Gone are the days of filling out those paper arrival cards on the plane. South Korea now uses a digital system called the "Q-Code" or e-Arrival Card. You MUST complete this online before your trip.
Don't worry, it's fast, free, and easy. This guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step.
What is the Korea e-Arrival Card (Q-Code)?
The Q-Code is South Korea's online system for collecting your arrival and health declaration information before you land. Its main purpose is to speed up the immigration process. Once you complete it, you'll get a QR code. You simply scan this at immigration, and you're good to go.
Key Things to Know:
Is it mandatory? Yes, for all travelers, including Filipino tourists.
Is it free? Yes. BEWARE of scam websites that ask for payment. Only use the official government portal.
When do I fill it out? You can only do it within 72 hours (3 days) of your flight's arrival time. Don't do it too early, or it will be invalid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the e-Arrival Card
Have your passport, flight details, and Korean hotel address ready.
Step 1: Go to the Official Q-Code Website
Again, never pay for this. The official government website is:
Click "Go" and select "Filipino" or "English" for the language.
Agree to the terms and conditions.
Step 2: Enter Your Passport and Email
Passport Number: Enter it exactly as it appears on your passport.
Email Address: Use an active email you can access. This is where they will send a confirmation.
Step 3: Enter Your Personal Information
Name: As it appears on your passport (Last Name, First Name).
Date of Birth: (YYYY/MM/DD)
Nationality: Philippines
Step 4: Enter Your Arrival Information
Date of Arrival: The day you land in Korea.
Flight Number: (e.g., 5J 188 or KE 624)
Address in Korea: This is important. Enter the full address of your hotel or accommodation. You can get this from your Agoda or Booking.com confirmation.
Contact Number: You can put your Philippine mobile number (e.g., +63 917...) or your hotel's phone number.
Step 5: The Health Declaration
This is the final section. You will be asked simple "Yes" or "No" questions about:
Countries you have visited in the last 21 days.
Whether you are experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, etc.).
Answer everything honestly.
Step 6: Submit and Get Your QR Code
Once you submit, a Q-Code (a QR code) will be generated on the screen.
IMPORTANT:
Take a screenshot of this QR code.
Save it to your phone's photo gallery.
A copy will also be sent to your email. Save that email.
What to Do When You Arrive at Incheon Airport
This is the easy part.
When you get to the immigration hall, you will see a "Q-Code" lane.
Open the screenshot of your QR code on your phone.
Scan it at the gate.
Proceed to the immigration officer for your passport stamp.
That's it! You've just saved yourself 20 minutes of hassle.
FAQs for Filipinos
Q: I made a mistake! Can I edit it? A: Yes. You can go back to the Q-Code website, enter your passport number, and edit your submission before you arrive.
Q: What if my phone battery dies? A: This is why it's good to also save the email confirmation. As a last resort, you can fill out a paper arrival card at the airport, but it's much slower. Have your QR code saved and your phone charged.
Q: I have my visa. Do I still need this? A: Yes. The visa (from KVAC) gets you permission to travel. The e-Arrival Card (Q-Code) is your registration for arrival and health clearance. You need both.
➡️ Back to the Main Guide:
The Ultimate 2026 Korea Travel Guide for Filipinos ➡️ Need a Visa?
How to Apply for a Korean Visa in the Philippines (2026)
✉️ Get Future Korea Travel Deals & Tours
Join our exclusive travel list. We will *only* email you about Pinoy-friendly travel services, group tour opportunities, or special travel-related events.Join the Travel List
Ready for Your Flight?
Get more last-minute tips, ask questions, and listen to Pinoy Seoul Radio!
COMMENTS