Last Updated on 2025 年 12 月 24 日 by 総合編集組
outh Korea Entry Requirements for Taiwanese Citizens in 2026: Complete Guide to K-ETA, Visa Rules, and Passport Guidelines
Introduction: A Major Policy Shift Ahead Starting January 1, 2026, Taiwanese passport holders planning short-term visits to South Korea for tourism, family visits, or business (up to 90 days) will face a significant change: the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) becomes mandatory. For years, Taiwan has enjoyed visa-free access under bilateral agreements, allowing seamless entry for short stays. However, South Korea introduced the K-ETA system in 2021 as a pre-screening tool for visa-exempt travelers, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. To boost post-pandemic tourism, the government repeatedly extended a temporary exemption, most recently confirmed through December 31, 2025. From 2026 onward, this grace period ends, marking a return to stricter digital border management.
Why the Change Matters for Taiwanese Travelers The exemption extension supported South Korea’s “Visit Korea Year” campaign (2023–2024), aiming to revive inbound tourism after COVID-19. Taiwanese visitors, who form a key market, benefited greatly—no prior application needed, just a valid passport and standard arrival procedures. However, with tourism recovering strongly, the Ministry of Justice has decided to reinstate the K-ETA requirement in 2026 to enhance security, manage visitor flows, and maintain efficient immigration processing. This shift affects all visa-exempt nationalities, including Taiwan, and requires advance planning to avoid travel disruptions.
What Is K-ETA? Key Facts and Purpose K-ETA is an electronic pre-approval system designed for visa-exempt nationals. It requires applicants to submit personal details, travel plans, and background information online before departure. Approval is typically granted within 72 hours, valid for multiple entries over up to 3 years (or until passport expiry). The fee is 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7–8), non-refundable. Importantly, K-ETA is not a visa—it only clears you for boarding and potential entry; immigration officers make the final decision at the border. It serves as a risk-assessment tool to filter potential overstays or security concerns while keeping short-term travel convenient.
Current Status (as of December 2025) Through December 31, 2025, Taiwanese citizens remain exempt from mandatory K-ETA. You may still apply voluntarily to enjoy benefits like skipping the paper arrival card and using faster automated lanes at airports (e.g., Incheon or Gimpo). This option significantly reduces wait times during peak seasons. Starting January 1, 2026, however, approval becomes compulsory for all short-term visa-exempt entries. Failure to obtain K-ETA will prevent boarding on flights or ferries to Korea.
Who Needs K-ETA in 2026?
- Taiwanese passport holders planning stays up to 90 days for tourism, visiting relatives, conferences, cultural events, or non-profit business activities.
- Exclusions: Work, employment (e.g., teaching English), or stays exceeding 90 days require traditional visas (e.g., C-3 or D-type).
Application Process: Step-by-Step for 2026
- Prepare Documents: Valid passport (clear scans of data page), digital passport-style photo, valid email address, and international credit/debit card.
- Apply Officially Only: Use www.k-eta.go.kr or the official K-ETA app. Avoid third-party sites to prevent scams or data breaches.
- Fill Out the Form: Enter personal info, travel purpose, accommodation details, and answer background questions honestly.
- Pay the Fee: 10,000 KRW + possible small transaction fee.
- Submit Early: Apply at least 72 hours before departure; processing usually takes hours to 3 days.
- Receive Approval: Download the PDF confirmation; keep it accessible for check-in and immigration.
Common Reasons for Rejection and Next Steps Rejections often stem from inaccurate information, criminal records, or prior immigration violations. If denied, you lose the visa exemption and must apply for a traditional short-term visa (C-3) at a Korean embassy/consulate. This process involves more documents (financial proof, itinerary, ties to Taiwan), longer processing times, and stricter scrutiny. Providing false details can lead to bans and may affect traveling companions under Korea’s group liability rule.
Passport and Health Requirements
- Passport Validity: Korea requires only that the passport be valid upon entry—no strict 6-month rule. However, airlines often enforce a 6-month validity policy for boarding. Renew early to avoid issues.
- Health Declarations: The Q-Code system (pre-entry health registration) is no longer mandatory for all but may be required for those from high-risk areas or showing symptoms. Check KDCA guidelines before travel.
Practical Tips for Taiwanese Travelers
- Apply early (ideally 7–14 days before) to buffer delays.
- Double-check all entries—errors are costly.
- Monitor updates on official sites, as policies can change.
- Consider voluntary K-ETA now for smoother entry in 2025.
Conclusion The K-ETA mandate from 2026 represents a balanced approach: maintaining Korea’s welcoming tourism image while enhancing border security. For Taiwanese citizens, this means one extra online step for safer, faster travel. Plan ahead, use official channels, and your Korean adventure—whether Seoul’s streets, Jeju’s beaches, or Busan’s culture—will remain hassle-free.
