South Korea entry requirements for Thai citizens (2026)

Visa — not needed (up to 90 days)

Short tourist and business stays are visa-free under Korea's visa-waiver arrangements. Longer stays, work or study still need a visa via HiKorea.

K-ETA — required before boarding

Apply on the official K-ETA site (small fee, ₩10,000) at least 72 hours before departure. Approval is usually fast, but don't leave it to the last minute — airlines check it at check-in.

e-Arrival Card — covered by K-ETA

With a valid K-ETA you don't submit a separate e-Arrival Card — your details are already on file. No K-ETA (e.g. visa holders) → e-Arrival Card is required.

Q-code — only if listed

The Q-code health declaration is only required if you stayed in or transited a quarantine-risk area on KDCA's current list — the Q3 2026 list includes India, parts of China and the USA, Cambodia, Bangladesh and the MERS and Ebola countries. Everyone else skips it — check the official site if you connected through one.

Do Thai citizens need a visa for South Korea in 2026?

No — for stays up to 90 days for tourism or short business, Thai citizens enter visa-free. Work, study and longer stays require a visa.

Do Thai citizens need K-ETA in 2026?

Yes. Thailand is not on Korea's 2026 K-ETA exemption list, so Thai citizens must obtain an approved K-ETA before boarding — apply at least 72 hours before departure.

What is the Korea e-Arrival Card and who must file it?

Since 2026 the e-Arrival Card is Korea's standard arrival declaration (paper cards are still accepted at immigration for now). Foreign visitors must submit it free online within 3 days (72 hours) before arriving in Korea — unless they hold a valid K-ETA, which already covers it. You receive a QR code shown at immigration.

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