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• Korea Visa Application Center

e-Visa Application via the Visa Portal

Visa application via korean diplomatic missions abroad, confirmation of visa issuance application via the visa portal.

• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration

1. Application Process

Select “Application” >> “E-Visa(Individual)” on the Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

2. Applicant

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor on behalf of the foreigner

3. Applicable Status of Stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), and Professional (E-5) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign Notional of Special Ability (E-7) visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must be an expert in advanced science and technology and have an official employment recommendation letter (a.k.a. GOLD CARD)
• Short-term General (C-3-1) Visa for a prospective investor invited by a promotion agency of the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business and his/her accompanying family members
• Short-term Group Tourist (C-3-2) Visa for Chinese group tourists who can apply for their Visa through a designated travel agency
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’ designated as e-Visa agency.

- Qualifications : A foreigner who has entered Korea 3 times or more with a Short-term (C-3) Visa since the implementation of the fingerprint confirmation system for foreigner on Jan. 1, 2012, and who has no history of illegal stay or criminal cases

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details.

4. Required Documents

• Visa Application Form (electronic form on the Visa Portal)
• Scanned image files of passport pages
• Digital Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)
• Fee (credit card for e-Payment)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of visa on the Visa Navigator or to the Visa Information on the website of a respective diplomatic office.

5. Procedure

Application by the applicant

• 1. Applicant - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 2. Applicant - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 3. Applicant - Submission of Application (Visa portal)
• 4. sponsor (corporation/individual) - Confirmation Invitation (Visa portal)
• 5. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 7. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 8. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

Application by the sponsor (inviter)

• 1. sponsor - Login (Visa portal)
• 2. sponsor - completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. sponsor - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 4. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 5. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 7. Applicants - Arrival in Korea (Visa portal)

1. Application process

Select “Application" >> "Confirmation of Visa Issuance” on Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

Application must be filed by the inviter (sponsor)

3. Applicable status of stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4) Professional (E-5) for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must have an occupation under category 1 (executives) or 2 (professionals or related) of the Standard Classification of Occupation announced by the National Statistical Office
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’
• Business Visitor (C-3-6) visa for an invitee of a VIP corporation
• Student (D-2) and Korean Language Trainee (D-4-1) visa
• Non-professional(E-9) and Maritime Crew (E-10) visa

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more detail.

• Application form for Confirmation of Visa Issuance (electronic form on the Visa Portal)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of Visa on the Visa Navigator, or to the Visa information on the board of the respective website of the Diplomatic Office.

• 2. sponsor - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 4. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 5. sponsor, Applicant - Download Visa application Form (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor - Submission of Visa Application & Payment
• 7. Visa Consul - Visa issuance (Diplomatic Office)

6. Check the Result of Your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application

You can check the result of your application – through “Application Status” via the Visa Portal, ARS (02-2650-6363), text message or e-mail address you gave us.

7. Visa Application

• The sponsor (inviter) must download Visa application form (for the applicant) from “Application Status” on the Visa Portal, and send it to the applicant via email, or inform him/her of the number and expiry date of the confirmation of visa issuance.
• The applicant must receive Visa application form for the confirmation of visa issuance or its number (expiry date) from the sponsor in Korea in order to apply for his/her visa at the Korean Embassy or Consulate General.

Confirmation of Visa issuance is valid for 3 months, and is effective for visa issuance just for once. For any other inquiries, please contact the Immigration Contact center (+1345 without an area code or +82+1345 if you are calling from abroad).

1. Location of Application

Korean Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country (or area) of residence.

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or a visa agency on behalf of the foreigner

• A single-entry or multiple-entry visa for eligible applicants of Diplomat(A-1), Government Official(A-2) Visa
• A single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less), for eligible applicants of - Short-term News Coverage (C-1), Short-term General (C-3) and Short-term Employee (C-4)
• A multiple-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Short-term News Coverage (C-1) and Short-term General (C-3) Visa who are citizens of countries that have multiple-entry visa agreements with Korea.
• Visas issued at the discretion of the head of a Korean diplomatic mission abroad, such as single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Korean Arts and Culture (D-1) Visa who are planning to engage in cultural arts activities upon invitation of the Korea Foundation or from Korean Culture and Arts Committee

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details

• Visa Application Form (application form No.17, or please click the ‘Application’ menu on the Visa Portal >> Fill out the electronic form)
• Photo (natural color, 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- You can pay the fee in the currency of your own country only if you receive permission from the head of the Korean diplomatic mission in your country.

The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. Depending on the circumstances of one’s country, the head of the Korean diplomatic mission may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation. Therefore, in the case that required documents on the Visa Navigator do not match with those of the diplomatic mission, please follow the instructions and requirements provided by the respective diplomatic mission.

• 1. Applicant - Submission of Application
• 2. Visa Consul - Reception & Review (Diplomatic Office)
• 3. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 4. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

※ For any other inquiries, please contact the consular affair Korean diplomatic missions in your country of residence.

Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration Offices

Korean Immigration Office that has jurisdiction over the area of inviter’s residence

2. Applicants

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor/agency (E-9, E-10) on behalf of the foreigner

• Long-term Korean Arts and Culture (D-1), Student (D-2), Industrial trainee (D-3), General trainee (D-4), Long-term News Coverage (D-5), Religious Worker (D-6), Intra-company Transferee (D-7), Corporate/Foreign investor (D-8), International Trade (D-9), Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), Professional (E-5), Artists/Athlete (E-6), Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7), Non-professional (E-9), Maritime Crew (E-10), Family Visitor (F-1), Dependent Family (F-3), Miscellaneous (G-1), and Work and Visit (H-2) Visa for eligible applicants
• Long-term Visa for citizens of countries with no formal diplomatic relations with Korea, or just specific countries (i.e. Cuba, Syria, and Macedonia) designated by the Korean government.
• Other people recognized by the Minister of Justice as needed
• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application Form (Form No.21)
• Photocopy of passport pages
• Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. The head of the immigration office may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation.

• The employment certificate and a copy of the representative’s ID, and a letter of attorney are required if the representative applies on behalf of the applicant. (Representative’s application may be restricted when further evaluation is required)

5. Procedures

• 1. sponsor - Completion of Application Form
• 2. Visa official - Reception & Review (Jurisdiction office)
• 3. sponsor, Applicant - Sending Confirmation No
• 4. Application - Submission (Diplomatic Office)
• 5. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 6. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

6. Notification of evaluation results

7. Visa Issuance

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Building#1, Government Complex-Gwacheon, 47, Gwanmun-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea ( Immigration Contact Center : +82-1345 )

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• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Apply for a Korean Tourist Visa

Last Updated: February 22, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is an in-house legal expert at wikiHow. Jennifer reviews, fact-checks, and evaluates wikiHow's legal content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. She received her JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 7,401 times.

If you want to travel to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) for a short visit as a tourist, you typically don't need a visa. However, if your trip is going to take more than 90 days (30 days for nationals of some countries), you'll need a tourist visa. You can apply for a tourist visa either online or at the Korean embassy or consulate closest to you. Immigration officers will give you your visa when you go through customs at the port of entry. [1] X Research source

Completing a Visa Application

• If you plan to stay in Korea for longer, you still need a visa, even if you are going to Korea to participate in tourist activities.
• For a list of countries that have been granted visa-free travel to Korea, visit https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TRV/TV_ENG_2_1.jsp .

• For example, if you are a Chinese national and are traveling to Korea with a tour group, you would need a C-3-2 group tourist visa.
• Use Korea's Visa Navigator, available online at https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10101 , to determine which visa category is right for you.

• If you're planning to submit your application online, make sure you have a digital copy of your passport photo that you can upload.

• The application requires you to provide information about yourself, your citizenship, and your reasons for wanting to visit Korea. Answer every question completely and honestly.
• You can also fill out a paper application at the Korean embassy or consulate nearest you. To find contact information, go to http://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/index.do and select the name of your country from the drop-down menu at the top of the page.

Tip: A past criminal conviction or other negative information won't necessarily cause Korean immigration officials to deny your tourist application. However, your application will be denied if they discover that you lied on your application or left out any relevant information.

• For example, if you are a Chinese national traveling with a tour group on a group tourist visa, you'll need a confirmation page showing that you're booked for the tour, along with information about the tour company and where you'll be staying while you're in Korea.
• You'll likely need to show that you have a return flight out of the country before your visa expires along with information about your accommodations in Korea. If you're staying with friends or family while in Korea, you'll likely need a letter from them.

Submitting Your Application

• If you submit your application electronically, you must also pay your application fee electronically. The amount of your application fee varies depending on your country of origin. The visa portal accepts major credit and debit cards for payment.

Warning: You don't necessarily have to pay your application fee at the same time that you submit your completed application. However, your application won't be processed until after the fee is paid.

• Go to http://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/index.do and select the name of the country where you live from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. You'll see contact information for all of the Korean embassies and consulates in your country. Simply pick the one that's closest to you.
• If you're submitting your application in person, you can still fill out the application online if you want. Print the completed application and take it with you to the Korean embassy or consulate.

Warning: If you submit your application in person, you must pay your application fee immediately. Call ahead to find out what methods of payment are accepted. Many Korean embassies and consulates don't take credit or debit cards.

