Applying South Korea K-ETA for Malaysians: A Step by Step Guide

Planning a trip to South Korea from Malaysia? While Malaysian passport holders can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) before departure.

The process of applying for a K-ETA for Malaysians is simple, fully online, and once approved, your K-ETA is valid for multiple entries within three years. Read on for a clear, step-by-step guide to help you apply with ease!

Also read: 10 Things to Know Before Travelling to South Korea as a Malaysian [2025 Guide]

Applying K-ETA For Malaysians

1. Check Eligibility

Image credit: Cecelia Chang

Malaysian citizens aged 18 to 64 will need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) before visiting South Korea for purposes such as tourism, family visits, or short business trips.

However, if you’re under 18 or over 65, you do not need to apply for a K-ETA. A valid Malaysian passport is all that’s required to enter South Korea visa-free for stays of up to 90 days.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Before starting your K-ETA application, make sure you have the following documents and details ready:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from your date of entry into South Korea.

• Passport-Style Photo: A recent photo with your full face visible (from forehead to chin), plain background, and no heavy filters. Hijab or head coverings are allowed as long as the face is visible.

• Email Address: You’ll need this to receive confirmation and updates about your application.

• Trip Details: This includes your intended arrival date and accommodation address in Korea. An Airbnb address is acceptable. If you haven’t finalised your stay, you can enter a hotel address and update it later.

Having these details ready will make the application smoother and faster later on.

3. Visit the Official K-ETA Site or App

Image credit: K-ETA Official website

Go to the official K-ETA website: www.k-eta.go.kr

Or download the official K-ETA mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (search “K-ETA”).

TripZilla tip: Avoid third-party or unofficial sites. Some of them charge extra service fees and may not be secure. Always apply via the official platform to ensure safety and accuracy.

4. Complete the Application

You can choose to apply either as a Non-member (no registration needed) or sign up as a Member, which allows easier tracking of your application status in the future.

You will need to fill in:

• Personal information: Name, birthdate, nationality, etc.

• Passport details: Passport number, expiration date, issuing country.

• Travel information: Arrival date, flight details (if available), and your accommodation address.

TripZilla tip: If you're unsure of your final hotel or Airbnb, use a placeholder address — you can update this later through the K-ETA portal.

5. Pay the Application Fee

Once your application form is complete, you’ll be prompted to make the payment. The fee is ₩10,000 (approximately RM30–35). Payment can be made using a Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card, or even online methods like online banking or Touch' N Go eWallet.

Note that the fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Once paid, your application will be officially submitted for review.

6. Submit and Wait for Approval

Once you’ve completed the application and payment, your K-ETA will enter the processing stage. The system typically processes applications within 72 hours, but many travellers report receiving approval much faster, sometimes within just a few hours. I received my approved K-ETA in just an hour after submission.

You will be notified of your application result via the email address you provided. Alternatively, you can check your status anytime through the official K-ETA website or mobile app.

P.S. We recommend submitting your application 1 to 2 weeks in advance, especially during busy travel seasons or if there’s any chance your photo might not meet the requirements.

7. Receive and Keep Your K-ETA

Image credit: Cecelia Chang

Once approved, your K-ETA is digitally linked to your passport and valid for:

• 3 years from the date of approval

• Multiple entries into South Korea

• Stays of up to 90 days per visit

Although it’s stored electronically, it’s a good idea to save a digital copy of the confirmation (as a PDF or screenshot) and print a copy to keep with your travel documents. You might be asked to present it at check-in or upon arrival, especially if your name or passport details raise any flags in the system.

What If Your K-ETA Is Rejected?

If your application is rejected, don’t panic — you’re allowed to reapply up to three times within six months. However, make sure to fix any errors that may have caused the rejection. Common issues include:

• Poor-quality or incorrect passport-style photos

• Incomplete or inaccurate personal or travel information

If your application continues to be denied, or if your situation is more complex, you may need to apply for a traditional visa through the Embassy of South Korea in Malaysia.

Also read: A Malaysian Guide to Budget Travel in South Korea [2025 Edition]

Here's to wishing you a safe and wonderful journey in South Korea!