South Korea Travel and Entry Restrictions 2022: COVID-19 Update
- DATE
- 2022-04-01
The South Korea entry restrictions determine who can enter the country and under what conditions.
Normally, foreigners must meet the South Korea visa requirements for their nationality and obtain the relevant permit before traveling.
Additionally, several South Korea COVID restrictions are now in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
As a result, the Republic of Korea has temporarily revised its visa policy to suspended visa exemptions for some countries.
Continue reading to learn about current South Korean travel restrictions and travel bans in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can I Travel to South Korea Visa-Free During Coronavirus?
South Korea has approved 96 countries to enter the country visa-free during coronavirus.
Under normal circumstances, passport holders from over 100 countries can stay in South Korea without a visa for between 30 and 180 days, depending on their nationality.
Once the coronavirus suspension ends, all visa-exempt travelers will need to apply for the K-ETA for South Korea.
Citizens of 96 approved countries can apply.
Temporary Health Measures for South Korea
Anyone wishing to travel to the East Asian nation during the current restrictions needs to be aware of the health entry requirements for South Korea now in place.
These temporary measures are designed to protect residents and visitors in South Korea.
Unless exempt, travelers are subject to the following entry rules:
- PCR test: Travelers aged 6 and older must present a medical certificate showing a negative PCR COVID-19 test result taken within 2 days of departure. The tests accepted are LAMP, NAAT, NEAR, PCR, SDA, or TMA.
- Health Declaration Form: This contact form must be completed and presented on arrival
- Self-quarantine safety protection mobile app: All passengers traveling to South Korea must install this on their mobile device.
Health requirements are subject to change at short notice. Travelers should ensure they have all the latest information before arranging a trip to South Korea.
Do I Need a Coronavirus Vaccine to Travel to South Korea?
At the moment, a coronavirus vaccine is not required to travel to South Korea. However, vaccinated passengers are able to travel to South Korea with fewer restrictions.
Travelers should stay updated with the latest developments and ensure they have all the vaccinations needed to travel to South Korea before departure.
Is It Mandatory to Quarantine on Arrival in South Korea?
From April 1, 2022, vaccinated travelers who register with the Q-code system are eligible for quarantine exemption.
Most other passengers are subject to quarantine for 7 days on arrival. Visitors must take a PCR test on day 7.
Passengers who are required to quarantine must install the “self-quarantine safety protection mobile app” on their device before departure or upon arrival.
Vaccinated Travel Lane With Singapore
Passengers arriving from Singapore under the Vaccinated Travel Lane must present:
- a COVID-19 vaccination certificate complete with a QR code
- a confirmation of their arrival COVID-19 test
- a printed copy of medical insurance with coverage of USD 25,100 for COVID-19 related medical expenses.
Can I Transit through South Korea During COVID-19?
South Korea entry restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic also inlcude some limitations for transit passengers.
Travelers are currently only allowed to transit through South Korea for a maximum of 24 hours. They must have a confirmed connecting ticket.
Nationals of Egypt, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen are not allowed to transit.
All Passengers in transit must complete a health questionnaire on arrival.
Internal and Movement Restrictions within South Korea
Intercity transportation in South Korea is fully operational in most areas. Use of a facemask is mandatory, and eating and drinking are not permitted.
- Domestic flights: most routes have resumed with full capacity
- Trains: operational with some changes to timetables. Hygiene measures in place at stations and onboard
- Buses: inter-regional bus journeys are now permitted
- Local transport: taxis, metro, tram, and bus operational
Travelers should check the restrictions in place in the specific area of South Korea that they plan to visit. Visitors cannot board a domestic flight until completing the 7-day quarantine.
Korean Flights Affected by Coronavirus
Some airlines have canceled flights to and from South Korea, largely due to a decline in demand.
International and national routes are affected, although South Korea remains well-served by some services. Passengers with plane tickets in the coming days should check with the airline to ensure that the flight is to go ahead as scheduled.
Is It Safe to Travel to South Korea during COVID-19?
Some passengers are questioning whether it is safe to go to South Korea now. Most lockdown measures in South Korea have been lifted.
Most stores, educational facilities, stores, and other businesses are now open and operating as normal. Provided travelers take the necessary precautions and maintain a social distance, such facilities can be used safely.
There are some regional differences in the safety measures being implemented. Travelers should check the specific rules and regulations for their destination.
Health advice for travelers in South Korea
Foreigners currently in South Korea are asked to follow health advice that is being issued internationally.
- Do not travel if experiencing any symptoms
- Regularly wash hands with soap and water and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
- Cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing
- Stay at least 6 feet away from other people
- Wear a mask when taking public transportation
Foreigners in South Korea who show any COVID-19 can call 1339 for 24-hour advice.
As always, foreigners should consult the latest health information for South Korea well ahead of departure.
- Embassy of the Republic of Korea
to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea - Address : Fourth Floor, Pacific MMI Building, Section 21, Allotments 2 & 3, Champion Parade, P.O. Box 381, Port Moresby
- Tel : (+675) 321-5822~5
After Working Emergency Line : (+675) 7394-6778
Fax : (+675) 321-5828
Hours of Operation : Monday~Friday 08:00∼12:00, 13:30∼16:00