• For example, if you are visiting Korea as a medical tourist to have a medical procedure done as well as engage in tourist activities, you typically need confirmation from the doctor or from the hospital where the procedure will take place.
• Most tourist visas don't require a sponsor. However, if you're concerned that your application might be denied, a sponsor might help improve your chances.

• Electronic visas will be programmed into your passport. You'll get the print visa when you go through customs at the port of entry.
• If you need a paper visa in your passport before you depart for Korea, you'll have to turn over your passport to the nearest embassy or consulate. When your visa is ready, they'll mail your passport back to you with the visa inside.
• If your application is denied, you typically won't be told why. However, you're welcome to reapply immediately. No part of your application fee will be refunded if your application is denied and you'll have to pay the fee in full again if you decide to apply again.

Traveling to Korea

• If you applied for your visa in person at a Korean embassy or consulate, you'll get a confirmation letter in the mail. Take that confirmation letter with you when you travel to Korea.

• If you bring something with you that is not allowed in Korea, it will be confiscated and you may not get it back. To avoid this, check the list of items that aren't allowed before you start packing for your trip.

• Read the instructions carefully and make sure you enter your information neatly and legibly.

• The customs officer will look over your paperwork and confirm your identity. They may also ask you questions about your trip or your plans in Korea.
• If the customs officer approves you to enter the country, they will place your visa in your passport. Pay close attention to the date your visa expires and make sure you've left the country before that date. While you can try to extend an expired tourist visa, it is a difficult process with no guarantees.

Warning: Having a visa does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter Korea. Korean immigration officers have broad authority to determine who will be allowed into the country.

• There are also two Medical TICs at the Busan and Incheon International Airports. At these TICs, you can learn about medical tourism and get a free customized consultation if you think medical tourism might benefit you.

Expert Q&A

• This article covers how to get a tourist visa for the Republic of Korea (South Korea). Tourists are typically advised not to travel to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) due to the high security risk. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TRV/TV_ENG_2_1.jsp
• ↑ https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10102
• ↑ https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10105
• ↑ https://www.airport.kr/ap_cnt/en/arr/process/immpro.do
• ↑ https://www.airport.kr/ap_lp/en/arr/process/immexa/immexa.do
• ↑ https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TRV/TV_ENG_3_2_1.jsp
• ↑ https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/north-korea-democratic-peoples-republic-korea

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

South Korea Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: March 29, 2024

South Korea’s visa policy is generally simple but has a couple of exceptions and specific rules that allow visa-free access where otherwise a visa would be necessary.

The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) was introduced in September 2021 and is now mandatory for all travelers without visas 18 or older and 65 or younger. This means there is no true visa exemption anymore. However, some nationalities are exempt from the K-ETA until 31 December 2024.

In this article, I will guide you through South Korea visa requirements, K-ETA, tourist visas and exceptions.

Table of Contents

Visa policy and visa types.

Passport holders from 110 countries do not need a visa to travel to South Korea. Unless temporarily exempt, all visa-exempt nationals between 18 and 64 (inclusive) must have a pre-approved K-ETA to travel to South Korea.

There are also various provisions for short-term visa exemptions for other nationalities:

• 30-day visa exemption for holders of visas or residence permits from select countries and in transit to a third country
• 30-day visa waiver for Jeju Island if arriving by direct flight
• 15-day visa exemption for tour groups visiting various regions in Korea
• Tours around Seoul if in transit

In all other circumstances, a tourist visa is required to enter Korea.

South Korea doesn’t issue Visa on Arrival (VOA) or eVisa for tourists.

South Korea Visa Requirements 

• Passport’s expiry date must be after the intended departure date (no extended validity required)
• Return or onward ticket
• K-ETA if visa-exempt (unless temporarily waived)

Visa Exemption (K-ETA Required)

South Korea introduced its form of Electronic Travel Authorization called K-ETA in September 2021. K-ETA is now MANDATORY for all visitors who are exempt from visas. Some nationalities are temporarily exempt until 31 December 2024.

K-ETA eligibility

110 nationalities are visa-exempt. The duration of stay varies from 30 days to 6 months. You must obtain K-ETA before traveling (unless your nationality is exempt until 31 December 2024 ).

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan #
• Marshall Islands
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• Vatican City

* Total stay must not exceed 90 days within any 180 days # Total stay must not exceed 60 days within any 180 days

K-ETA validity 

The K-ETA is valid for 3 years from the date of approval but cannot be longer than the validity of the applicant’s passport.

Applications submitted before 3 July 2023 only received 2-year validity.

The K-ETA costs 10.000 KRW (~8$), payable by card during the online application. A 3% card processing fee is levied, bringing the total to 10.300 KRW.

K-ETA application

You can apply for the K-ETA online on the only official website – the K-ETA Application Portal . Beware of agents and intermediaries posing for official sources.

All you need is your passport, a valid email address, and a debit or credit card.

K-ETA processing time

The processing time of the K-ETA is usually at most 72 hours but can be longer in rare instances.

K-ETA exemption based on age

Everybody younger than 18 years is exempt from the K-ETA. Everybody 65 or older is exempt too.

For more information, read the South Korea K-ETA article for details on the documents required, the application process and current K-ETA exempted countries (until 31 Dec 2024).

Visa Exemption (Jeju Island Visa Waiver)

Jeju Island has its own visa waiver provisions to boost tourism to South Korea’s most popular holiday destination.

Below are the key requirements for Jeju Island visa waiver provision:

• All nationalities except the below 23 are eligible for Jeju Island visa exemption
• Jeju Island visa exemption is valid for 30 days only for the province
• Visitors must enter and depart Jeju via direct flight (i.e. without stopping in any other part of South Korea).
• Visa-exempt but K-ETA-required nationalities must still obtain K-ETA unless temporarily exempt

Ineligible countries

Jeju Island visa exemption is not available for these 23 countries:

• Afghanistan

The above 23 countries also become eligible if they:

• Have a Certificate of Invitation issued by the Jeju Government or Jeju Island Immigration Office (OR)
• Hold a permanent residence permit from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, or USA AND have previously visited South Korea 3 times since 1996 or once since 2006

Visa Exemption (Visa Holders of Third Countries)

You’re eligible for a 30-day visa exemption if you have a visa or a residence permit from one of the following countries :

You MUST also meet ONE of the following requirements:

• You arrive in South Korea from one of these countries and depart for a third country
• You arrive in South Korea from a third country and depart to one of these countries
• You arrive in South Korea from one of these countries and have transited in a fourth country for less than 72 hours before entering South Korea. You then depart for a third country.
• You arrive in South Korea from a third country, then depart for one of these countries, and will transit to a fourth country for less than 72 hours.

Visa Exemption (Transit Tours at Seoul’s Incheon Airport)

If you’re in transit at Seoul’s Incheon International for less than 24 hours (which is the limit anyway), you’re eligible for any of the free tours around Seoul.

The tours range in price from free to $150 golf courses although most are cheaper than $5. They range from 1 hour to 5 hours in duration.

You can check out the tours and book online via the Incheon Airport website .

Upon arrival, go to the Information desks at either terminal to get routed to your tour.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country but require K-ETA, you must still obtain K-ETA (unless temporarily exempt) for transit tours at Incheon Airport. 

The following 23 countries are not eligible for transit tours:

Visa Exemption (Tour Groups)

Various visa exemptions exist for organized tour groups.

Gangwon-do Region

A 15-day visa exemption for Gangwon-do and Seoul Metropolitan Area is available to tour groups from:

• Philippines

This is only if flying in and out of Yangyang International Airport until May 30, 2024.

Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, Jeju-do Regions

A 15-day visa exemption for these regions is available to tour groups from:

This is only if flying in and out of Muan International Airport until March 31, 2024.

Traveling to Jeju via Seoul, Busan, Cheongju, Muan, or Yangyang

This exemption is only available to Chinese tour groups.

It allows stays on the mainland of South Korea for up to 5 days followed by up to 15 days on Jeju Island.

Tourist Visa from the Embassy

Visitors seeking a tourist visa must obtain it from a South Korean embassy. None of the available e-visas are for short-term tourism visits.

The standard visa for tourism is C-3-9 (Ordinary Tourist).

Requirements

• Visa Application Form #17 (fill it out online)
• Passport valid for the duration of stay
• A standard-size color photo
• Proof of enough funds for the duration of stay in Korea
• Complete Visa Application Form online
• Submit and pay
• Receive an invitation for the interview
• Visit the chosen embassy and conduct the interview
• Check results online
• Download and print visa.

For more information, read the South Korea tourist visa article for details on visa validity, documentation, fee and application procedure.

Benefits of South Korea tourist visa

South Korea visa may not be the strongest, but it does come with VISA-FREE access to a handful of countries. In 2024, you can travel to about 8 countries with a South Korean visa. Read the article on  VISA-FREE countries for South Korea visa for more details.

Transit Visa

If you’re not leaving the airport’s transit zone (i.e. not clearing immigration) you do not need a visa or a K-ETA under the condition that:

• Incheon Airport (Seoul): You depart within 24 hours;
• All other airports: You depart on the same calendar day.

If you will be passing through immigration, you must obtain a transit visa, K-ETA or utilize visa exemption as part of one of the transit tours. 

South Korea Arrival Card

Tourists arriving in South Korea have to fill out and submit an arrival card. This is a standard procedure in many countries and chances are that you will be given a card already in the airplane.

