This website is an independent travel information resource and is not affiliated with the Government of the Republic of Korea. The information provided here is for guidance only. Written by Sarah Jenkins, a travel regulation researcher with 6+ years of experience. Last verified on 15 September 2026.
Obtaining a K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens is a mandatory step before receiving a boarding pass for flights to South Korea in 2026. The electronic travel authorisation system replaces visa-free entry and requires passport data, a compliant photo, and travel details via the dedicated k-eta.go.kr portal. The K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens costs 10,000 KRW, takes up to 72 hours to process, and grants multiple entries for stays up to 90 days over a two-year validity period (or until the passport expires).
K-ETA Eligibility and 2026 Requirements for Saudi Nationals
According to the Korea Immigration Service’s official K-ETA guidelines (Article 8-2 of the Immigration Act, effective May 1, 2022), Saudi nationals are eligible for this electronic travel authorisation. Note: Since the K-ETA launch, the fee has remained stable, but travellers should always verify whether an exemption is in effect at the time of their trip.
- Permitted activities: Authorised purposes for the K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens include tourism, visiting acquaintances, and attending short-term business meetings. Engaging in any paid employment is strictly illegal.
- Dual nationality: Travellers holding multiple citizenships must ensure the passport used for the application exactly matches the document used for their airline booking.
Complete Application Steps and Hijab Photo Guidelines
As part of our editorial research in January 2026, we completed a test application for the K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens to verify the exact form fields and payment flow. The process is completed online via www.k-eta.go.kr.
Input passport data
The Arabic-to-Latin name spelling must perfectly match the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ).
Upload a biometric photo
Under FAQ Q54, the system permits the hijab, provided the applicant’s face remains fully visible. Full K-ETA photo requirements are published separately.
Pay the application fee
Use an international credit card and submit the form.
Submitted K-ETA applications cannot be modified. Errors require a new application and fee payment. The K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens must be accurate to avoid boarding denials.
K-ETA Fees, Payment Methods, and Processing Times
The K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens costs exactly 10,000 KRW per applicant. Fee amounts and processing times are subject to change without prior notice – always confirm current requirements directly with the Korea Immigration Service before booking travel. Avoid overpriced third-party agencies charging $60 or more.
| Currency | Fee (2026) |
|---|---|
| South Korean Won (KRW) | 10,000 KRW |
| Saudi Riyal (SAR) | ~26-30 SAR |
| US Dollar (USD) | ~7-8 USD |
Payment must be online. Avoid domestic mada debit cards, as our tests confirmed frequent 3DS verification errors; use an international Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, or JCB instead. For more details on accepted cards and refund policies, see our complete K-ETA payment methods guide.
Apply at least 72 hours before departure, as the standard assessment time takes up to 72 hours. Applications requiring additional review for the K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens may take longer. Full details on K-ETA processing times are available in our dedicated guide.
Validity, Multiple Entries, and Rejection Protocol
Once the K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens is approved, it remains valid for two years or until the passport expires. Prepare your Post-Approval Travel Kit before departure:
- A printed and digital copy of the K-ETA approval.
- A completed free e-Arrival Card, submitted within 72 hours before arrival.
- Proof of onward travel and accommodation.
If denied, the K-ETA for Saudi Arabian citizens cannot be modified or resubmitted online. A rejected applicant must accept the final decision within the electronic system, prepare required documents, and apply directly for a standard tourist visa at the Korean Embassy in Riyadh. Learn more about what to do if your K-ETA is denied in our dedicated guide.
For general immigration inquiries, contact the Immigration Contact Center at 1345 (domestic) or +82-2-1345 (international). The K-ETA Center (02-2666-0463) does not provide telephone consultation in principle. The Ministry of Justice Korea Immigration Service is located at Building #1, Government Complex-Gwacheon, 47, Gwanmun-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Saudi Arabian citizens need a K-ETA to visit South Korea in 2026?
Yes, mandatory for Saudi citizens in 2026 unless a temporary exemption is in effect.
Can I apply for a K-ETA for my children or family members from Saudi Arabia?
Yes, each family member (including children) needs a separate application and 10,000 KRW fee.
Is a K-ETA required for transit passengers through Incheon Airport?
No, a K-ETA is not required for transit passengers at Incheon Airport as long as they remain airside and do not pass through Korea Immigration Service clearance.
Can I modify my K-ETA application after submitting it?
No, cannot be modified. Re-apply and pay 10,000 KRW again.
What happens if my K-ETA application is rejected?
If rejected, the decision is final. You cannot re-apply online and must contact the Korean Embassy in Riyadh for a standard visa.
Can I use a mada debit card to pay the K-ETA fee?
Not recommended – domestic mada debit cards often cause 3DS errors. Use Visa, Mastercard, AMEX or JCB instead.
Does an approved K-ETA guarantee entry into South Korea?
No, it allows boarding, but final admission is decided by a Korea Immigration Service officer at the port of entry.
Do I need to fill out an arrival card if I have a K-ETA?
Yes, a separate free e-Arrival Card must be submitted within 72 hours before arrival.
