To complete your K-ETA check status, visit k-eta.go.kr and navigate to Application Results. Enter your passport number and date of birth (non-member) or log in (member). Your status appears as OK, Selectee, Not OK, or Under Assessment. Results are also emailed.
Published: 15 September 2026. All facts verified against k-eta.go.kr and immigration.go.kr as external sources.
What Is K-ETA and Why Tracking Your Status Matters
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a mandatory pre-screening system for visa-free foreign visitors from 112 eligible countries, including the United Kingdom. The 10,000 KRW (≈ USD 7-8) application fee is non-refundable. An approved K-ETA carries a validity period of 2 years with multiple entries.
K-ETA is distinct from the e-Arrival Card (e-entry Declaration) – the latter is free and submitted within 3 days before arrival. Tracking your K-ETA status matters because airlines deny boarding without approval. The i-PreChecking system verifies K-ETA digitally at check-in – no printout required. Some nationalities are temporarily exempt through 2026 (notice: 20 March 2026); UK citizens currently require K-ETA.
How to Complete Your K-ETA Check Status Online
K-ETA status can be checked at k-eta.go.kr via a registered-member login or a non-member inquiry using your passport number and date of birth. A K-ETA mobile app is also available on the App Store and Google Play Store.
Member Path
- Visit k-eta.go.kr and log in to your registered account.
- Navigate to Application Results.
- View all application details and current status at once.
Non-Member Path
Visit k-eta.go.kr
and click Application Results
Select non-member inquiry
Choose the non-member option
Enter your details
passport number and date of birth to view status
Results are also emailed. Note (13 March 2026): Gmail,, and other providers may delay K-ETA emails – check spam or query the portal directly.
What Each K-ETA Status Means
K-ETA applications return one of four statuses: OK (approved), Selectee (secondary inspection), Not OK (refused), or Under Assessment (pending review). An approved K-ETA is valid for 2 years with multiple entries.
| Status | Meaning | What It Means for You | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| OK | Approved | K-ETA granted; exempt from arrival card submission. | Proceed to airport. Airlines verify via i-PreChecking; printout recommended as backup. |
| Selectee | Secondary inspection | Routine check. Not a refusal. Requires in-depth interview at port of entry. Exempt from arrival card. | Bring passport, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, return ticket. |
| Not OK | Refused/denied | Application not approved. Cannot appeal online. | Apply for a traditional visa (e.g., C-3 tourist visa) through a Korean embassy or consulate. |
| Under Assessment / Pending | Under review | Processing typically within 72 hours; manual reviews may extend several days. | Wait for email or check portal again later. |
K-ETA Processing Times and What to Expect
Standard processing: 72 hours. Automated checks assess passenger reliability; flagged applications undergo manual review (several days). Apply at least 72 hours before departure (7+ days recommended). No expedited processing – all applications processed in order received. Weekends and Korean public holidays may extend timelines.
Beware of phishing sites charging high fees under the pretext of K-ETA agency or expedited services. Only k-eta.go.kr is the legitimate portal; the K-ETA fee is fixed at 10,000 KRW.
What to Do If Your K-ETA Application Is Delayed
If no decision appears after 72 hours:
Check email spam/junk folder
(Gmail, deliveries may be delayed).
Verify the 10,000 KRW fee was processed
Confirm entered data
(passport number, DOB, nationality).
Do NOT submit a duplicate application
Wait the full 72 hours
Submit an inquiry via “Ask Us”
at k-eta.go.kr.
Include your reference number
in the inquiry.
If unresolved, call the Immigration Contact Center
1345 (domestic) / +82-2-1345 (international) / +82-2-6908-1345~6 (alternative).
| Channel | Contact Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| K-ETA Center | 02-2666-0463 | Phone consultation not provided in principle; online inquiry preferred. |
| Immigration Contact Center | 1345 / +82-2-1345 | General immigration hotline. |
| Online inquiry form | k-eta.go.kr – Ask Us | Primary method for application-specific questions. |
If you encounter technical issues during the process, see our K-ETA application error troubleshooting guide for common fixes. Korea Immigration Service: +82-2-2110-3000. Address: Building #1, Government Complex-Gwacheon, 47, Gwanmun-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
K-ETA vs UK ETA – A Quick Comparison for British Travellers
K-ETA (10,000 KRW, checked at k-eta.go.kr) authorises entry to South Korea. UK ETA (£10, checked at gov.uk/check-eta) authorises entry to the United Kingdom. Both are electronic authorisations linked to the applicant’s passport.
| Attribute | K-ETA (South Korea) | UK ETA (United Kingdom) |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | 10,000 KRW (≈ USD 7-8) | £10 |
| Validity period | 2 years from approval | 2 years |
| Processing time | Generally within 72 hours | Within 3 working days |
| Status check portal | k-eta.go.kr – Application Results | gov.uk/check-eta |
| Airline verification | Digital via i-PreChecking | Digital |
| Printout required | No (recommended as backup) | No |
| Passport changes | K-ETA void – must reapply | Must apply for new ETA |
FAQ – Application & Status Tracking
Can I check my K-ETA status without an application reference number?
Yes. Non-members can check status on k-eta.go.kr using passport number and date of birth. The reference number is required when submitting support inquiries.
What should I do if I haven’t received the K-ETA result email?
Check your spam/junk folder. Some providers (Gmail, ) may delay delivery (notice: 13 March 2026).
Can I edit my K-ETA application after submitting it?
Core identity fields (passport number, name, nationality) cannot be changed – a new application is required. You can update accommodation travel information and email after approval via Application Results.
What happens at the airport with my K-ETA approval?
Airlines verify K-ETA digitally via i-PreChecking during check-in. No printout required but recommended as backup. You are exempt from submitting an arrival card upon entry.
FAQ – Validity, Renewals & Policy
My passport was renewed – is my K-ETA still valid?
No. K-ETA is linked to the specific passport used during application. If renewed, replaced, or damaged, your K-ETA is void and you must reapply with new passport details.
Can I get a refund if my K-ETA application is denied?
No. The 10,000 KRW fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome (approved, refused, or withdrawn).
Is there a way to fast-track or expedite my K-ETA application?
No. No paid priority or expedited processing exists. All applications are processed in order received. Apply at least 72 hours (ideally 7 days) before departure.
Are some nationalities temporarily exempt from K-ETA in 2026?
Yes. K-ETA is temporarily suspended for certain nationalities through 2026 (notice: 20 March 2026). UK citizens still require a valid K-ETA.