If you hold a K-ETA, you’re automatically exempt from having to complete and submit an arrival card.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should i apply for k-eta for my children.

Provided your children are 17 years old or younger, it is not necessary to apply for K-ETA for them.

Should I apply for K-ETA if I have a tourist visa?

No. If you have a visa for South Korea you don’t need to submit K-ETA. The K-ETA is only for visa-exempt nationalities.

Do I need a new K-ETA for every visit to Korea?

No. The K-ETA is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. As long as it’s valid, you don’t need to apply for a new one.

Do I need a K-ETA to travel to Jeju Island?

Yes. Even though Jeju has special visa waivers, you still need to submit a K-ETA.

How much money should I have when I apply for a South Korean tourist visa?

Embassies do not disclose this information and it depends. Travelers have been saying that you need to have a minimum of 150$ per day in your bank account.

Do I need proof of COVID vaccination or a COVID test before traveling to South Korea?

Currently, South Korea does not require any COVID-19 vaccination certificates, testing, or quarantine for entry.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Visas for South Korea: here’s what you need to know

Feb 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Visiting South Korea lets you take in the country’s cutting-edge cities and beautiful natural attractions © Joel Carillet / Getty Images

Not many countries have the sights-to-size ratio of South Korea . You can get from one corner of the country to the other in just two and a half hours, and in between you’ll find mountain trails leading to Buddhist hermitages, super-spectacle K-Pop concerts, back-alley pubs serving craft rice wines, enchanting bamboo forests and much more.

Getting the most out of a visit here starts with getting your entry requirements in order, a simple enough process for most travelers. Here are the basics on who needs a visa to South Korea and how to apply.

Who can travel to South Korea visa-free?

Many travelers – including those from the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries – can visit Korea for up to 90 days with no visa required. Canadians can do so for up to six months, while South Africans get 30 days. To check the most up-to-date requirements for your country, visit the Korean government’s Visa Portal and enter your information in its  Visa Navigator .

Although you might not need a visa, you will need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (₩10,000) on the  K-ETA website or K-ETA app (for  iOS  and  Android ) at least 72 hours before your departure. Once you’ve applied, you should receive your results via email within 24 hours. Your K-ETA will remain valid for two years from the date your application is approved, meaning you don’t have to reapply if you visit multiple times within that window.

Who needs a tourist visa for South Korea?

Citizens of countries that don’t have a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea or that Korea doesn’t grant visa-free entry will need a visa, which is typically for a single entry and permits stays of 90 days.

If you do need a visa, after entering your information in the Visa Navigator , select the visa you’re applying for (most likely Ordinary Tourist, or C-3-9) and then find the eligibility criteria that applies to you (most likely “travel for holidays or leisure”). Complete your application online ( e-Form ) or by hand ( downloadable PDF ) and then visit a Korean embassy or consulate with your application or a printout of your completed e-Form, your passport, a 3.5cm x 4.5cm (1.4in x 1.7in) passport photo and any additional required documents. The application fee for a basic tourist visa is $40, though it can vary by country.

The Jeju-do visa exception

Jeju-do Island is a designated Special Tourist Zone, which means many (though not all) citizens from countries that require visas for South Korea do not need them to visit Jeju-do for up to 30 days. Note that you must arrive in Jeju-do via ship or direct flight from abroad; you may not connect through another South Korean airport.

Extending your stay in South Korea

In almost all cases, if you’re visiting South Korea as a tourist, you are not allowed to extend your stay. If you need to stay longer because of an emergency, however, contact the Korea Immigration Service. The Hi Korea website provides immigration info for international visitors and residents.

Visas for working and studying in South Korea

Thanks to its all-conquering pop culture and dynamic economy, South Korea is an attractive destination for international students and professionals, and a wide range of visas is available for those wishing to study or work in the country. The first step is determining which visa you need, whether you’re seeking to enroll in a Korean university, teach English or do something else. You can sort through the options and get details on eligibility and requirements at the Visa Navigator  site. Work and study visas generally permit stays of up to two years, with one year being the most common length.

Working holidays in South Korea

South Korea offers one-year working holiday visas to citizens of 25 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many European nations. Travelers with a working-holiday visa are permitted to work up to 25 hours per week and can also study the Korean language at private academies and university programs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Working Holiday Info Center and Working Holiday Guide provide extensive information on who can apply, what the restrictions are, and work, study and housing resources.

Visas for people of Korean descent

If you’re of South Korean descent, you’ll likely have the option of applying for an overseas Korean visa, colloquially referred to as a gyopo visa. These are available to individuals who were born in Korea but have acquired another country’s citizenship or whose parent or grandparent was a Korean citizen. These visas allow initial stays of up to two years and provide a lot of flexibility in terms of what you can do for work or study.

This article was first published July 2022 and updated February 2024

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Korea Solved

Types Of Visas In Korea: Explained

Much like its diverse landscapes , from bustling cities to serene countryside, Korea offers a myriad of visa options tailored to various purposes.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, eager student, or a wanderlusting tourist, there’s a Korean visa with your name on it.

Let’s demystify the choices together.

Why One Needs A Korean Visa? 

There can be various reasons one would require a Korean visa. People who are not Korean citizens or permanent residents of Korea will require a Korean visa if they want to visit Korea for different purposes. 

Some of the reasons have been given below:

• For Touring
• For Attending an event  
• For Visiting family
• For Studying . 
• For Looking for jobs .
• Or even for Working . 
• Or want to settle down in Korea permanently .

Each specific reason, as mentioned above, requires a different Korean visa . Some of the Korean visas with the purpose of visits have been shown in the table below:

What Are The Different Types Of Visas In South Korea?

There are different types of visas in South Korea. They are mainly classified based on the reason for the stay, how long the stay will be, and how many entries the applicant will make into South Korea. 

So, on the basis of duration of stay, the South Korean Visas have been classified into two main categories as following:

Short-Term Stay Visa

• Long-Term Stay Visa

Short-term visit visas in South Korea allow one to stay for a maximum of 90 days and also allow a single entry. One can take this visa for different reasons like tourism, visiting family, or attending sports, musical, or literary activities.

• South Korea Tourist Visa (C-3-9)
• Tourist / Transit (General) (B-2-1)
• Tourist / Transit  (B-2-2)
• Group Tourist (C-3-2)
• Business Visitor (General) (C-3-4)
• Business Visitor (Agreement) (C-3-5)
• Business Visitor (Sponsored) (C-3-6)
• Direct Transit Visa(Air-side)(C-3-10)
• Short-term Visitor (Overseas Korean) (C-3-8)
• Working Holiday (H-1)

Long-Term Visit Visa

The Long-term visit visa allows one to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days and may also allow multiple entries. 

The duration of the long-term visit visa may extend from 3 months to 5 years , depending on the reason and purpose of the visit.

One may apply for long-term visas for any taxable employment , enrollment in Korean educational institutes , investments, or initiating start-ups. 

Also, family visits and getting medical treatment come under long-term visa activities. 

Both professionals and non-professionals can apply for the Long-term visit visa in Korea. Their purposes have been sorted below: 

Professionals Applying For Korean Long-Term Visas:

• People want to invest in Korea.
• Foreigners visiting for professional work. 
• Trainees in specific fields.
• Diplomats 
• People Conducting Official Business
• Any individual undergoing Intra-Company Transfer
• Individuals participating in International Trade.

Non – Professionals applying for Korean Long Term Visas:

• A dependent family member visiting family in Korea.
• Studying or undergoing Korean Language Training
• For journalists .
• For people participating in religious affairs
• Koreans living Overseas have a Korean national as a parent.
• Spouse of a Korean citizen who wants to migrate to Korea through Marriage.
• People who need to get medical treatment in Korea.

Further Classification Of The Korean Visas 

Each South Korean visa type is classified under the following alphabetic series of sub-classes :

A Series (Diplomacy Visa)

The Korean Visas A1 – A3 are used for diplomats, government officials, and other state officials following any signed agreements or any professional of the international organization. 

B Series (Tourist Visa)

The Korean visas B1 and B2 are commonly known as tourist and transit visas. People can apply for these visas who either want to visit Korea as a tourist or are staying in Korea for a limited time when transiting through Korea while going to their destination. 

Usually, people taking connecting flights apply for a transit visa (B2) when the stay over includes waiting in the airport for long hours. 

C Series (Short-term Multipurpose Visa)

The C1- C4 visa allows one a short-term stay for a maximum of 90 days and allows one to do either of the following tasks:

• Temporary news coverage
• Short-term business transaction
• Visit and tour South Korea 
• Short-term employment

D Series (For Professionals) 

The D1- D10 visa allows professionals to visit Korea and accomplish tasks. The professionals include artists like painters, writers and musicians, singers and actors , and performers. 

Other than performers, this visa helps students , industrial and medical trainees, journalists, religious preachers or researchers, corporate investors , international trade participants, and job seekers  to visit Korea and fulfill their assigned tasks.

