South Korea to Israel visa requirements

South Korean ordinary passport holders do not need a visa for tourist visits to Israel of up to 90 days, but since 1 January 2025 they must obtain an approved ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before boarding a flight to Israel. South Korea is on Israel's list of visa-exempt countries, so Korean tourists are not required to obtain a traditional entry visa for short stays of up to 90 days. However, Israel launched a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) system that became fully required for visa-exempt air travelers on 1 January 2025. Korean travelers must apply online through the official Israel Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) portal at israel-entry.piba.gov.il before their trip. The ETA-IL costs 25 NIS, is generally approved within 72 hours (often immediately), permits multiple entries, and remains valid for up to 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Israel is NOT part of the Schengen area, so the Schengen 90/180 rule and ETIAS do not apply; the 90-day limit applies per entry under Israeli rules. Final admission is always at the discretion of Israeli border officials, who may ask for a return/onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds. The verdict is "eta" because, while no visa is needed, an approved ETA-IL is now a mandatory pre-travel requirement for air arrivals.