Korea travel photo preparation
K-ETA application photo checklist
Complete the eligibility check and prepare your photo file before you pay for or submit your K-ETA application.
Checked: 2026-07-08
The photo conditions to check first
- Check whether your nationality is temporarily exempt from K-ETA in 2026.
- Prepare passport information, your stay address, a payment method, and a JPG portrait photo that meets the K-ETA size limits.
- K-ETA approval does not guarantee entry; immigration makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Check exemption before preparing the photo
Korea has extended temporary K-ETA exemption for certain countries and regions until December 31, 2026. If you are exempt, you may not need to apply, though some travelers may still apply voluntarily for arrival-card convenience.
Because exemption lists and entry conditions can change, check the official K-ETA or Korean government notice close to your travel date.
- Nationality and passport
- Purpose and length of stay
- Temporary exemption status
- Arrival card and convenience considerations
Have the photo ready before the form times out
K-ETA forms can be tedious if you stop halfway to resize a photo. Prepare the JPG first, then keep passport information, accommodation address, and payment card nearby.
Review spelling, passport number, birth date, and photo before payment because wrong information may require a new application.
Create your photo with the iPhone appOpen the App Store
About official sources
The photo preparation information is based on public K-ETA guidance, Korea immigration notices, Korea visa e-Form document guidance, and Korea Visa Portal references. The content focuses on photo preparation only, not eligibility advice or application submission.
This website and app are independent photo file preparation tools. They are not affiliated with the Korean government, Korea Immigration Service, K-ETA, Korea Visa Portal, or any Korean diplomatic mission, and they do not guarantee photo acceptance, authorization, visa issuance, or entry.
Photo conditions that can cause problems
These failures tend to come from ordinary image problems, not complicated visa rules.
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Oversized file
A phone photo can be several MB. Resize first, then compress, so the face remains sharp under the limit.
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Wrong photo type
Do not upload a print sheet, a passport scan, or a photo of a printed photo when the portal expects a portrait file.
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Weak identity visibility
Shadows, glare, heavy filters, hair over the eyes, or a tilted face can make identity confirmation harder.
Where the app helps
K-ETA crop
Exports a 600 x 600 px JPG for K-ETA-style upload limits.
On-device privacy
Photo processing happens on the iPhone; the app does not upload your image to a server.
Separate Korea visa route
Use the 35 x 45 mm Korea visa mode when your application needs a visa photograph rather than a K-ETA portrait upload.
The app prepares the photo file only. Submit your application through the official route and confirm the latest requirement before using the file.
FAQ
Should I apply for K-ETA at the last minute?
Avoid last-minute submission. Official guidance points to applying in advance, and additional review may add extra days.
What if I am exempt but want arrival-card convenience?
Some official notices say exempt nationals may apply voluntarily. Confirm the current rule and fee before deciding.
Does shoumei.org submit my K-ETA?
No. It only prepares the photo file. You submit through the official K-ETA route.
Official sources
- K-ETA official application guide Checked: 2026-07-08
- Embassy of the Republic of Korea - K-ETA temporary exemption notice Checked: 2026-07-08
- VISITKOREA - K-ETA exemption period extended until 2026 Checked: 2026-07-08