Furthermore, the D series visa has different types, which have been given below:

Business Visa

• Job-Seeker visa

Investment Visa

• Self-employment Visa
• Student Visa

All of the different types of visas belonging to the Korean D-Series Visas have been further explained in detail below:

One would require a business visa to invest in Korea or to dwell deeper into any business initiative in Korea. One can choose from the following types of business visas for different types of investment that one may want:

• Intra-company transfer (D-7)
• Corporate investment (D-8)
• Trade management (D-9)

Job Seeker Visa (D-10)

If one has not secured a job in South Korea but wants to work there, one can apply for a Job seeker visa. By applying for a D-10 visa, one can look for a job and get familiar with the Korean culture and language. 

As the point-based system of Korea is rigorous, one may not qualify for the D-8-4 start-up visa . In this case, one may apply for an investment visa D-8-1.  

One can invest 100,000 USD or 134,435,500.00 SKW or more into one’s company.

Self-Employment Visas

South Korea also issues self-employment visas to people wanting to pursue business in Korea. The different types of self-employment visas given to people depend on the industry in which they want to start their business.

The following examples show the associated Korean self-employment visas in relation to specific industries.

• D-8-4 visa is issued to people who want to work in technology and start their business ventures, which promotes economic growth in Korea.
• D-10-2 start-up visa allows foreigners to prepare for entrepreneurship in Korea by attending Overall Assistance of Start-up Immigration System (OASIS) training .

Also, the self-employment visa follows a point-based system. To get allocated with a D-10-2 visa , one needs to gain 340 points in total. One would need 80 points to qualify for the D-8-4 start-up visa. 

All the self-employment visas allow only single entry into Korea and are valid for three month s. One may apply for an extension with one-year intervals in between. 

If one plans to study in South Korea, one will need to apply for a (D-2) student visa . Any specific requirements that make a student eligible for this visa and the maximum duration of allowed stay in Korea depends upon the selected course, degree, and institution.

The following table gives details that include the duration requirements needed to be known by the applicants to apply for Korean study visas:

E Series (Employment Based Visas)

Employment visas are usually long-term, meaning one can stay for more than 90 days in South Korea by accessing E-series employment-based visas.

One’s job determines the type of work permit or employment visa that one may be issued in South Korea. There are various options for long-term employment visas there, some of which have been given below: 

E-1 Professor Visa

E1 visa, which is also known as the Professor visa, is issued to senior educators, lecturers , and researchers . They need the qualifications that get them selected in Korean Universities as professors.

Not only is it a visa allotted to prestigious people with excellent academic experiences, but there are other advantages of this visa. It is a multiple-entry visa , meaning one may enter or leave Korea multiple times within its validity period.

The usual validity of this visa is for one year, but it can be renewed after one year . Also, in some cases, one may be allowed to stay as long as one needs to renew the visa every five years.

E-2 Foreign Language Instructor Visa

The E-2 Foreign Language Instructor, as the name dictates, is issued to individuals selected to teach a foreign language in either Korean schools in a company or a broadcast-owned educational facility. 

The educational institute needs to be above the elementary level. This visa is also given to the foreign language teaching assistants working at school in either of all the levels: elementary, middle, or high school. 

It is a multiple-entry visa which is valid for two years . It can be renewed after two-year intervals.

E-3 Research Visa

Human Resource Development and research are significant priorities for South Korea. So, it issues the E-3 visa to foreigners invited by public or private educational institutions to conduct research in natural sciences or progressive technology. 

Thus, people with STEM education and the proper credibility may easily qualify for this visa. The multiple-entry visa is valid for one year and can be renewed in one-year intervals. 

One may also be allowed to stay as long as one has to conduct the research. Thus, one can renew the visa after every five years.

E-4 Technological Guidance Visa

South Korea is a technologically advanced country trying to be more progressive in all spheres of education and research . Thus, the Technological Guidance visa is given to those who offer special skills that can help Korea develop even more.

The expats with skills in specific technology and natural sciences domains are invited and selected for well-paid jobs by public or private educational institutes and organizations in Korea. These top-notch individuals can get this visa. 

This visa can be multiple-entry or single-entry , depending upon the nature of the job the applicant has secured in Korea. The multiple-entry visa will be valid for one year , and the single-entry visa will be valid for three months.

E-5 Special Profession Visa

People having the following professions can be issued the E-5 visa in South Korea:

• Accountants 

These professionals must have an international license and a Korean license or official permission to practice freely in their respective fields.

It has 1-year multiple-entry validity and 3 months for single-entry visa validity. It can be renewed for the same respective duration after the visa expires. 

E-6 Culture And Art Visa

This visa is intended for foreigners who want to participate in musical , literary , or cultural activities. Some sports activities and competitions may also allocate this visa category to athletes .

It is a multiple-entry visa that is valid for one year .

E-7 Specially Designed Activities

In South Korea, the Korean Ministry of Justice organizes some activities aimed at social progressive discourses. The expats selected to participate in these activities can be given E-7 visas on arrival in Korea. 

It is also a multiple-entry visa with a 1-year validity and offers the option of a 3-month valid, single-entry visa. The duration will be decided about the nature and duration of the activities held by the Ministry of Justice in Korea.

D-5 Long-Term News Coverage

The D-5 visa is offered to journalists and reporters working for foreign media. They may be part of international broadcasts, newspapers, magazines, etc. 

This visa is a 3-month valid , single-entry visa. It can be renewed for three months after one year.

F Series (Family Visa)

The F1 – F6 visa from the F Series is allotted to people who must visit or join their family in Korea. The family should be Korean residents , spouse or child of a Korean citizen, o verseas Korean, or permanent residents in South Korea. 

The spouses need an f-3 visa and unmarried minor children of Korean citizens to stay in South Korea legally. 

G Series (Medical Visa)

The G-1 visa is given to those facing any medical issues and needing treatment for themselves or a family member. 

The medical issue might have arisen due to an industrial accident that took place under the authority of a Korean employer in Korea.

H Series (Working Holidays Visa)

South Korea has signed an agreement with some countries that allow young people to work as well as travel in South Korea for a limited period.

So, the expats who want to work and travel in Korea and belong to the countries that have signed this agreement with South Korea can be issued H1 and H2 working holiday visas.

M1 Visa (Military Visa)

Security personnel and military have a special place in every country as they protect the nation and are responsible for keeping national secrets. So, the country issues the M1 visa to specific military personnel. 

Issuing an M1 visa makes it easy for the Korean authorities to identify if the people visiting Korea might be part of the active military of another nation.

Requirements And Procedure For South Korea’s Visa

The required documents and procedures for applying for a Korean visa may differ for different visas. However, almost all visas require one to have the following:

• A completed application form for the specific visa one is applying for.
• A valid and original passport with 2 copies of it.
• Colored passport-sized, recent photographs of the applicant. 

One may also need to present additional documentation with the visa application. 

Confirmation of employment in Korea or educational and professional certificates with recommendation letters can be asked. Also, clear criminal records and paid tax records may be required in some cases.

One will also need to pay a visa application fee, which can be different for different visas. For example, for a South Korean Self-employment visa application, one must pay at least 25 USD or 33,608.88 KRW in fees. 

Means Of South Korea’s Visa Application Form

South Korea facilitates visa applicants by allowing access to online and physical means for submitting and processing visa applications. One can get the Korean visa application by: 

• Korean E-visa application portal through the Internet.
• Visiting the Visa application centers in the Korean Embassy or Korean consulates. 

After one submits the desired visa application with all the required documents through the means mentioned above, one can quickly get the confirmation or rejection of one’s visa application, too. 

One can be informed through the following means:

• Confirmation/rejection of visa issuance application via the visa portal
• Confirmation/rejection of visa issuance application via Korean immigration offices.

Usually, the whole application process differs in accordance with the type of visa one applies for. For example, there is one similar thing for all work or E-series visas.

Employment-based Korean visas can only be accessed if a Korean employer has sponsored it. One will only obtain an application if one has applied through a sponsor, a Korean employer, or a visa agency. 

Tips To Remember For Korean Visa

One should be aware of some general information before choosing which type of Korean visa one needs. 

Some of the tips to keep in mind while looking at different Korean visas have been given below:

Register With Local Authorities

If a person has opted for a long-term stay and has to stay in Korea for more than 90 days , then one immediately needs to visit the local immigration office and register with the authorities within th ree months of their stay. 

Counsel Recommendations

One should always be aware of the culture and customs of the country one is visiting, as many countries allow the entry of a foreigner on the recommendation of a council. 

Similarly, in South Korea, one can enter only after getting a valid visa if the person is allowed through the consul’s recommendation . It means that one may not be allowed to enter Korea even on a valid visa if the consul does not allow it. 

One needs to be sure about the validity of one’s visa, as staying beyond the valid time may lead to criminal proceedings. South Korean visas mostly have a validity of three months for single-entry visas and 1 year or multiple-entry visas. 

Thus, the visa applicant must renew or apply for it at least a month before the expiration date to ease getting a valid visa. Otherwise, one might face repercussions of delaying the process. 

The fee for the Korean visa application is usually paid in US Dollars or South Korean Won (KRW) . The fee may vary for different types of visas and also for different numbers of entries.  

Point-based System

One must consider the Korean immigration point-based system to attain a Korean self-employment visa. Korea also uses a point-based system for determining the eligibility of different visas. 

For example, one would need at least 380 points for a self-employment visa in Korea. The following table shows the pre-requisite points and selective points one needs for the Korean self-employment visa:

Permanent Residence

Korean Immigration Point-based systems are also critical when it comes to getting a specific long-term stay through the F-2-7 visa.

