Canada Visa RequirementsFor South Korea passport holders
South Korean passport holders require a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7 (approximately USD 5) and allows stays of up to 180 days.
South Korea passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply online at the Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eta). Required: valid South Korean passport, email address, and credit card. Cost is CAD 7. Processing is usually within minutes but can take several days; apply at least 72 hours before departure. The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires and covers multiple entries.
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
South Korea to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada requires an eTA for visa-exempt foreign nationals arriving by air, including South Koreans. This is not a full visa but an electronic authorization linked to your passport. South Korea and Canada have strong bilateral ties, including through the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA), and a significant Korean diaspora in Vancouver and Toronto.
Practical Tips
Apply before booking to confirm approval. Canada's two main Korean communities are in the Greater Toronto Area and Metro Vancouver (particularly Richmond and Burnaby). Banff and Jasper national parks are spectacular but require advance accommodation booking during summer. Driving in Canada requires an International Driving Permit alongside your Korean license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Koreans need a visa to visit Canada?
South Koreans do not need a traditional visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7 and is applied for online at canada.ca/eta.
How long can South Koreans stay in Canada on an eTA?
Up to 180 days (6 months) per visit. The border officer sets the exact duration at the port of entry and may grant less than 180 days depending on circumstances.
How do South Koreans apply for the Canadian eTA?
Apply online at the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eta) with your South Korean e-passport, email address, and credit card. The cost is CAD 7 and approval is usually within minutes, but allow up to 72 hours.
Can South Koreans use their Korean driving license to drive in Canada?
South Korean licenses are generally accepted for short visits in most Canadian provinces, but obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) from Korea before departure is strongly recommended. Rules vary by province.