South Korea Introduces e-Arrival Card For Travellers Starting 24 February: What Muslim Travellers Need to Know

If South Korea is on your travel bucket list, get ready for a smoother arrival experience! Starting 24 Feb 2025, international visitors will be required to complete the new e-Arrival Card before entering the country. This digital process is set to replace paper arrival forms entirely by Jan 2026, making immigration faster and more efficient. Whether you’re planning to explore Seoul's bustling markets, experience the tranquillity of Jeju Island, or discover the country’s growing halal-friendly scene, here’s everything you need to know about this new system.

Also read: 10 Iconic Japanese vs. Korean Foods Every Muslim Traveller Must Try

What is the e-Arrival card?

Image credit: korea travel | Reddit

Think of the e-Arrival Card as your digital ticket to a hassle-free entry into South Korea. It’s a mandatory online form that collects key travel information, including:

✅ Your arrival and departure dates

✅ Flight or ship details

✅ Purpose of visit

✅ Accommodation information

This new system will significantly reduce processing times at immigration checkpoints, helping you start your Korean adventure without unnecessary delays. Plus, it aligns with digital entry systems already in place in other ASEAN destinations like Malaysia, Cambodia, and soon Thailand.

Transition period & full implementation

To make the shift smoother, there will be a transition phase:

🔹 24 Feb 2025 – Dec 2025: Travellers can choose between the paper form or the e-Arrival Card.

🔹 Jan 2026 Onwards: Only the online e-Arrival Card will be accepted.

So if you're heading to South Korea soon, it’s best to start familiarising yourself with the new system now!

Who needs to fill out the e-Arrival card?

Almost all international visitors must complete the form within three days before arrival. However, certain travellers are exempt, including:

• Airline crew members

• Travellers with a valid K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

• Registered South Korean residents, including Permanent Resident Card and Overseas Korean Resident Card holders

If you’re unsure whether you need to complete it, check with the Korean Immigration Service before your trip.

How to complete the e-Arrival card?

Image credit: korea travel | Reddit

Filling out the e-Arrival Card is completely free and can be done online. Here’s how:

1️⃣ Visit the official website (e-arrivalcard.go.kr – launching soon).

2️⃣ Agree to the terms & conditions (Parents or guardians must submit forms for minors under 14).

3️⃣ Upload a copy of your passport (The system will extract details automatically using OCR technology).

4️⃣ Enter your travel details, including:

📅 Arrival & departure dates

🛫 Flight or ship information

🎯 Purpose of visit

🏨 Accommodation details & contact info

5️⃣ Submit & save your confirmation (You’ll receive an email and can download a PDF copy).

Need to make changes? No worries! You can edit your details on the website before passing through immigration.

Why does this matter for Muslim travellers?

For Muslim travellers, this digital transformation makes visiting halal-friendly South Korea even easier! The country has been making great strides in accommodating Muslim visitors, with more halal-certified restaurants, prayer rooms, and Muslim-friendly services available in major cities like Seoul and Busan. With a more efficient immigration process, you’ll have more time to enjoy everything South Korea has to offer, from exploring Itaewon’s halal eateries to visiting Jeju’s serene nature spots.

Additionally, since the e-Arrival Card must be completed before departure, it ensures you won’t have to fill out paperwork upon arrival – a bonus if you’re landing after a long-haul flight during Suhoor or Iftar hours!

Also read: Cherry Blossom Season in South Korea 2025: Top Places And Dates to Visit

Final thoughts

Image credit: SeanPavonePhoto | Canva Pro

With this new digital entry process, South Korea is stepping up its game in making travel easier and more efficient. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or a K-drama pilgrimage, be sure to complete the e-Arrival Card ahead of time to avoid delays.

For the latest updates, check with the official South Korean immigration website or your airline before travelling. South Korea is calling – get ready for a seamless and unforgettable journey!