If one gains through this type of visa, then the rights an individual gets are similar to expats having permanent residence . 

However, one can only gain permanent residence status by completing all F-5 type visa form requirements.

With this comprehensive overview, navigating Korea’s visa maze just got a tad easier. Whatever your reason for venturing to the Land of the Morning Calm, ensure your visa aligns with your ambitions. Korea, in all its multifaceted glory, is ready for you.

Happy Applying!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Freelancer Visa In Korea
• Spouse Visa In Korea
• Job Seeker Visa In Korea

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Korea Visa Photo Requirements: Size and Specifications

To apply for a South Korea visa or K-ETA , travelers must provide a personal, passport-style photograph .

The image must meet all the Korean visa photo requirements for the application to be successful.

Visitors from visa-exempt countries must now have an approved Korean Electronic Travel Authorization to enter the country. Eligible passport holders can submit their application and photo online in minutes.

Korean Visa Photo Size Requirements

The image selected for the visa or visa waiver application must be the correct size. Photos that are either too large or too small will not be accepted.

The applicant’s photograph is uploaded digitally when applying for the K-ETA . This makes it easier to alter the size of the image. The K-ETA photo size limitations are:

• Less than 100 KB
• Less than 700 x 700 pixels

Traditional Korean visa applications require a photo that is 35 mm (width) by 45 mm (height).

Other ETA / Visa Photo Specifications for South Korea

Every K-ETA and Korean visa application must be accompanied by a personal photo that meets the following specifications:

The Korean ETA or visa photograph must be recent

• Taken in the last 6 months
• Reflect the traveler's current appearance

The photo must be in full color

• Black and white photographs are not accepted
• The photo should be in focus (not blurry) and without glare or shadow

Everyday clothing should be worn in the visa photo

• Military or law enforcement uniforms should not be worn in for the South Korea visa photo
• Religious uniforms and clothing are acceptable
• Hats and large accessories should not be worn
• Headwear for religious or medical reasons may be permitted (supporting documentation may be required if for medical purposes)

The eyes must be visible

• Prescription glasses are allowed as long as they do not hinder the view of the eyes
• Sunglasses or glasses with tinted lenses should not be worn
• Glare in the lens from the flash may cause rejection
• Red-eye is not acceptable. This can be avoided by not aiming the flash directly at the eye.

Facial expression must be neutral

• Applicants should not smile for the South Korean visa photo
• They should keep a neutral facial expression with the mouth closed
• It should be a front view with the subject looking straight at the camera

Korea Visa Photo Specifications for Babies and Infants

Adults who will travel to Korea with a child should be aware that there are a few extra photo requirements for young children and babies.

• Babies and infants cannot hold any objects in the photo such as toys, pacifiers, and bottles.
• The child or baby’s eyes must be open and fully visible, and the mouth must be closed.
• The top of the shoulders must be visible, and the head should fill around 70% of the photo.
• The photo can be of the child sitting, being held, or lying on the floor . However, the hands of others cannot be visible in the photo.
• The Korean visa photo size for children is the same as for adults

Visa for Korea Passport Photo Requirements

Travelers who are eligible for the K-ETA can apply for the authorization online. Passport details, personal information, and the applicant’s photo are submitted electronically . The passport number and other basic information can be quickly added to the application form.

On the other hand, to apply for a traditional visa, applicants need to scan the passport biographical page . This is the page with the passport photo and other identifying information.

South Korean visa applications are more complex and require several other supporting documents, in addition to the applicant’s photo and passport copy, depending on the purpose of the visit.

The passport details are used to carry out security checks and make South Korea a safe travel destination.

Other Things to Consider When Applying for a Korean Visa

Understanding South Korea visa photo requirements is important when applying for either a K-ETA or embassy visa. Nevertheless, there are several other things to consider, including:

• The type of visa required —the K-ETA is the correct option for visa-exempt tourists
• When to apply — most K-ETA applications are approved in 24 hours, visa applications take longer
• Other documents needed —applying for a Korean visa rather than an ETA, additional supporting documents will be required

Travelers from visa-exempt nations should be aware that the K-ETA is now mandatory. Since September 2021, visa-free entry is only permitted with a valid Korean ETA.

The permit is valid for 3 years . Travelers who visit South Korea multiple times do not need to reapply and supply a new photo before each trip. It can be used to go to South Korea for tourism, family visits, and business trips for up to 90 days.

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How to Schedule a KOREAN VISA APPLICATION Appointment (Korean Embassy Manila)

One of the countries I’ve been almost desperately wanting to return to is South Korea. So when the Korean government announced it would finally begin accepting tourist visa applications again, I was the first to book flights.

The problem is, Korea is an extremely popular destination, especially among Filipinos. While the Korean Embassy in Manila is still trying to get back to normal operations, visa applications started piling up. But that’s not all. The embassy has also posted a notice warning against submission of falsified requirements like certificates of employment, bank certificates, ITR or other documents, implying a rise in dubious documents it receives. According to travel agents we talked to, it’s because of this that the embassy became stricter and more meticulous in reviewing applications.

All these led to the Embassy limiting the number of applications it accepts per day. Walk-in applicants formed long queues as early as the night before just to make sure they make it to the cutoff. I know this because I have attempted multiple times! I fell in line for hours only to be told that they couldn’t accept my application because they had already reached the day’s quota.

Fortunately, the Korean Embassy recently launched an online appointment system! The good news is, it eliminates the need for applicants to physically spend the night lining up. The bad news is, as with any other new system, it can still be quite confusing. Thankfully, I was able to successfully reserve a slot while documenting the entire process. In this article, I’ll share with you exactly how to secure a visa application appointment with the Korean Embassy.

But first, a few reminders:

• Make sure you have the following with you: – a working e-mail address. You’ll need this to retrieve an authentication code. – your passport details, particularly your name and passport number.
• You can schedule an appointment for yourself and accompanying parents, children and spouse ONLY. Outside these conditions, applying for a group or other people isn’t allowed.
• The best time to book is the morning of the last Thursday of the month, which is usually when the embassy opens slots for the coming week. More info about that in the FAQs section below. “Usually” because this does change in some months. (Sometimes it gets moved to the Thursday before the last.) The Embassy announces on its FB page when there are changes. However, some slots do open up on other days if other applicants or the embassy itself cancels their appointment.
• Use Google Chrome. I find it to be more compatible to the website than other browsers.
• Be quick. The number of slots dwindle FAST and be all gone in a matter of minutes.
• This guide is only for individual applicants. You may apply via a travel agency but they will be following this same process.

Here’s how to get an appointment with the Korean Embassy for visa application:

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Visit the Korean Embassy’s Consular Services website.

You can find it at https://consul.mofa.go.kr/en/main.do .

Under the APPLY FOR A CONSULAR SERVICE tab, click on RESERVATION TO VISIT A DIPLOMATIC MISSION . It’s the first button under this tab.

2. Fill out the non-membership log-in form.

On the next page, a pop up will appear: Please log in as a non-member to access this service. Click OK. Then, follow these steps.

• On the log-in form, click on the CONSENT TO ALL TERMS & CONDITIONS OF USE button. It will display the terms. Read and scroll down, and then click CONFIRM .
• Enter your name as indicated on the passport that you will use.
• Enter your email address.
• Click SEND AUTHENTICATION NUMBER. The system will send a code to the email address you just entered. It usually takes a minute or so, but at peak times, it can take as long as 30 minutes.
• Enter the authentication number you received and click VERIFY .
• Under contact information, enter your phone or mobile number.
• Click NON-MEMBERSHIP LOG IN .

3. Choose the embassy and service type.

Before you reach this type, you might be redirected first to a virtual “waiting room”, depending on how heavy the visitor traffic is at the time. The page will show you how much time (in seconds) you need to wait before it takes you to the reservation page.

Once on the Reservation page, choose the following:

• Under SELECT A DIPLOMATIC MISSION, choose EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA TO THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES. This is the Korean Embassy in Manila. (It’s toward the bottom of the list.) Note that there are two Philippine missions on the list. The other is the Consulate General in Cebu. Make sure you pick the right one.
• Under SELECT A CONSULAR SERVICE, choose VISA (INDIVIDUAL APPLICANTS FOR TOURISM). And then, under it, tick the box next to VISA (INDIVIDUAL APPLICANTS FOR TOURISM). It’s the only selectable box.

4. Select an appointment date.

You’ll see that not all dates are clickable. The grayed out dates cannot be chosen. Pick a date.

After you pick a date, click the radio button beside the time that applies to you. These are the time allocations:

• 08:30 – Visa Issuance Number holders only
• 09:00 – Koreans’ Filipino Family Visit (F6-1, C3-1, F1-5, F2-2)
• 09:30 – Individual Applicants for Tourism (C-3-9)
• 10:00 – Business (C3-1, C3-4, C4-5)
• 10:30 – Official Conference, Study and others (C3-1, C4-5, D2, D4, A1, A2, etc)

Even if there’s only one option, don’t forget to still tick the radio button. You won’t be able to move on to the next step otherwise.

If all dates are grayed out and not clickable, it means there are no more available slots at the time. You can wait and keep on refreshing.

