출처 : SONOW
Successful entry into Korea requires comprehensive documentation preparation to ensure smooth immigration processing. This essential checklist covers mandatory documents, recommended preparations, and purpose-specific requirements that all international travelers must understand before departure.
Valid Electronic Passport with Minimum 3-Month Validity
All travelers must possess a valid electronic passport (e-passport) with an embedded electronic chip containing biometric information. The passport must maintain at least 3 months of validity from the intended entry date into Korea, with additional validity recommended for extended stays.
Electronic passports are identifiable by the international biometric symbol on the cover and contain RFID chips storing the holder's photograph, fingerprints, and other identifying information. Older passport formats without electronic chips may not be accepted for certain streamlined entry processes.
Travelers should verify their passport's electronic functionality before departure, as damaged chips or worn passport covers may cause processing delays at immigration checkpoints. Emergency travel documents or temporary passports may have limited acceptance depending on bilateral agreements.
Visa Authorization or K-ETA Approval Documentation
Travelers not eligible for visa-free entry must possess valid visas appropriate to their travel purpose, obtained from Korean consular offices in their country of residence. Visa validity periods and entry permissions vary by visa type and nationality.
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) holders must carry approval confirmation numbers and ensure their authorization remains valid for their intended travel dates. K-ETA approvals are linked electronically to passport numbers but travelers should maintain confirmation records.
Multiple-entry visas require verification of remaining entry permissions, while single-entry visas must align precisely with travel plans. Visa extensions or changes typically require departure from Korea and reapplication through appropriate channels.
e-Arrival Card Submission Confirmation Requirements
The electronic Arrival Card (e-Arrival Card) must be submitted online between 3 days before departure and the moment of entry into Korea. Submission confirmation emails serve as proof of compliance with digital entry declaration requirements.
Travelers should retain confirmation numbers and submission receipts, though physical printouts are not required at immigration checkpoints. The digital system automatically links submissions to passport information for electronic verification during entry processing.
Failed or incomplete e-Arrival Card submissions may result in manual processing delays, making advance completion essential for efficient immigration clearance. Group travelers should ensure all members have valid individual submissions.
Flight Reservation and Onward Travel Documentation
Round-trip flight confirmations or proof of onward travel to third countries demonstrate intended departure from Korea and satisfy immigration requirements for temporary visitors. Open-ended or one-way tickets may require additional documentation or explanation.
Flight reservation confirmations should include booking reference numbers, passenger names matching passport information, and clear departure dates from Korea. Travelers with complex itineraries should carry comprehensive travel documentation showing their complete journey.
Changes to flight reservations after arrival may require notification to immigration authorities, particularly for travelers on tourist or short-term visas with specific departure date commitments.
Accommodation Verification and Contact Information
Proof of accommodation arrangements includes hotel reservations, guesthouse bookings, or invitation letters from Korean hosts. This documentation verifies travelers' intended residence during their stay and provides contact information for potential communication needs.
Private accommodation arrangements with friends or family require host information including Korean address, contact numbers, and relationship to the traveler. Official invitation letters may be necessary for certain visa categories or extended stays.
Accommodation changes during the stay should be reported through appropriate channels, particularly for travelers on work or study visas with registered address requirements.
Health Documentation and Q-Code Registration
While not mandatory for all travelers, Q-Code health information pre-registration is strongly recommended for streamlined health screening processes. This system allows advance submission of health status, recent travel history, and contact information.
Travelers from certain regions or with specific health considerations may face mandatory health declaration requirements. Current health documentation standards may change based on global health conditions and Korean public health policies.
Vaccination records, health insurance coverage, and medical prescriptions should be readily available, particularly for travelers with ongoing medical conditions or carrying prescription medications.
Purpose-Specific Additional Documentation Requirements
Employment-related travel requires work permits, employer invitation letters, and professional qualification documents. Educational visitors need acceptance letters, enrollment confirmations, and academic transcripts as appropriate to their study programs.
Family visit purposes may require relationship documentation, sponsor information, and financial support evidence. Business travelers should carry company letters, meeting confirmations, and professional credentials relevant to their visit purpose.
Investment or business establishment visitors need comprehensive business plans, financial documentation, and legal papers supporting their commercial activities in Korea.
Documentation Best Practices: Travelers should maintain both physical copies in carry-on luggage and digital backups of all essential documents. Clear, concise responses to immigration questions and organized document presentation facilitate smooth entry processing and demonstrate preparation for legitimate travel purposes.