South Korea Visa rules just got easier for Australian and New Zealand families, with the Korean Government confirming the extension of a visa-free waiver until 31 December 2026.
For families juggling passports, bookings, school holidays and travel logistics, that’s one less form, one less fee, and one less thing to remember before take-off.
What this South Korea Visa update means
Normally, travellers from visa-exempt countries must apply online for a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) before arrival. While the system was designed to streamline border entry, it added an extra step many travellers would rather skip.
Under the extended waiver, Australians and New Zealanders can continue entering South Korea without a K-ETA, making spontaneous trips, stopovers, and family holidays far more appealing.
Can you still apply for a K-ETA?
Yes. Applying for a K-ETA remains optional.
Some travellers still choose to apply because it comes with a small convenience bonus: K-ETA holders are exempt from completing an arrival card on entry. However, the standard application fee applies, and there’s no requirement to apply if you don’t want to.
In short:
- No K-ETA visa application needed to enter South Korea
- It’s optional if you prefer the arrival-card exemption
Important change coming in 2026: digital arrival cards
While the K-ETA remains waived, Korea is moving toward a fully digital entry process.
From 1 January 2026, travellers entering South Korea without a K-ETA will need to complete a digital e-Arrival Card online within three days of arrival. Paper arrival cards will be phased out entirely by the end of 2025.
The goal? Faster airport processing and fewer queues. This is good news when travelling with kids after a long-haul flight!
Who is covered by the K-ETA waiver?
Australians and New Zealanders remain fully covered under the extension. Korea currently allows visa-free, K-ETA-exempt travel for citizens of 67 countries, including many from Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania.
If an eligible traveller tries to apply unnecessarily, the system politely notifies them with a pop-up message confirming they don’t need it.
Why Korea is making travel easier
This move to streamline South Korea’s Visa process is part of Korea’s broader tourism strategy, with an ambitious target of 30 million international visitors by 2030. Authorities are focusing on:
- Promoting K-culture beyond Seoul
- Making travel smoother for families and repeat visitors
- Expanding tourism into regional destinations
A new tourist pass combining transport and attractions is also planned from 2026, which could be a big win for family travellers exploring beyond the capital.
Final word for families
This South Korea visa update is a genuine win for Australian and New Zealand families. Less red tape means easier planning, smoother airport arrivals, and fewer admin headaches – especially when travelling with children.
As always, entry requirements can change, so travellers should double-check official government advice before departure. But for now, Korea has rolled out the welcome mat and left the paperwork behind.
Let me know what you think!