Do You Need a Medical Visa for Treatment in Korea?

(K-ETA Explained – 2026 Complete Guide)

If You Are Planning Medical Treatment in Korea, Start Here

If you are considering surgery, cancer treatment, dental procedures, cosmetic treatment, or a full medical check-up in South Korea, there is one important question to answer before booking your flight:

Do you need a medical visa, or is K-ETA enough?

Many international patients feel uncertain about visa requirements.
It can seem complicated at first — but it doesn’t have to be.

This guide explains everything clearly, step by step, so you can prepare with confidence.

1. In Many Cases, K-ETA Is Enough for Short-Term Treatment

If you are from a visa-waiver country and plan to stay under 90 days, you can often enter Korea using K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization).

You may enter with K-ETA if:

• Your stay is under 90 days

• Your treatment is short-term (surgery, cosmetic procedures, dental care, health screening)

• Your return date is clearly planned

K-ETA is applied online and is typically processed within 72 hours.

However, even with approval, final entry is determined by immigration officers upon arrival.

2. When You Should Consider a Medical Visa

If your treatment requires a longer stay or ongoing care, a medical visa may be more appropriate.

A medical visa may be required if:

• You are undergoing chemotherapy or long-term rehabilitation

• Your stay may exceed 90 days

• You plan to extend your stay depending on treatment progress

• You are traveling with a guardian for extended care

Common visa categories include:

• C-3-3 (Medical Tourism Visa) – Short-term medical stay

• G-1-10 (Long-Term Medical Treatment Visa) – Extended medical care

Your entry method should match your treatment plan.
Choosing the wrong entry route can affect your medical schedule.

3. Common Mistakes International Patients Make

We often see avoidable issues such as:

• Applying for K-ETA too late

• Entering incorrect passport details

• Assuming approval guarantees entry

• Entering visa-free when long-term treatment is planned

If entry complications occur, surgery schedules may be delayed or rescheduled.
That is why visa planning should be part of your medical planning.

4. How Should You Decide?

Here is a simple guideline:

• Short stay (under 90 days) → K-ETA may be sufficient

• Long-term or uncertain duration → Medical visa should be reviewed

• Complex treatment plans → Entry requirements should be checked in advance

The goal is not just finding a possible entry option —
but choosing the safest option aligned with your treatment timeline.

Medical Treatment in Korea Begins with Proper Entry Planning

Traveling to Korea for treatment is not just about selecting a hospital.
Your entry status, length of stay, recovery period, and follow-up care must align seamlessly.

At MEDIGRACE, we begin with symptom-based consultation and hospital matching,
then review entry eligibility and timeline coordination to ensure everything fits together.

Visa and administrative matters should not create stress.
They should be managed as part of a structured medical journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I enter Korea for surgery with K-ETA?

Yes, in many cases you can — if your nationality is eligible for visa-free entry and your stay is under 90 days. However, your treatment plan and length of stay should always match your entry status.

2. What happens if my treatment takes longer than 90 days?

If your treatment may extend beyond 90 days, you should review medical visa options before traveling. Entering under the wrong category can affect your ability to extend your stay.

3. Is K-ETA the same as a visa?

No. K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization for visa-free entry. It is not a visa. Final entry approval is decided by Korean immigration officers upon arrival.

4. How early should I apply for K-ETA?

It is recommended to apply at least 7–10 days before departure. Although processing is often completed within 72 hours, delays can occur.

5. What if my K-ETA is denied?

If your K-ETA is denied, you may need to apply for an appropriate visa through a Korean embassy or consulate in your country.

6. Can I extend my stay in Korea after entering with K-ETA?

Extensions are not guaranteed. If long-term treatment is expected, applying for a medical visa before traveling may be more appropriate.

7. Do I need a separate visa for cosmetic surgery?

For short-term cosmetic procedures under 90 days, K-ETA may be sufficient if you are from a visa-waiver country. However, confirm your eligibility before booking your flight.

8. What documents should I prepare for immigration?

Even when entering visa-free, it is helpful to carry:

• Hospital appointment confirmation

• Treatment summary (if available)

• Accommodation information

• Return flight ticket

9. Can a guardian travel with me?

Yes, but visa requirements apply individually. If long-term stay is required for a guardian, additional review may be necessary.

10. Who should I consult if I am unsure about my visa type?

If your treatment is complex or long-term, entry requirements should be reviewed carefully before confirming your medical schedule.

MEDIGRACE – Total Healthcare Journey Platform

MEDIGRACE is not simply a medical booking service.

We are a comprehensive healthcare journey platform —
supporting international patients from preparation to recovery.

Our services include:

• Hospital and specialist matching

• Entry and visa coordination

• Professional medical interpretation

• Airport pickup and transportation

• Hotel arrangements

• Personalized meal support (religious or medical dietary needs)

• Medication guidance

• Cultural and wellness experiences

• Post-treatment planning and follow-up coordination

Experience Korea’s premium medical concierge system without stress.

Medical care, administrative planning, language support, transportation, accommodation, lifestyle support —
all managed through one integrated system.

We walk the journey with you.

If you have any questions about Korea Medical Tourism Concierge or would like a free consultation, click the Free Consultation button below to request a free MediGrace consultation.

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