South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Italy passport holders
Italian passport holders can visit South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa under the Korea-EU visa waiver agreement.
Great news! Italy passport holders can enter South Korea without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Verify the current K-ETA status for Italian passport holders before booking, as the requirement has been toggled on and off. Carry a valid Italian biometric passport. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested at immigration.
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
Current Travel Situation
Italy to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea and Italy have a bilateral visa waiver agreement. Italian nationals can enter South Korea for tourism, business or transit for up to 90 days without a visa. South Korea introduced the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) in 2021 but suspended the requirement for Italian nationals and most EU citizens from 2023 onwards. Check current requirements before travel as policy may change.
Practical Tips
Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island and the DMZ are popular with Italian visitors. South Korean pop culture (K-pop, K-drama) has increased Italian interest in the destination. The Korean won (KRW) is used. T-money transit cards are convenient for public transport. Travel insurance is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Italian citizens need a visa to visit South Korea?
No. South Korea and Italy have a bilateral visa waiver agreement. Italian nationals can visit South Korea for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Verify the current K-ETA status before travel, as the requirement for EU nationals has been toggled since its 2021 introduction.
What is the K-ETA and does it apply to Italian tourists?
The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) is South Korea's pre-travel registration system. South Korea suspended the K-ETA requirement for most EU nationals, including Italians, from 2023. Check the Korea Immigration Service website for the current policy before booking travel, as it may change.
What currency does South Korea use?
South Korea uses the South Korean won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, even at small convenience stores and markets. ATMs are available at airports, banks and convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven). T-money or Cashbee transit cards are useful for public transport.
What are the must-see destinations in South Korea for Italian travellers?
Seoul (palaces, street food, shopping), Busan (beaches, seafood, Gamcheon Culture Village), Gyeongju (ancient Silla kingdom capital), Jeju Island (volcanic landscapes, beaches) and the DMZ (demilitarised zone with North Korea) are the most popular destinations for international visitors.