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Visas

Visa Waiver Program

As of September 8, 2010, a fee of $14 will be charged to submit an ESTA application. Click here for more information about the fee.

VWP travelers should be aware that unauthorized third-parties have established websites, which charge visitors an additional or higher fee to provide information about ESTA and to submit ESTA applications on behalf of the VWP traveler. These businesses and websites are not endorsed by, associated with, nor affiliated in any way with DHS or the United States Government. Use of a private service to apply for travel authorization via ESTA will not expedite the granting of an approval.

Travelers must visit the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov to apply.

On November 17th 2008, the Republic of Korea became a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).  If you possess a valid U.S. visa, you may continue to travel without using the VWP.  However, if you would like to travel under the VWP, you must fulfill the following conditions:

  • Your travel must be for business, tourism or transit only. 
  • You must possess a valid e-Passport. 
  • You must have a ticket for return or onward travel on a participating carrier. 
  • You must depart the U.S. within 90 days after entry.  
  • You must receive an approval from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to traveling. 

Travelers must visit the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete an online application before they are given permission to use the VWP.  The ESTA application will ask for the same biographical and eligibility information currently required on the paper I-94W form.  ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel; however, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recommends that applications be submitted no less than 72 hours prior to departure. 

Note: If you are denied an ESTA application, please schedule an appointment online at www.us-visaservices.com, or by calling 003-08-131-420 (within Korea) or 866-222-1107 (within the U.S.) to apply for a visa at the U.S. Embassy Seoul.