NOTE: The Embassy usually opens slots for the coming weeks on the last THURSDAY of the month. That’s the best time to try to get an appointment. In some months, it gets moved to the second-to-the-last Thursday of the month. The Embassy usually announces changes like this on its Facebook page. However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a slot any other day. Sometimes, the Embassy or the applicant themselves cancel their appointment, putting refreshed slots up for grabs.

5. Check reservation details and type your passport number.

‼️ Under NOTES, enter your passport number! If you’re also applying for your parents/children/spouse under this appointment, you should enter all your full names and corresponding passport numbers.

If you don’t fill in the SPECIFIC REQUESTS field, the Embassy will automatically cancel your appointment and you’ll have to find a new slot. I learned this the hard way, so don’t make the same mistake.

Once everything is in order, type in the CAPTCHA code and click MAKE RESERVATION .

A note will pop up. Check if all the details are correct. You won’t be able to modify it afterwards. If you need to change something, you’ll have to cancel and make another reservation. If everything is correct, click OK.

6. Print out your Reservation Confirmation.

You’ll be taken back to the RESERVATION page, which will now display your scheduled appointment. On the far right, under RESERVATION RECEIPT, click PRINT.

It looks like this:

‼️ IMPORTANT! Do not forget to print or save a copy of this receipt. They will check it when you visit the Embassy on your appointment date. Without it, you’ll be denied entry to the premises.

You’ll also receive a confirmation via email.

7. Show up at the Embassy on scheduled appointment date and time.

Bring the following:

• a printed or soft copy of your Reservation Confirmation
• Completed visa application form
• Passport and identification card
• All the other required documents

‼️ IMPORTANT! Only the visa applicants themselves whose names and passport numbers are indicated on the Reservation Receipt will be allowed to enter the Embassy. If you’re caught applying for someone other than yourself, your parents, your children or your spouse, you will be blacklisted by the Embassy.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I didn’t make an appointment. can i still make a walk-in visit to the embassy.

NO. Walk-in applicants are no longer accepted, regardless of the visa type you’re applying for.

An appointment is required to be allowed entry.

Can I make an appointment for my spouse (husband/wife)?

YES. On October 4, the Korean Embassy published an update announcing that spouses may now be included in group appointments. So now, you can schedule an appointment for yourself, your parents, your children, or your spouse.

Previously, it was not allowed. According to the Embassy’s FB page before, husbands and wives must make a separate appointment.

But the rule has since been changed.

Can I make an appointment for my siblings (brother/sister)?

NO. You may only apply for yourself, your parents, your children, or your spouse.

Siblings are not included in any of the Embassy’s comms, even though they are immediate relatives, too.

The Embassy adds: “Your appointments for your cousins, nephews, nieces and other relatives will be cancelled by the Embassy.”

Can I make an appointment for my friends who will be my travel companions to Korea?

NO, they must secure an appointment slot on their own even though you will be traveling together.

Each applicant can book only for himself alone or for a parent, child, or spouse. If your companion isn’t a parent, spouse or a child, they need to secure a separate appointment.

Can I make multiple appointments under my name?

NO. Only appointments for yourself, spouse, parent or child will be accepted. All of your appointments will be cancelled by the Embassy.

If you’re caught making two or more appointments under one name, you and all the other applicants associated with you will be blacklisted by the Embassy.

When is the best time to book an appointment?

The Embassy only opens slots for the coming two week every other THURSDAY. This is the best time to try to get an appointment. In some months, when the last Thursday falls towards the very end of the month, the opening gets moved to the second-to-the-last Thursday of the month. The Embassy usually announces changes like this on its Facebook page.

Here’s the schedule for the next few months.

For June 2023, it is scheduled on JUNE 22 (the second to the last Thursday), NOT JUNE 29.

However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a slot any other day. Sometimes, the Embassy or the applicants themselves cancel their appointment, putting refreshed slots up for grabs.

I keep on getting this error: 시스템에 일시적으로 장애가 발생했습니다. 잠시 후 다시 시도하여 주십시오. What does it mean?

It reads: The system has temporarily failed. Please try again later.

You may just refresh the page because it would keep on giving this error no matter what you click.

Updates Log

2023/4/27 – Reflected 2023 Q2 schedule updates 2023/1/26 – Reflected 2023 Q1 schedule updates 2022/10/11 – Reflected the October 4 update that includes spouse in application appointment. 2022/9/29 – First up Published: 2022 • 09 • 21

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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hi, i was able to booked an appointment but i was super “taranta” so i just put my name and passport no. and forgot to put that of my family. when i checked my reservation i was able to edit and put my parents name. question is, do you have an idea if they will accept this or will they forfeit my reservation? thank you

Hi Shelley! I can’t be sure because I haven’t experienced something like this. But I think it’s OK as long as you print the reservation receipt again and their names should be on it.

In my case, when I failed to enter the right details, I was informed the next day that my reservation was cancelled. If you don’t receive any notification that yours has been cancelled, then I think you should be fine. But again, this is just my guess.

How about cebu? Pwde pa ba mag walk in dun?

Im trying to book an appointment for me, my husband, daughter and son…when i was filling up the special request to put all our full name and passport it doesnt fit since only max 100 characters are allowed. Do u think its ok if i just put all our first name without last name then passport number?TIA

Hi, when you applied for your family do they need to be with you sa embassy on the date of the appointment? TIA

May i know if naging ok?

Yes..inaaccept nila ung first name wala na tanong tanong…

Hi, any update on this? did they get your application even first name lang nakareserve? thanks

Hi, so far d naman rejected yung appointment namin.will come to know on 14th only when we go there.i got hard time kasi booking an appointment palaging puno slot.

Hi Sheene, not sure, but I would probably do the same since there isn’t much choice.

Thank you!!!

Hello po. I’m just wondering if applicable pa ba yung BDO/BPI credit card promo when applying for Korean tourist visa? Sabi kasi if mayron nun onte nalang requirements isusubmit? Then the cc site says promo is valid until end of this year.

Hi Cher. Naku, di ko po sure if ongoing pa ung promo now.

Hi, Do they require booked itineraries already once you apply for a visa?

Hindi naman po.

Hello, anytime po ba mag l-login same process po sa number 1 and 2?

Hello, kapag inaapply ko rin ang spouse ko and children need pa ba sila isama sa appointment? Or pwedeng ako nalang pupunta? Nakakuha kasi ako ng slot may pasok ang mga Bata.

Same question here, i tried to search pero wala ako mahanap if ok lang na d na sila kasama.

Can I reschedule my appointment po or hindi?

Ang alam ko po ay hindi.

Hello, can we include grandchild sa special request since minor namn sya, student and i am sponsoring his trip o talagang separate application din sya? TIA

Hi. In the Non-membership log-in, it says there to put name as seen in passport. May I ask if I should include the middle name? Is there a required format ? (surname first then first name or first name, middle name, surname?)

I have 3 previous SK visas but this is the first time that I’m doing the online appointment. Thank you for any input.

Hello! When entering your name as shown in passport, is it in the order of A. [FIRST NAME] [MIDDLE NAME] [LAST NAME] B. [LAST NAME], [FIRST NAME], [MIDDLE NAME] C. [FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME] D. [LAST NAME], [FIRST NAME]

Hope you can help!

I got an appointment last Nov.18 . i suppose to apply just tourist visa. Before i applied business visa 3months With invitation of korean company.

When i’m in the embassy guard instruct me at window 3 i submit all my documents w/o invitation and the person assist me ask the invitation letter if you cant provide it will more chance of deny application.

Next week will arrive my invitation , it is possible to re~consider my appointment last Nov. 18 to re~submit application once my invitation arrive?

Can i represent my daughter at the embassy to submit her application because she must not absent in the school since she is academic scholar.

Hindi po ba instant ung pagkaka-received ng authentication code sa email? im currently applying now, pero hindi pa rin ako nakaka-received ng authentication code.

Sa case ko po, if I remember correctly, a few minutes lang dumating na. Pero sa teammates ko, mas matagal, umabot 20 minutes yata yun. Dun sa isa naman, hindi dumating yung code at all kasi dami nag-aapply at the same time.

[surname, given name middle name] po ba ung format sa online appointment?

Hello po! Thank you for this detailed post. Mas malaki po ba ang chance na ma-approve ang Korean visa if ikaw mismo ang magsusubmit sa Korean Embassy ng requirements as compared to seeking assistance from an accredited agency? Thank you po!

Hi Cza, I don’t think it matters. But ang OK lang when coursing it through a travel agency is you have an extra layer of checks, so if mayroong makita ang agency na kaya mo pang idagdag or alisin to improve your chances, lalo if complicated yung case, they can give advice. But the submission method per se doesn’t have weight, I think.

I tried awhile ago to inquire in an accredited agency. Wala na daw silang slot for visa assistance. A few minutes later, they offered a travel package which includes visa application assistance. I prefer DIY travel ksi. Assistance on visa application lng need ko kasi I’m from South Cotabato.

Hello! Do you have any idea of the time frame for the approval? Back in 2019, it took 30-45 days before you can find out if you got approved or not.

If I applied for my parents and child, do I need to bring them along for the consul appointment or it’s okay showing just by myself?

Hi, Can i ask someone to collect the my passport on my behalf ..ano po yung mga requirements? Individual application not through agency thank you po

How can i book an appointment here in korea embassy in the philippines

Hi! 1st time traveller with my husband pero si husband sa ibang country mag mumula at mag pprocess ng korean pwede. Ano po kaya mga dapat na requirements ko na dala?

