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Ireland
Korea Visa Guide
Korean Visa Guide for Irish Citizens
Ireland is one of only 7 E-2 treaty countries, giving Irish citizens unique access to Korea's English teacher visa market. With 90-day visa-free entry (K-ETA suspended through 2026) and a Working Holiday programme, Ireland has a small but active community in Seoul — particularly English teachers, IT professionals, and students. This guide covers all options for Irish nationals.
Review & source basis
Reviewed against
James Chae, 행정사 (Korean Licensed Administrative Attorney). License No. 220-06-06463 · 대한행정사회 (Korean Administrative Agents Association). Reviewed against the HiKorea 사증·체류업무 자격별 안내 매뉴얼 and cross-checked with Ministry of Justice issuances.
Last reviewed
April 22, 2026
Source references
Nationality-table sections covering Ireland's visa-exempt entry treatment, K-ETA suspension handling, and consular routing notes.
Visa-type issuance sections supporting the main Ireland-facing pathways, especially H-1, E-2, D-2, and F-6 routes.
Filing caution
Requirements can change by nationality, local immigration office, and filing channel. Confirm exact requirements with HiKorea, the responsible Korean consulate, or a licensed immigration specialist before filing.
No K-ETA required (suspended until 31 Dec 2026)
Irish passport holders can enter Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. K-ETA is suspended through 31 December 2026.
Key Facts for Ireland Citizens
Visa-free stay
90 days (tourism/business)
K-ETA required?
No — suspended until 31 Dec 2026
E-2 treaty country?
Yes — one of only 7
Working Holiday eligible?
Yes (age 18–30)
Irish in Korea
~1,500 registered residents
Korean Embassy in Ireland
Dublin (Sandyford)
Best next steps
Based on common visa paths for citizens of Ireland, here are the most useful next steps.
Korean Visa Options for Ireland Citizens
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Irish citizens need a visa for Korea?
No. Irish passport holders can enter Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. K-ETA is suspended through 31 December 2026.
Can Irish citizens teach English in Korea?
Yes — Ireland is one of only 7 E-2 treaty countries. Irish citizens with a bachelor's degree from an Irish university can apply for the E-2 English Teacher visa. The criminal background check is obtained from An Garda Síochána (National Vetting Bureau) and must be apostilled by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs. Teaching qualifications like CELTA or a PGCE (Post-Graduate Certificate in Education) significantly improve job prospects and salary offers from Korean schools.
How does Ireland compare to the UK for Korean work visas post-Brexit?
Irish and UK citizens have broadly similar Korean visa options — both hold E-2 treaty status and both have Working Holiday programmes. One practical difference: UK citizens have the unique UK-Korea bilateral arrangement extending the Working Holiday age limit to 35 with a 2-year stay, whereas the Irish WHV follows the standard 18–30 age and 1-year duration. For E-2 and long-term work visas, the two countries are equivalent.
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