Citizenship: USA
- For U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call (914) 592-2760.
- Your U.S. passport must be signed, valid for 6+ months, and have 2–3 blank visa pages (not "Amendment" pages).
- The fee for reformatting uploaded documents is $35.00..
Entry Requirements
Important
These requirements are for U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please contact our office at (914) 592-2760.
- U.S. passport must be signed, valid for at least 6 months, and contain 2–3 blank visa pages (amendment pages are not valid).
- Passport and K-ETA required for tourism/business stays up to 90 days. Regular visa required for stays over 90 days.
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP): U.S. citizens may enter Korea for up to 90 days for tourism, business meetings, conferences, or family visits; no extensions permitted. From Sept 2021, eligible travelers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) prior to entry.
- JIDS fee: $189. K-ETA fee: $100. Email passport bio page, new photo, and the JIDS Request Form.
- Validity is generally multiple entry for two years (subject to change).
- K-ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee admission; final determination is by Korean Immigration at the port of entry.
- Eligibility: tourism or business meetings/conferences only. Any remunerated activity requires a visa (no K-ETA).
- You must carry printed K-ETA approval, proof of sufficient funds, onward/return flights, hotel confirmation, and a passport valid at least 6 months beyond your last day in Korea.
Photo Requirements
- Your head must face the camera directly with full face in view.
- Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.
- Taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background.
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head between 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, in color.
- No glasses.
- No hat or head covering (exceptions for documented religious or medical reasons).
- Full face visible; no shadows on face.
- No headphones or wireless hands-free devices.
If Traveling for Business
Required documents needed to be scanned to JIDS:
- Color copy of PASSPORT VITALS PDF FORMAT
- New Passport Photo –jpeg
Health Requirements
For complete health guidance, see the CDC: cdc.gov/travel.
Register Your Trip (STEP)
Give yourself peace of mind.
JIDS can enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for $25.00 via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Accompanying Minors
- Application signed by both parents/guardians.
- Notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardians.
- Original and copy of the minor's birth certificate.
Non-U.S. Citizens
- Provide a copy of your U.S. permanent resident card or valid long-term U.S. visa, plus a copy.
Additional Information
If Applying for a Regular Visa (Stay over 90 days)
- Valid U.S. signed passport with at least 6 months validity beyond last day of stay and 2–3 blank visa pages (no amendment pages).
- Actual passport and 1 color photocopy of the bio page.
- Visa Application Form (consulate form; contact JIDS if you need the current version).
Return Shipping & JIDS Fees
Return Shipping
- FedEx charge according to ZIP code.
- Saturday/8AM delivery available.
- Include a printed airbill to avoid extra charges. (No UPS accounts can be processed through us.)
Service Fees
- See JIDS pricing or call (914) 592-2760.
- If JIDS pays government fees on your behalf, a 5.9% processing fee applies.
