South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Costa Rica passport holders
Costa Ricans must obtain a visa or electronic authorization before visiting South Korea. The K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online application costing approximately USD 10-50, or a traditional tourist visa can be applied for at a Korean embassy.
Costa Rica passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Check the Korean Ministry of Justice website (k-eta.go.kr) to see if Costa Ricans currently qualify for K-ETA (this eligibility changes periodically). If eligible, apply online for approximately USD 10. If not, apply for a tourist visa (C-3) at the Korean Embassy. Traditional visa applications require passport, photos, bank statements, and flight bookings.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
K-ETA or Visa Application
Online K-ETA application at k-eta.go.kr (if eligible) or tourist visa (C-3) application form.
Passport-Sized Photo
Recent digital or physical photo.
Flight Bookings
Return or onward flight reservation.
Visa or K-ETA Fee
Payment of applicable fee (K-ETA approx. USD 10; tourist visa approx. USD 50).
Bank Statements Recommended
Financial evidence for the stay.
Required at Entry
Approved K-ETA Email or Passport with Visa
Confirmation of K-ETA approval or passport with Korean visa stamp.
Current Travel Situation
Costa Rica to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea requires visas for Costa Rican citizens. The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) was introduced as an easier online alternative to the traditional visa. Verify current K-ETA availability for Costa Rican passport holders at the K-ETA website before applying.
How to Get There
Japan is accessible by ferry from Busan to Fukuoka (3 hours by jetfoil). Costa Ricans are visa-free to Japan. Taiwan is accessible by air from Seoul. China is also close by air.
Money & Banking
Costa Rica uses the Colon (CRC). South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). ATMs are available; Korean convenience store ATMs (7-Eleven, CU) accept international cards. Credit cards widely accepted. T-money card for Seoul metro is convenient.
Practical Tips
South Korea's "Korean Wave" (Hallyu) has made it a cultural powerhouse globally. Seoul is a dynamic city combining ancient palaces (Gyeongbokgung) with ultra-modern districts (Gangnam, Hongdae). Korean BBQ and street food from Myeongdong are world-famous. The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) offers a sobering peek at North Korea. Jeju Island is a popular natural getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costa Ricans need a visa to visit South Korea?
Yes. Costa Rican passport holders require either the K-ETA (online authorization) or a traditional tourist visa. Check the K-ETA portal for current Costa Rica eligibility.
What is the K-ETA?
The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is an online pre-travel authorization for eligible nationalities. It is simpler and cheaper than a traditional visa. Apply at k-eta.go.kr.
What are the top attractions in South Korea?
Seoul's royal palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung), the DMZ tour, Jeju Island, Busan's Haeundae Beach and Gamcheon Culture Village, and the traditional village of Jeonju.
What is the Korean Wave (Hallyu)?
The Korean Wave refers to the global spread of Korean pop culture including K-pop music (BTS, Blackpink), K-dramas, Korean cinema (Parasite), and Korean beauty (K-beauty). South Korea has become a cultural pilgrimage for fans worldwide.
What currency does South Korea use?
South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). ATMs at Korean convenience stores accept international cards. Credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul.
Can I visit North Korea from South Korea?
No. The border between South and North Korea is completely closed. The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) can be visited on organized tours from Seoul, offering views into North Korea, but crossing is not possible.
What is the best time to visit South Korea?
Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October-November) for colorful foliage are the most popular seasons. Summers are hot and humid; winters are cold but offer ski resorts.