Hi! For Nonmembership log in, it says Enter name as shown in passport, is it Surname, Given name or Given name Surname?

Hoping for a replyyy. Thank you!!!

Please indicate your surname, then given name. Kumbaga how Koreans write their name, too. Surname muna.

Hi Yosh. I tried the online scheduling today. But is it normal that i tried several times but its always error. I tried twice and got authentication number sent to my email but everytime I entered it for verification. It always Error. Try again later. Then it will return to WAITINGROOM again which will take 30mins more… How can i really get an appointment if this website always like this?

Hello. They said that travel agencies can no longer process Korean visa,is this true?

The travel agency accreditation system has been abolished, so there are no more “designated travel agencies”. You may still apply via any travel agency but they will have to go through the same process as anyone else, in terms of securing an appointment. :)

If i was able to logged in as non member but have not booked an appointment, is it ok to log in multiple times?

Yep, you can log in naman multiple times.

Hi, how fast do slots for appointment reservation close? I’m supposed to travel first week of May and have yet to secure an appointment slot.

Based on experience, when slots open, they are gone in minutes.

Hi! Renewing my Korean visa which expired in 2020. Can I include my 9 year old grandson’s visa application in my appointment schedule? His single mom is currently studying/working abroad. I have his mom’s notarized Affidavit of support and consent. I want to bring him to Korea for a short vacay.

Hi, I missed answer two questions on Visa App: #8.8 (relatives in Korea) and #11 (assistance w form) and I may hv made mistake in Purpose of trip. Encoding Tourism, while my purpose is Business. Do I need to change the application form? My supposed trip is on Mar 06 2023. What your experience for this kind of tight schedule? Thank You

Hello po . Pag nakabook po ba appointment for visa, may interview po ba or submission lang ng requirements ang gagawin po?

Naka reserved ako ng appointment and unfortunately hindi ko nailagay yung Passport Number ko sa notes sa sobrang taranta, pwede pa ba tong ma update? or ano kaya pwede ko gawin? Should I email them?

Hello, i tried to book for an appointment. i clicked the make reservation na ang clicked ok. wala pa rin siyang lumalabas. And nagkamali ako, naclick ko yung check reservation. tapos bumalik siya sa waiting room. May idea ka po anong meaning nun? hindi po ba yun na get thru? :(

what’s the diff between membership and non-membership login?

Membership: you can log in when you need/want to. Its advantage is that it’s more efficient than the non-membership login. Non-membership: less efficient since you have to wait for the OTP to arrive at your email pa. From what I hear, matagal siya dumating sa email address mo on days that the reservation slots are opened.

I would recommend that you make an account (membership) prior the appointment slot para mas mabilis ka na makakuha ng slot. Hope this helps!

I was able to get an appointment slot, though I don’t want to take a leave on the appointment day due to work. Pwede ba ipalakad yung documents ko sa travel agency?

Di ko po sure ah, pero I think dapat ikaw. Kasi if ipapalakad sa agency, you should’ve chosen Travel Agency dun sa options po.

options po saan?

Naku, March pa po itong reply ko sa kanya. Baka iba na po ngayon.

Hi Yosh! Thanks for replying to my concern. So in my last application, pinalakad ko siya sa travel agency. Pwede naman pala :) My application was also approved.

Hello pag na blacklisted ba sa online appointment may iba pang way para makapag appointment ng visa?

Hi, thank you so much for this very informative content ☺️ may I ask how much is the visa fee? Thank you again ☺️

It’s FREE of charge.

About PSA Birth certificate and marriage certificate okay lang ba na almost 2 yrs ago na kinuha sa PSA, will they still accept as long as galing sa PSA?

Just make sure that it’s still the original copy, and updated ang details.

Are covering letters required or optional?

Cover letter for visa application? Optional.

Hello! I still have a valid visa but will be the one applying sana for my senior father & minor daughter. Do you know if thats possible? TIA and Thank you for the very informative post.

Hi Justine! I’m not sure if it’s possible, but I *think* it is allowed.

Hello, when claiming the Korean Visa in the embassy, do we need to print anything again? And how would we know if our visa already okay for pick-up? Thank you.

Hello po! Mag a-apply palang po kaming passport this Apr. 17 then sa Apr. 27 po open ng slots ng Embassy. Pede po kaya mag sign up na kahit wala pa po passport on hand?

**Additional: May format/ template po ba ang letter of invitation for Korean visa?

Ask ko lang po kujng pano po kapag mag aapointment sana ng date para makpunta sa Embassy para malaman or macheck po kung wala po kami sa list ng BAN For re entry sa korea.. Dto din po ba mag appointment?

Hi,ok lang po ba na ibang email address ang gamitin sa pagkuha ng visa appointment slot? Nag pa book kc ako ng appointment online then email ng setter ang nakalagay pero name ko naman ang nakalagay sa reservation hindi po ba yun magkaka problema?explain ni setter email nya ang nilagay nya to get the authentication code at maka pag pa reserve ng slot.wala daw po yun magiging problema…any adia po?tsaka tanong ko na din po pwede ba include ang name ng mga makakasama ko sa tour like spouse and children with their passport numbers bali 1 family kami 3pax?or need ko sila kuhanan ng separate appointment?pls enlighten me po tsaka pwede ba hindi na isama ang spouse and child kc may work at nag aaral anak ko. ako nalang pupunta sa mismong appointment schedule?thanks po

hello, may nabago po ba dito? pwede po ba walk-in? thank you

Hindi pa po pwede walk in. Need pa rin po ng appointment

Hi po.. when booking an appointment ano po difference between Individual application for Tourism 1 , 2 and 3? thanks po

No difference naman between the three. They just have more slots na ngayon probably due to the demand. :)

Hi! Question, how many days usually ang visa approval? Thanks!

Hi! In my experience, usually a week after mo malalaman if you’ve been approved or not.

For Korean visa, can I make one appointment slot together with 2 adult single children? thank you

Hi may I ask if pinayagan po?

what are the documents needed for my nephew? he’s still a minor (13y/o)? gusto namin siyang isama. pwede bang ikuha ng appointment siyang mag isa?

Applicable pa po ba ang travel agency visa application?

Thank you po sa mga sasagot

Hi Maureen, pwede pa rin yata but need yata nilang dumaan sa same process as normal applicants. To be honest, sa sobrang daming beses nagbago, kahit ako naguguluhan na.

Hi! I’ve been traveling this summer and am not in my home country (USA) but I will be studying abroad in Korea this fall. Therefore, I need a student visa. However, in Japan, I checked the online embassy calendar for visa appointment and it’s full for all of July. I was debating on whether just going to the Korean embassy in August before school starts and getting a visa there. But I was wondering how long it takes for the visa to come… Also I think I would have to reserve a visa appointment at the Korea embassy and not be able to walk up. Is there an online visa application form because I cannot find it.

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Common Reasons For South Korea Visa Rejection and What You Can Do About It

One of the cons of having a Philippine Passport is applying for visas. In our application, we may get approved or denied. If you are looking forward to visiting the land of KPop and KDramas, you should read this article to help you avoid getting rejected. Here are Common Reasons For South Korea Visa Rejection .

With the rise of our love for KDramas like the super kilig Crash Landing on You to the heartwarming Reply 1988, South Korea is almost in everyone’s bucket list. I got to enter South Korea Visa Free last January 2020 and visited Seoul . But, if you aren’t eligible to be visa-free, apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa . If you don’t want to be rejected, know your enemies to avoid them.

• How to Apply For A South Korea Tourist Visa with Your Philippines Passport
• 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting South Korea [Do’s and Dont’s]
• 3 Day Seoul DIY Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea
• Love Locks in South Korea: Where to Find LoveLocks in Seoul?
• Underrated Korean Drama Series on Netflix You Should Watch Now

Unlike other visa applications, the South Korean Embassy checks the reason why your visa may be denied. However, some may be a bit vague. So check out the common reasons:

Table of Contents

Failure to Submit Complete Required Documents

If you are applying for a South Korea Visa, it’s better to triple check the documents you have submitted. You can also photocopy or take a picture of them to ensure everything has been passed. Check out some few notes below:

• Application Form – check if it’s answered correctly and with your signature. It’s better if this is computerized as it would be neater.
• Photo – the photo should be the correct size and attached to the form
• Passport Bio-page – the passport is not enough, you’ll need to pass also a copy of your bio-page or else you’ll get rejected since it’s incomplete
• Original Bank Certificate – with account type, current balance, opening date, and the average daily balance must be included. You could be denied if one is missing
• Original Bank Statement – for the last three months. Please note that you pass both a bank certificate and bank statement, not one. It’s also better if they are the same account from the same bank—incomplete submission results to denied a visa.
• If you are an Employee – Pass a Certificate of Employment – it must be original with the applicant’s name, position, hired date, compensation, office address, and landline number of your HR. It states that a landline number should be used rather than a cellphone number. This is most probably for verification purposes as it’s easier to contact and confirm through landline than cellphones as people can pretend to be HR.
• For Business Owners – Pass a Business Registration from SEC or DTI or Business permits – should you state in your application that you have a business but not present this document, then you can be denied. If you don’t have one because you have an online business, make a cover letter explaining your current situation
• In case you are a student – Pass a School Certificate – it needs to be an original certificate or letter from the school . Submit also a copy of your school ID, if you have it.
• Income Tax Return – this is a requirement for employees and business owners. In Cebu, a “Received” stamp from the BIR is necessary. Should you have no ITR, ensure to have a cover letter as to why you don’t have one
• Invitation Letter – should someone in South Korea invite you and you state it in your application, an invitation letter is needed.
• Guarantee Letter – if you are not the one covering the whole amount of your travel expense to Korea, also submit a Guarantee Letter. Don’t forget to provide their bank certificate and bank statement, too. If not, your application may be incomplete.

