment, it’s a fake website. Always use the official site: e-arrivalcard.go.kr.
Can I access the e-Arrival Card website from anywhere in the world?
Almost anywhere! However, travellers submitting from China or certain regions might encounter access issues. If that happens, try using a VPN or an alternative network.
Is the e-Arrival Card the same as K-ETA?
Nope! The e-Arrival Card and K-ETA are two different things.
- K-ETA is required for visa-free travellers entering Korea.
- E-Arrival Card is for submitting entry information online—think of it as replacing the paper arrival form.
You don’t need to submit an e-Arrival Card if you have a valid K-ETA.
How do I check the status of my e-arrival Card?
To check your status, head over to e-arrival Card.go.kr and enter either:
- Your Issue Number OR
- Use Email Verification
Once verified, you can see your submission status and make any necessary edits.
What should I do if I encounter errors while submitting my e-arrival Card?
Technical gremlins can happen! If you encounter errors:
- Refresh your browser and try again.
- Switch devices or try submitting from a different browser.
- If the problem persists, contact e-Arrival Card customer support through the official website for assistance.
Can I submit a new one if my travel plans change?
Yes! If your travel dates or flight details change after submission, resubmit a new form with the updated information.
What happens if I forget to submit the e-Arrival Card?
Don’t panic! If you forget to submit the form before arrival, you’ll likely need to fill out a paper arrival form upon entry. However, submitting the e-Arrival Card online beforehand is best to avoid long queues and unnecessary stress.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the e-Arrival Card is your fast pass to enjoying everything Korea offers, from the serene palaces of Gyeongbokgung to the vibrant nightlife of Hongdae. So, plan, submit early, and get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Korea—without breaking a sweat at immigration!
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