Gyeongju Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport regardless of age. If traveling with one parent or without parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) including contact information, though this is rarely requested. Children under 17 are exempt from fingerprinting at immigration. Minors require their own K-ETA if from countries requiring it. For unaccompanied minors, check airline policies and notify immigration in advance. Keep copies of birth certificates accessible. If child has different surname from accompanying adult, bring documentation proving relationship.

Pets must have an ISO-compatible microchip and valid rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before entry but within validity period). Health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure required. Advance notification to Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (QIA) required at least 5 days before arrival. Dogs and cats from rabies-free countries may have reduced quarantine. Pets from high-risk countries may face quarantine up to 10-20 days at owner's expense. Some breeds may be restricted. Contact QIA at +82-54-912-0467 or visit www.qia.go.kr for specific requirements. Service animals have different procedures.

Tourist visas cannot be extended beyond initial permitted period except in emergencies. For stays longer than 90 days, apply for appropriate long-term visa (work, study, etc.) before arriving. Students must obtain D-2 (college) or D-4 (language study) visa from Korean embassy before arrival. Working holiday visas available for citizens of countries with bilateral agreements (typically 18-30 years old). All long-term visa holders must register at local immigration office within 90 days of arrival and obtain Alien Registration Card (ARC). Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and entry bans.

Short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) generally permitted on tourist visa or visa-free entry. Cannot engage in paid work or employment. For longer business stays or activities, B-1 or B-2 business visa required. Bring invitation letter from Korean company, business registration documents, and proof of business purpose. Some nationalities can apply for multiple-entry business visas. Working in Korea requires appropriate work visa (E-series) sponsored by Korean employer - cannot change from tourist to work status inside Korea.

Medical tourists can enter on regular tourist visa for treatment. Some hospitals provide invitation letters for visa applications. Medical visa (C-3-M) available for longer treatments, requires hospital confirmation. Bring medical records, doctor referrals, and hospital appointment confirmations. Many hospitals in larger cities have international patient departments. Travel insurance should cover pre-existing conditions if seeking treatment. Plan recovery time before return travel. Gyeongju has medical facilities but major procedures typically done in Seoul or Busan.

Transit passengers staying airside don't need visa. For leaving airport during layover, check if your nationality requires K-ETA or visa. Transit tourists program allows visa-free stay up to 30 days for certain nationalities when arriving and departing through specific airports. Free transit city tour programs available at Incheon Airport for layovers over 4-5 hours. If transiting to third country, ensure you have valid visa for destination if required. Keep boarding passes for all flights.

Previous overstays, deportations, or immigration violations may result in entry bans (typically 1-10 years depending on severity). Declare any previous issues honestly on K-ETA or visa application. False information can result in permanent ban. If you have previous ban, check if it has expired before applying. Criminal records from other countries may affect entry - serious crimes can result in denied entry. Contact Korean embassy before booking travel if you have concerns about admissibility.