The South Korean Government has announced that the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be an optional travel document starting April 1st, 2023, until December 31st, 2025. This means that travelers are not required to obtain an ETA to enter South Korea during this period.
However VisaCentral recommends that travelers still obtain an ETA before traveling to South Korea. While the ETA may be optional, it can still streamline the entry process and prevent potential delays or issues at the border.
Tourist Travel Requirements for an Korea - South Visa for Irish Citizens
Please Read
Please note that travellers with a valid K-ETA do not need to submit an Arrival Card before arriving in South Korea.
Eligibility and Documentation
The Government of South Korea utilises an electronic travel authorization (ETA) issuance system. The ETA is an electronic authorization issued by the government granting entry into South Korea. It is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport.
To be eligible the traveller must:
Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
Hold proof of sufficient funds
Hold proof of onward/return flights
Hold proof of hotel reservation
Hold all documents required for the next destination
To complete the order form the traveller must provide:
A photograph
A copy of the passport information page
Apply now and complete our order form providing basic travel and personal details. We'll take care of the rest keeping you apprised of your order's progress over email.
Important Information
South Korea Executive Service
The Embassy of South Korea requires that all individuals applying for a visa in Dublin appear in person in order to submit and collect their their visa application.
VisaCentral is able to offer applicants a comprehensive South Korea Executive Service offering in all steps of the process including:
A dedicated Executive Service agent who will assist you during the visa application process
Provision of application forms, requirements and instructions on how to obtain your necessary visa
Assistance in completing the visa form in order to avoid unnecessary delays to the submission of the application
Quality checking of your application and supporting materials to ensure it is complete, and minimising the risk of refusal at the Consulate
Upon placing your order, a VisaCentral visa specialist will contact you directly to talk through the process in more detail.
Please note that the consular fees must be paid by the applicant at the Embassy when submitting the application.
Business Travel Requirements for an Korea - South Visa for Irish Citizens
ETA Eligibility
Travelers attending unpaid business meetings or business conferences may apply for a Business ETA. Please return to our homepage and select "Business Electronic" from our list of travel purposes.
Travelers engaged in profit-making activities must apply for a traditional business visa. Please follow the instructions on this page to obtain your business visa
Document Requirements
Upon placing your order VisaCentral will send you details for the following document requirements:
Passport
Digital Photograph(s)
Visa Application Form
Proof of Residency
Letter of Introduction
Proof of Financial Means
Proof of Travel Arrangements
Korea - South Visa FAQ
When is the best time to apply for my Korea - South visa?
The best time to apply for your Korea - South visa is 1-2 months before your travel date. However, if you are running short on time, we may be able to process your visa on a faster service at the Embassy’s discretion.
Do I have to send you my passport to get a Korea - South visa? Is it safe to send a passport?
Yes. You will need to send your actual passport, not a copy of it. The Korea - South visa is stamped on your passport and will become one of your passport pages. Visa request cannot be processed without your original passport. Because of the importance of your passport, we strongly suggest that you send your application by a secure method, such as a guaranteed postal service or courier.
