After more than two years, South Korea removes the quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travelers entering and traveling throughout the country.
Starting April 1, the country will be allowing quarantine-free travel across South Korea for international travelers who have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations. According to the Korea Tourism Organization, the new quarantine exemption applies to travelers who have received their booster dose of the vaccine. It also applies to those who have completed the initial two doses (one dose for Janssen) within 180 days. Travelers who have taken their doses more than 180 days ago will be required to get a booster shot.
Keep reading for travel guidelines and everything Filipinos need to know about the rules for traveling to South Korea.
UPDATE: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines has announced on 20 May 2022 that it will resume the processing of all types of tourist visas, including (C-3-9) starting 1 June 2022. For more information on visa issuance, visit the embassy’s official website.
At a Glance
Entry for Fully Vaccinated Travelers: Yes.
Tourist Entry: YES for Filipinos starting 1 June 2022
Vaccination Requirements: Three doses, including a booster shot. Initial two doses are allowed if taken within 180 days of traveling.
Test Requirements: RT-PCR within 48 hours of departure or a negative RAT certificate (issued within 24 hours) prior to the departure date.
Quarantine Requirements: None for fully vaccinated travelers. For the full quarantine protocols, read the notice from the Embassy.
Can I travel to South Korea now?
As of April 1, South Korea is opening its borders to travelers from all over the world. Fully vaccinated travelers will be able to enter and travel throughout the country without quarantine measures.
Leisure travelers from the Philippines can apply for a tourist visa starting 1 June 2022 according to the official website of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines. Individuals carrying a multiple-entry tourist visa issued before 5 April 2020 that has not expired can also be used without re-application.
View the full notice on the embassy’s official website.
What are the travel requirements for South Korea?
Negative COVID-19 Test Result
International travelers visiting South Korea must provide a negative RT-PCR or Antigen test that was taken at least 48 hours prior to departure from the country of origin.
QR Code from Q-CODE System
Register your health information, vaccination history, and other relevant travel information online through the Quarantine COVID-19 Defense (Q-CODE) System. Prepare the following documents: your valid passport, email address, airline ticket, and negative COVID-19 test. After completing the form, you will be given a QR code to present upon boarding your flight.
Other requirements
- Visa for Philippine passport holders
- Valid vaccination certificate via VaxCertPH
What are COVID-19 rules like in South Korea right now?
Face masks are required in indoor public places and public transport. Mask requirements also apply in outdoor areas where 2-meter social distancing measures aren’t possible.
Head to KKday for the latest travel advisories in South Korea and other countries.
