Visa Requirements for Korean Travelers in 2025: A Global Overview

Planning an international trip in 2025?
Your passport may be powerful, but visa policies vary widely depending on the destination — and failing to meet entry rules can ruin your trip before it starts.
Here’s a practical guide to visa requirements for Korean passport holders traveling to major destinations this year.
We’ve included the most current information and direct links for easy application.

1. United States (USA)

- Visa Type: ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
- Duration: Up to 90 days
- Valid for: 2 years once approved
- Apply at: esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Cost: $21

2. Canada

- Visa Type: eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Duration: Up to 6 months per entry
- Valid for: 5 years
- Apply at: Canada.ca immigration section
- Cost: CAD $7

3. European Schengen Zone

- Visa: Visa-free for Korean citizens
- Stay: 90 days within any 180-day period
- Includes: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and 23 other countries

4. United Kingdom

- Visa: Not required for short visits
- Stay: Up to 6 months

5. Japan

- Visa: Waived (as of 2025)
- Stay: 90 days
- Note: Must have return ticket and hotel bookings for immigration

6. Australia

- Visa Type: eVisitor
- Stay: Up to 3 months per visit, valid for 1 year
- Application: Free online application via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

7. Vietnam

- Visa: 45-day visa exemption for Korean passport holders
- e-Visa available for extended stays

8. Thailand

- Visa: 30-day exemption for tourism
- Note: Limited to 2 land-border entries per calendar year

9. India

- Visa Type: e-Visa
- Stay: Up to 30 or 365 days depending on visa type
- Apply at: indianvisaonline.gov.in

10. China

- Visa: Required (unless using transit waiver)
- Application: Through local Visa Application Centers
- Transit: 144-hour visa-free transit in select cities (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.)

Tips for Smooth Entry

- Always check visa rules 2–3 weeks before travel — policies can change quickly.
- Have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date.
- Print hotel bookings and return flight confirmations for immigration.
- Use official government portals for e-Visas to avoid scams.

Conclusion

Understanding visa policies is just as important as booking flights.
With this updated 2025 guide, you can avoid surprises and ensure a stress-free journey.
Make sure to start your visa application early, especially for countries like India, Australia, or China.