No advance approval needed. Show up with a valid passport.

No advance approval needed. Show up with a valid passport. Permitted stay is 90 days.

United States passport holders can typically stay in South Korea for 90 days under the standard entry rules. Longer stays require a separate long-term visa.

From September 2021, travelers require the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). The validity period is 3 years from the date of approval. The government of the Republic of Korea announced that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2026, a K-ETA is not required for 27 countries citizens visiting Korea for 90 days or less for business or tourism.

For short business visits like meetings or conferences, United States citizens typically enter South Korea under the same rules as tourists. For paid work, long assignments, or activities beyond what a tourist visa allows, a dedicated business or work visa is required. Confirm specifics with the South Korea embassy or consulate.