South Korea Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: For a tourist trip of up to 90 days, your passport just needs to expire after the day you leave South Korea. British nationals don't need a K-ETA until 31 December 2026, but you must have an onward or return ticket.
South Korea travel requirements at a glance
Must expire after you leave (tourists)
Visa free for up to 90 days
UK nationals exempt until 31 Dec 2026
Paper or free e-Arrival card
Official source: GOV.UK South Korea entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Tourist passports must be valid beyond the departure date
- Visa-free visits of up to 90 days with an onward ticket
- K-ETA not needed by British nationals until 31 December 2026
- Arrival card required, with a free online option
Passport validity for South Korea
If you are visiting as a tourist for up to 90 days, your passport must have an expiry date after the day you leave South Korea.
If you are entering on a long-term visa, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the day you arrive.
Visa-free entry and K-ETA
British visitors can stay up to 90 days for tourism or short-term business without a visa, but must hold an onward or return ticket. Working is not allowed.
South Korea normally requires a K-ETA, but British nationals are exempt until 31 December 2026. If you need one, apply only on the official site.
Arrival card and health checks
You must hand in an arrival card on arrival or submit a free e-Arrival card online up to 72 hours before.
If you have symptoms of illness, you must complete a Q-Code or paper health questionnaire, as the UK is currently a Quarantine Inspection Required Area.
Check your passport now
Use our free checker to see whether your passport looks valid for this trip.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for South Korea?
Not as a tourist staying up to 90 days. Your passport only needs to expire after the date you leave. Long-term visa holders should have 6 months from arrival.
Do I need a K-ETA for South Korea?
British nationals travelling visa-free are temporarily exempt from K-ETA until 31 December 2026.
Do I need a visa for South Korea?
Not for tourism or short-term business of up to 90 days, as long as you have an onward or return ticket.