KETA vs Visa How to Determine the Right Option for Your Trip
If you are planning a trip to Korea, you may need to apply for either KETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) or a visa, depending on your nationality and travel purpose.
Although both allow entry into Korea, they serve different purposes and have distinct application processes.
Here’s what you need to know about the differences between KETA and a visa.
1. What is KETA?
KETA is an electronic travel authorization required for short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries.
It is a mandatory permit for those traveling to Korea for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, or visiting relatives for up to 90 days.
The application process is entirely online through ETAPORTAL, and approval is typically granted within 72 hours. Once approved, KETA remains valid for three years or until your passport expires. It is a quick and convenient way for eligible travelers to enter Korea without applying for a traditional visa.
2. What is a Visa?
A visa is a formal document issued by the Korean government, required for travelers who do not qualify for KETA or who intend to stay for long-term purposes such as work, study, or immigration.
Unlike KETA, applying for a visa requires visiting a Korean embassy or consulate and submitting supporting documents, which may include proof of employment, financial stability, or sponsorship. Processing times can take several weeks to months, depending on the visa type.
Visas also allow longer stays, with durations varying based on the applicant’s purpose. Unlike KETA, which is limited to short visits, visas are necessary for those planning to reside in Korea for extended periods.
3. Key Differences Between KETA and a Visa
The biggest distinction between KETA and a visa lies in who needs it and how long they plan to stay.
KETA is for short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries and allows stays of up to 90 days for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. It requires an online application and is usually processed within three days.
A visa, on the other hand, is for long-term stays or special purposes such as employment, education, or immigration. It requires a detailed application process through an embassy, with processing times ranging from a few weeks to months. The stay duration depends on the specific visa type.
Another key difference is validity. KETA is valid for three years, allowing multiple short-term visits, while a visa is issued for a specific period depending on its type.
4. Do You Need KETA or a Visa?
You need KETA if you:
- Are from a visa-exempt country
- Plan to visit Korea for tourism, business, or short-term family visits
- Will stay in Korea for 90 days or less
You need a visa if you:
- Are from a non-visa-exempt country
- Plan to work, study, or stay in Korea long-term
- Require a specialized visa type, such as a student or employment visa
5. Which One is Easier to Apply For?
For short-term travelers, KETA is the easiest and fastest option since it can be completed online and processed within 72 hours. It is ideal for those who meet the eligibility requirements and only need a temporary visit.
For those planning to stay in Korea for work, study, or long-term residence, a visa is necessary. However, the visa application process is more complex, requiring additional documents and longer processing times.
Apply for KETA Now via ETAPORTAL
To travel according to your planned itinerary, it is important to obtain the correct entry authorization. If you are eligible for KETA, apply online through ETAPORTAL to ensure a smooth entry into Korea.
