Last updated: 15 September 2026. This article is reviewed quarterly. Changes in official requirements may occur – always verify with the K-ETA portal. Written by Thomas Müller, a former visa officer at the Embassy of Switzerland and travel consultant specializing in Northeast Asian immigration procedures since 2019. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or official advice. Travelers must confirm their eligibility with the official K-ETA website or the nearest Republic of Korea embassy before departure.
Swiss passport holders are currently exempt from K-ETA requirements for South Korea through 31 December 2026. If travelling after this date, you must apply online prior to departure. The maximum visa-free stay is 90 days, requiring a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry.
Do Swiss and EFTA Citizens Need a K-ETA in 2026?
Swiss citizens and Liechtenstein nationals are temporarily exempt from obtaining a K-ETA until 31 December 2026. According to the Republic of Korea Ministry of Justice announcement (No. 2025-12, 15 March 2025), the temporary waiver applies until 31 December 2026, stemming from the extended Visit Korea campaign.
Current rules allow Swiss passport holders visa-free entry to South Korea for up to 90 days.
| Country | Visa-Waiver | Max Stay | 2026 K-ETA Exempt? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switzerland | Yes | 90 days | Yes (until 31 December 2026) |
| Liechtenstein | Yes | 90 days | Yes (until 31 December 2026) |
| Norway | Yes | 90 days | Confirm with Embassy of Norway in Seoul |
| Iceland | Yes | 90 days | Confirm with Embassy of Iceland in Seoul |
| Monaco | Yes | 30 days | Confirm with Embassy |
| San Marino | Yes | 30 days | Confirm with Embassy |
| Andorra | Yes | 30 days | Confirm with Embassy |
Travellers from Norway, Iceland, Monaco, San Marino, and Andorra must verify their K-ETA status individually with the Korean Embassy.
K-ETA Requirements: Documents, Fee and Validity
After their exemption expires (31 December 2026), Swiss citizens must obtain a K-ETA. Cost: 10,000 KRW (≈USD 7-8, excl. VAT). Validity: 2 years or until passport expiry – whichever comes first. Passport: biometric, min. 6 months from entry.
Swiss citizens must prepare:
- Valid Swiss biometric passport (minimum 6 months validity from entry).
- Passport-style digital photograph (colour, 35×45 mm, white background, taken within 3 months, neutral expression, no spectacles).
- Valid email address.
- Credit or debit card for the non-refundable 10,000 KRW fee.
Swiss citizens use the K-ETA for multiple entries, staying up to 90 days per visit. Applicants under 18 or over 64 may be exempt.
How to Apply for K-ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
Obtaining a K-ETA for Swiss citizens involves a 7-step online process via the official portal. Apply at least 72 hours before departure. Recommended: 1-2 weeks ahead to avoid delays.
Visit the K-ETA website or use the iOS app
Access the official portal or download the iOS application.
Choose the Member or Non-member route
Create an account (Member) or verify via email (Non-member).
Agree to Terms and Conditions
Review and accept the terms of service.
Enter passport information
Input your details exactly as printed in your passport.
Upload passport scan and photograph
Attach a compliant passport scan and a 35×45 mm photo with white background.
Review all details carefully
Double-check every field before submitting your application.
Pay 10,000 KRW and submit
Complete the non-refundable payment to finalise your application.
Common Application Pitfalls and Entry Conditions
Ensure exact name and photo match to avoid K-ETA rejection. Having submitted my own K-ETA application for a business trip in 2025, I found that uploading a photo with a slight shadow led to a rejection – ensure the background is perfectly white.
- Name mismatch: Swiss citizens must enter their full name exactly as on the passport, including middle names.
- Photo non-compliance: Upload a colour 35×45 mm photo, white background, no spectacles.
- Passport renewal: K-ETA is linked to the passport number. A new passport invalidates it.
- Entry conditions: Valid for multiple entries, up to 90 days per visit.
- e-Arrival Card: K-ETA holders are automatically exempt from the e-Arrival Card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do children need a separate K-ETA?
Yes, every traveller needs a K-ETA. However, applicants under 18 or over 64 may be exempt. Verify current age-based exemptions before applying.
Is the K-ETA fee refundable if I cancel my trip?
No, the 10,000 KRW fee is strictly non-refundable, regardless of travel changes or application rejection.
Can I use K-ETA to work or study in South Korea?
No. K-ETA covers tourism and business meetings only. Work or study requires a traditional visa.
What happens if my passport expires after K-ETA approval?
Your K-ETA becomes invalid immediately. You must apply for a new authorisation using your newly issued biometric passport.
Can I hold dual Swiss-South Korean citizenship and use K-ETA?
No. Dual citizens must enter using their South Korean passport. K-ETA is exclusively for foreign visitors.
Does a valid K-ETA exempt me from the e-Arrival Card?
Yes, K-ETA holders are exempt. Non-holders must submit the free e-Arrival Card online within 72 hours before arrival.
Where can I get help with my K-ETA application?
Use the K-ETA Center web form. For consular inquiries, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bern.
What are the emergency contact numbers for Swiss citizens in South Korea?
Dial 119 for medical/fire, 112 for police. Swiss citizens can contact the Embassy of Switzerland in Seoul at 77 Songwol-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03165, Republic of Korea (+82 2 739 9511).
