Australia entry requirements for travellers from South Korea
Do South Korean citizens need a visa for Australia?
Yes, in the form of an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601). Republic of Korea passport holders must hold one before boarding, and it cannot be arranged on arrival. Applications are made through the Australian ETA App and there is a service charge of AUD20.
South Korea is not eligible for the eVisitor, which covers European passports only, so the ETA is the route for tourism, visiting family and business trips.
How long can you stay in Australia?
The ETA allows up to three months on each entry, with unlimited entries during the twelve months it remains valid.
For one longer visit, apply instead for a Visitor visa (subclass 600), which can be granted for three, six or twelve months and costs from AUD250.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay. Australia has no six month validity rule, though airlines and transit countries may impose their own. The ETA is tied to your passport number, so apply again after renewing your passport.
Proof of funds
You must be able to support yourself for the visit and to pay for your departure. There is no published minimum, and Korean visitors are rarely asked, but the requirement applies to everyone.
Onward or return travel
A return ticket is not formally required. Carriers sometimes ask on one way bookings, and officers may ask about your plans on arrival if the stay looks open ended.
Applying for your ETA
Use the Australian ETA App. Scan your passport chip, take a photograph, answer the questions and pay the AUD20 service charge. Most applications are decided immediately.
If the app cannot read your passport, or you have a criminal conviction, or you have previously failed the health requirement, apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) through ImmiAccount instead.
Health requirements
No vaccinations are required for entry from South Korea. A yellow fever certificate is required only if you have been in a yellow fever risk country in the six days before arriving.
There is no reciprocal health care agreement between Australia and South Korea, so travel insurance covering medical care and repatriation is worth holding.
Other entry requirements
Complete the Incoming Passenger Card on the flight. Australian biosecurity is strict, and travellers from South Korea are most often stopped over dried seafood, kimchi and other fermented foods, ginseng products, seeds and meat items. Declare them rather than risk a fine.
Cash of AUD10,000 or more, or the won equivalent, must be declared.
Many travellers with an ePassport can use SmartGate at the major airports.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the ETA on arrival?
No. It must be granted before you fly and airlines check at check in.
Do I have to use the app?
Yes, for an ETA. The Australian ETA App is the only channel. The alternative is the Visitor visa (subclass 600) applied for through ImmiAccount.
How many times can I enter Australia on one ETA?
As many as you like within the twelve months of validity, with each stay limited to three months.
Can I work on an ETA?
No. Business visitor activities such as meetings and conferences are allowed, but paid work is not. Working holiday arrangements are a separate visa category with their own application.
Do children need their own ETA?
Yes, including infants. Each traveller needs one linked to their own passport.
What if I change my passport after the ETA is granted?
Apply for a new ETA with the new passport before you travel, since the authority is linked to the passport number.