No e-Arrival Card, No Entry? A Must-Read Guide to South Korea’s New Travel Rule!

Thinking of travelling to South Korea soon? Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling streets of Seoul or marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Jeju, there’s an important new requirement you need to know.

Starting in February, South Korea is rolling out a brand-new e-arrival Card system that will change the way travellers enter the country. This digital entry process is designed to make arrivals smoother and faster, replacing the traditional paper forms that have long been part of immigration procedures.

Seoul, South Korea | Aomam via Getty Images

With this transition, you can expect fewer delays and a more efficient screening process upon landing in South Korea. The e-arrival Card is set to become a mandatory part of travel requirements, making it crucial for Filipino travellers to understand how it works and complete it before their trip.

Also read: The Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide for Filipinos: Best Destinations by Season

What is the e-Arrival Card?

Arrival Card | Visit Seoul Official Website

The e-Arrival Card is a digital entry form that international travellers (including Filipinos) must complete before arrival in South Korea. It replaces the traditional paper arrival forms, making the process more seamless and hassle-free. With this new system, you can submit your details online before your trip, helping to speed up immigration and reduce delays at the airport. Think of it as your fast-track pass to exploring Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and beyond.

When does it start?

• February 24, 2025 – December 2025: Travellers can choose between the paper arrival card and the new e-Arrival Card.

• From January 2026: The e-Arrival Card will be the only accepted form for entry into South Korea.

Who needs to complete the e-Arrival Card?

Image credit: FoToArtist Ⓜ︎ via Canva Pro

Most international travellers, including Filipinos visiting South Korea for tourism, business, or study, must complete the e-Arrival Card within three days before arrival to avoid delays at immigration. This new digital system replaces the traditional paper arrival form, making entry smoother and more efficient.

Who is exempt?

Certain individuals are exempt, such as airline crew members, holders of a valid K-ETA, and registered residents of South Korea, including Permanent Resident and Overseas Korean Resident Card holders. Travellers should ensure they complete the e-Arrival Card in advance to enjoy a hassle-free arrival experience.

How to complete the e-Arrival Card

Filing the e-Arrival Card is easy. Just follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr) (currently under development).

2. Accept the Terms & Conditions: For minors under 14 years old, a parent or guardian must complete the form on their behalf.

3. Upload a Copy of Your Passport: The system will automatically extract your details using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology.

4. Enter Your Travel Details: This includes:

• Arrival date & flight number

• Departure details

• Purpose of stay (tourism, business, study, etc.)

• Accommodation address & contact details

6. Submit the Form: Once completed, you can download a PDF copy or take a screenshot as proof. You’ll also get a confirmation email for reference.

7. Need to make changes? No worries. You can edit your details online before you arrive in South Korea.

Why this is great news for Filipino Travellers

Philippine Passport | Aaftab Sheikh via Getty Images

If you’ve ever had to fumble around with arrival cards and pens after a long-haul flight, you know how tedious it can be. The e-arrival Card removes that stress—you can fill it out from the comfort of your home before you even board your flight.

This also aligns South Korea with other travel-friendly countries like Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand, which have already implemented similar digital entry systems.

Also read: Where to See Cherry Blossoms in South Korea: Top Destinations for Filipino Tourists

Final thoughts

South Korea’s e-Arrival Card is a game-changer for travellers who want a more convenient and seamless entry experience. Whether you’re planning to see cherry blossoms in Seoul, go café-hopping in Busan, or explore K-drama filming locations, make sure to complete the e-Arrival Card before you fly.

For the latest updates, keep an eye on the official e-Arrival Card website (once live) or check with South Korean immigration authorities.