The real numbers from the official system, and how to avoid overpriced agents
Quick answer
Through the official system the K-ETA fee is roughly USD 7–8 (about KRW 10,000 plus a payment charge). Most decisions arrive within a few hours and should not exceed 72 hours. Once approved it allows multiple entries for up to three years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
The fee is charged once per application and is not refunded if the result is a refusal, so filing accurately the first time is a direct saving.
Agent sites often charge USD 30–70 or more, marketed as priority service. There is no official fast track; every application enters the same queue.
Validity runs up to three years from approval but is tied to the passport used. Renew or replace the passport and you must file a new K-ETA, even if the old approval has time left.
Length of stay is set by the visa-waiver entitlement of your nationality, not by K-ETA itself. Check the allowed period listed for your country in the official eligibility table before planning a long stay.
For frequent travellers — for example patients returning for follow-ups — a three-year approval makes the per-trip cost negligible and removes the risk of filing late for a sudden trip.
Yes, provided the card is enabled for international online payments.
Yes, because the approval is tied to the previous passport number.
No. Three years is the authorization's life; each stay is limited by your nationality's visa-waiver period.
Check the status with your application number on the official site and contact the service centre if your departure is close.
A much higher price is an agent's service charge, not a government fee, and it does not speed up approval.
3 points • reviewed 2026-09-15
Reviewed and last updated: 2026-09-15
2 sources • every claim is traceable
https://www.mfds.go.kr/eng/index.do
https://www.mohw.go.kr/eng/
Last updated: 2026-09-15 · This content is for information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before making treatment decisions.
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