Great news for travelers and professionals! As of March 16, 2026, the Ministry of Justice has significantly expanded the list of countries eligible for Automated Immigration Clearance. By increasing the number of eligible countries from 18 to 42, South Korea is making entry faster, smoother, and more convenient for millions of visitors. Here is everything you need to know about the new “No Queue” system.
Korea expanded SmartEntry Service from 18 to 42 countries on March 16, 2026, adding 19 EU member states, Canada, and 4 non-EU Schengen countries. Check your nationality below.
Source: Ministry of Justice Korea, Korea Times (March 16, 2026). Country count as of March 2026 — check immigration.go.kr for the latest updates.
1. What is the Big Change?
Previously, only citizens from 18 countries could use the automated gates upon arrival. To boost tourism and revitalize the local economy, the Korean government has added 24 new countries, including Canada and most of the European Union (EU).
This means if you are from an eligible country, you no longer need to wait in long lines for a manual passport check by an officer.
2. Full List of 42 Eligible Countries (as of March 2026)
Check if your country is on the list! This table includes both the original 18 countries and the 24 newly added nations.
| Region | Eligible Countries |
| Asia & Oceania | Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, UAE |
| Americas | Canada (New), Mexico |
| EU Countries (30 Total) | Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden |
| Non-EU Schengen & UK | Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom |
Note: The expansion includes 19 EU countries and 4 non-EU Schengen countries added on March 16, 2026.
3. [Mini-Guide] How to Use the Automated Gates
Even without a long guide, you can pass through in less than 30 seconds by following these three steps:
- Scan Your Passport: Place your passport’s photo page on the scanner. The first gate will open.
- Facial & Fingerprint Recognition: Step inside and look at the camera for a facial scan. Place your index finger on the scanner if prompted.
- Finish & Go: Once verified, the second gate opens, and you are officially in South Korea!
4. Why is this happening?
Minister of Justice Jung Sung-ho stated that the goal is to make South Korea more accessible to global talent and tourists, contributing to economic growth. The expansion is based on reciprocity, particularly for Canada, where Korean citizens already enjoy simplified kiosk-based entry.
Korea Fast Track Entry(Smart Entry System)