What you should know before travelling to South Korea from Australia during COVID-19

The latest on quarantine status, COVID-19 vaccine and test requirements and local restrictions for Australians travelling to South Korea.

We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!

originCovidCaseResp: 8169
destCovidCaseResp: 9045
Nestled in the middle of three seas, outside of the bustling cities South Korea brings lush green landscapes, intricately designed temples and festivals galore to Aussies visiting.

In this guide you’ll find travel exceptions for Australians headed to South Korea, current COVID-19 stats as well as permit, testing and quarantine requirements.

Can I travel from Australia to South Korea?

No, travellers from Australia aren’t currently permitted to visit South Korea for tourism purposes. South Korea has begun suspending direct flights between certain countries so Australian travellers should keep this in mind if booking.

Latest information for South Korea

maskairplaneairplane
Number of cases in past 7 daysBorder statusVaccine required?
9045ClosedNo

When can I travel to South Korea? When will the South Korea borders open?

There are yet to be talks of opening the border between South Korea and Australia – this page will be updated with the latest as soon as more information is made available.

COVID-19 statistics in South Korea vs Australia

Are there any exemptions for travelling to South Korea?

The exceptions to who can travel to South Korea from Australia are extremely limited, with only the following circumstances being permitted:

  • You are a South Korean citizen
  • You are a South Korean permanent resident
  • You are a Korean national
  • You are a non-Korean with a marriage visa (F-6)

Can I travel to South Korea if I'm a permanent resident or citizen?

Yes, if you're Australian and a permanent resident or citizen of South Korea, you are allowed to return to your home.

Like any traveller entering the country, those coming from Australia will be subject to the latest quarantine and COVID test rules.

What are the entry requirements for South Korea coming from Australia?

Do I need a permit to enter South Korea?

Yes, all Australian long-term visa holders who reside in South Korea must apply for a re-entry visa – the only exceptions are those who hold A1, A2, A3 or F4 visas. Australians should keep in mind that standard visa requirements still apply.

Do I need proof I've had a vaccine to travel?

No, at this point in time Australians don’t need proof of vaccination when entering South Korea.

Do I need proof I've had a negative test before departing for South Korea?

Yes, all approved foreign nationals from Australia must submit a negative COVID-19 (RT-PCR) test result taken within 72 hours of travel.

All Aussies will be required to test again for COVID-19 upon entry into South Korea and must remain at the facility until a negative result comes back – this requirement applies to all stay durations.

Do I need to quarantine when I arrive in South Korea?

Yes, all visitors from Australia entering Korea must quarantine for 14 days at home or at a treatment facility depending on the test results. Australians who fall into one of the following categories have the option of self-quarantining in their home for the two-week period if they show no symptoms upon arrival:

  • Korean nationals
  • Long-term foreign visitors who hold an Alien Registration Card
  • Korean residents (citizens and permanent residents)
The permitted Australian travellers who are visiting for the short term must complete their quarantine in a government facility and pay the KRW120,000 to cover the costs.

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Australia to South Korea:

Current travel deals to South Korea

Whether or not now is the right time to travel to South Korea, these deals are ready to go as soon as you are. Many companies are offering flexible travel options to South Korea or are discounting future travel, so it's a great time to bag a bargain.
AgodaAgoda
Exclusive

Extra 10% off worldwide hotels with code

Ends

Exclusive
Qatar AirwaysQatar Airways

Worldwide flights from $1,605 each way

Ends

CruiseDirectCruiseDirect

Up to USD$1,000 OBC on worldwide cruises with Princess Cruise Lines

Ends

G AdventuresG Adventures

12th person free on worldwide tours

Ends

Priceline.comPriceline.com

Up to 50% off worldwide stays

GVIGVI

Worldwide volunteering programs from $2,310

IHG AMEAIHG AMEA

Up to 5% extra savings on stays

HotwireHotwire

Extra $10 off worldwide hotels

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
Go to site