South Korea Travel Requirements for Canadian Citizens

ETA Korea for Canadians

Planning a trip to South Korea from Canada? If so, it’s important to know the entry requirements and Korea visa conditions for Canadians to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

On this page, we provide you with all the essential information you need to know before embarking on a trip to South Korea as a Canadian citizen.

Korea Entry Requirements for Canadians

You need to meet the following requirements to enter South Korea as a Canadian:

  • Canadian passport
  • K-ETA OR arrival card
  • Customs declaration
  • Proof of return or onward travel

The K-ETA visa waiver is usually required to enter South Korea without a visa, however this has been temporarily waived for Canadians. The ETA is now an optional document, which replaces an arrival card.

Do Canadian Citizens Need a South Korea Visa?

Canadian nationals only have to get a valid visa to travel to South Korea if they plan to stay for more than 6 months at a time.

Canadians do not need a visa for stays under 6 months for tourism and business.

To enter South Korea without a visa, Canadians previously needed a K-ETA visa waiver. This policy is now optional for Canadian citizens, however those with an ETA benefit from not having to complete an arrival card.

Travel to South Korea from Canada

Direct flights are available from Toronto and Vancouver to Seoul Incheon International Airport.

There are also flights from Canadian airports including Montreal, Halifax, and Toronto to other airports in South Korea such as Busan and Jeju Island. These routes are not direct, having 1 or more stopovers.

Travel Advisory for Canadians Visiting South Korea

The Government of Canada advises Canadians to take normal security precautions when traveling to South Korea. Although South Korea is a safe and developed country, there are some risks that Canadians need to be aware of, such as:

  • North Korea tensions - South Korea shares a border with North Korea, which has been known to conduct missile tests and other provocative actions. Canadians should stay informed of the situation and avoid the border area.
  • Natural disasters - South Korea is prone to typhoons during the rainy season from June to August. If visiting during this time, you should be aware of the weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Crime - South Korea has a low crime rate, but there have been some reports of petty theft and scams targeting tourists. You should take precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and not accepting unsolicited help from strangers.

Republic of Korea Embassy in Canada

Canadian passport holders only have to apply for a South Korea visa at an embassy or consulate if they plan to stay for longer than 6 months.

The Republic of Korea’s main diplomatic representation in Canada is the South Korean Embassy in Ottawa. It can be found at this address:

150 Boteler Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5A6, Canada

There are also Korean consulates in the following cities:

  • Montreal
  • Toronto
  • Vancouver

South Korea FAQs for Canadian Passport Holders

Can Canadians visit South Korea? Toggle faqs

Yes, Canadians may travel to South Korea as long as they have the documents needed for entry, according to the country’s immigration policy.

Can Canadians get a visa on arrival in South Korea? Toggle faqs

South Korea does not have a visa on arrival service for Canadians. However, Canadians visiting South Korea for up to 6 months for tourism or business do not need a visa.

Can Canadian passport holders visit South Korea without a visa? Toggle faqs

Canadian tourists and business travelers can stay in South Korea without applying for a visa for 6 months.

Can I use the K-ETA to travel from Canada to Jeju Island? Toggle faqs

Yes, holders of an approved K-ETA from Canada can use the travel authorization to take a trip to Jeju Island and any other part of South Korea. Regular domestic flights to Jeju Island depart from Seoul.

How much does a South Korea visa cost from Canada? Toggle faqs

The cost of a South Korea visa from Canada depends on the type of visa or travel authorization the applicant requires.

How do you apply for a tourist visa for South Korea for Canadians? Toggle faqs

Canadians do not need a South Korea tourist visa if you have a Canadian passport and plan to stay for less than 6 months. To stay for longer, an embassy tourist visa is required.