Failure to Qualify to the Visa Category they Applied For

This is one of the common reasons for the South Korea Visa Rejection of Filipinos. That’s why I advise you to take pictures of what you submitted, especially your form as you might have blanks or mistakes, you can look back.

• There are many types of Visa Categories; the most common is C for Short Term Visits.
• Make sure to check “Tourism” under Details of Visit
• Should your stay be under a person who is your relative but you checked “Tourism” instead Visiting Family/Relatives/Friends it may a reason your visa got denied
• If you are also applying for a tourist for more than 59 days, but you have a relative working and living in South Korea, you may be rejected as the Embassy might conclude that you are not there for tourism rather than visitation or job hunting
• You can also check your financial capacity if your money is enough. As per travel agents, you’ll need at least USD 100 per person per day for your trip plus extra for flights
• Having a good travel history is a plus

Failure to Prove Purpose of Entry to Korea

Most Filipinos also get denied because of this reason. It’s pretty vague. But here are some pointers that could help you:

• If your purpose of entry is tourism – make sure you have enough funds and that you are staying at a place near tourist spots. If you are staying not at a hotel and the address is residential and not that touristy, the Embassy might think you are staying with a friend and will look for a job rather than tourist spots
• Make a cover letter explaining that you want to travel South Korea as a tourist attaching your flight reservations or bookings, hotel bookings, attraction tickets or tours availed

Failure to prove strong economic and family ties to the home country

The South Korean Embassy doesn’t want you to stay in SK illegally, if they think you will, then you might get rejected. This is one of the common reasons for South Korea Visa Rejection, especially if you have no current job. It’ll be a good motive to find work there. You can prove your deep ties to your country by providing your Kid’s Birth Certificate, Land Titles, Investments. You can check our article on Ways to Prove Deep Ties in your country .

Other Reasons for South Korea Visa Rejection

Invalid Passport

As always, a valid passport is needed when you apply for a visa to almost all countries. For South Korea, you’ll need to have one that is valid for more than 6 months. If it’s already expiring, make an appointment with the Department of Foreign Affairs for passport renewals. Read our article on How to Apply for a Philippine Passport in DFA .

Prohibited in Entering Korea as Per Korean Immigration Law No. 11 sec. 1 (Prohibition of Entry)

This is not one of the common reasons for South Korea Rejection, but for your information, here is what’s under Korean Immigration Law :

“(1) The Minister of Justice may prohibit the entry of a foreigner who falls under any of the following subparagraphs:

1. Persons carrying an epidemic disease, narcotic addicts or other persons deemed likely to cause danger and harm to the public health;

2. Persons who intend to enter the Republic of Korea unlawfully carrying firearms and guns, swords, explosives, etc. as prescribed by the Control of Firearms, Swords, Explosives, etc. Act;

3. Persons deemed highly likely to commit any act detrimental to the interest of the Republic of Korea or public safety;

4. Persons deemed highly likely to commit any act detrimental to the economic or social order or good morals;

5. Mentally handicapped persons who are void of a capacity of discriminating sense and have no person to assist their sojourn activities in the Republic of Korea, a person who is void of bearing the sojourn expenses in the Republic of Korea, and other persons in need of relief;

6. Persons for whom five years have not elapsed after departure from the Republic of Korea under a deportation order;

7. Persons who have taken part in the slaughter or cruel treatment of people on the grounds of race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, political opinion, etc. under instructions from or in liaison with the Japanese government, any government which was in alliance with the Japanese government, or any government on which the Japanese government exercised predominant influence from August 29, 1910, until August 15, 1945; and

8. Persons who correspond to any of subparagraphs 1 through 7 and who are deemed by the Minister of Justice as persons whose entries are improper.”

Violation of Korean Law

Unless you have been to South Korea, if you have violated the law there, you may get denied to get another South Korean Visa. Examples are working on a tourist visa, overstaying in South Korea, or causing trouble. Bawal Pasaway!

Documents Can’t Be Verified

If the Embassy decides to contact your HR office, School, Bank, or Hotel, your application may be rejected. Please make sure that you have written the correct number in the application form. Double-check also that there are numbers, too.

Inviter is Not Qualified to Invite You

In case you are invited by a friend or relative in South Korea, they should be qualified to invite you. They must have proper jobs, legal documents, and identification. You can pass their passport, contracts, or certification from a South Korean Company.

Failure to Prove Relationship with your Inviter

Your relationship must also be strong or proven. It’s a red flag if some person you have known online (and not yet met) or met only for a few months to invite you – you might get trafficked. It’s better if you have known each other for more than 3 years. Prove it with birth certificates or marriage contracts, conversations in Apps or Facebook, or pictures.

Failure to give a prima facie evidence of your marriage validity

The marriage contract you have passed must be legal and, if possible, issued by the PSA. You must also plan to have a family together. There are some cases where people get married to get a visa or citizenship.

Failure to give the correct information about your spouse

The documents you have submitted (Marriage Certificate, Employment Contract, etc.) must be the same as the one in the application form.

Failure to prove to keep a normal marital life

Should your marriage be because of money or visa grants, then you may be denied getting a visa.

Those are the common and not so common reasons for South Korea Visa Rejection . The Embassy in Manila doesn’t accept appeals, unlike the Cebu Consul. Make sure to have a letter addressed to the Consul, and you are sure the reason for denial is not valid. Feel free to attach supporting documents too. If not, you can try again after 6 months. Make sure your documents are complete, verifiable, and authentic. Triple check them and don’t forget to pray. Good luck!

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13 thoughts on “ Common Reasons For South Korea Visa Rejection and What You Can Do About It ”

I am registered for the “WMGA2023” World Masters Games in Jeonju, South Korea, 05-12-2023 thru 05-20-2023, how do I identify this on the VISA application??

Do I include travel times: Arrival and departures??

what will I do next after receiving rejection for Korean visa application code 7?

Hi. My brother in law got denied with reason 7&11. He is in the autism spectrum and his parents will shoulder his trip. His parents got multiple entry. Does having autism permanently prohibit you from entering Korea?

HI I just wanted to ask, I am from philippines and Im applying for Korean visa. Is it okay if I use my sister as my sponsor but she will provide me documents that are from canada since she is canadian? Can you give me any tips

read this article: How to Apply for A Tourist Visa if You Are Unemployed or Not Working

I applied for a Korean Language course in Fall 2022. I was denied and the Reason for denial is: 11. Others.

Does anyone know what this means?

I applied for a Korean Language course in Spring 2022. I was denied and the Reason for denial is:

purpose of entry has not been explained in detail

Hello, I tried applying and i was given this reason for denial.

“11. Other. : Corresponds to a hierarchical exerciser in accordance with the disposition standards for violators of visa business (Ministry of Justice Residency Management Division-8190, 19.12.3)”

Does this mean one has been banned from applying for Visa?

The visa was denied The reasons for denial are That my purpose of entry has not been explained in detail Secondly that my current status (family and economic conditions) does not prove my return within the given period of stay Please sir, I need advice or clarification on Korean visa application Last year I used an account of someone but this time around I want to use another different sponsor’s account So please I am asking if using a different sponsors account this time will have a problem. Please I need a professional advice on this sir.

They have checked your application and maybe due to different sponsors they are thinking that you won’t travel for the purpose stated in your application but will stay in SK and work.

Please my visa was denied December 6 ,2021 during omicron and Nigeria was red flagged and it stated my purpose of entry was not explained in details ,I want to apply again for ,c34 visa for business transactions what will I do now, I need advice please

If I just got married recently with a Korean here in the Philippines, is it valid already to apply for a visa a spouse of a Korean? And would I still need to submit Bank statement and certificate even if my husband would cover all the expenses? I’m worried because I don’t have a bank account.

Same problem either, someone wants to cover my expenses do i need still to comply my bank statements and accounts?

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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South Korea: Visa Application To Travel Checklist- An Indian Traveller's Guide To Explore This Country

South korea is rich in diversity- from seoul's skyscrapers to gyeongbokgung palace, there are a lot you can visit. have a look at the visa procedure and application process for indian travellers..

South Korea, in the past decade, has become a hotspot for Indian tourists, thanks to K-dramas and Korean music capturing the hearts of many. More and more folks are choosing to go to South Korea instead of other main foreign destinations, attracted by its lively culture and modern charm. This place is a dream destination offering a whole bunch of experiences, stunning landscapes, and an incredible journey through culture and history. Apart from its beautiful national parks, majestic mountains, and cozy villages, there's something special about sleeping in traditional wooden houses and visiting rice paddies as guests of the locals.

If you are also eager to visit South Korea and do not know from where to start, don't worry – we've got you covered.

Know How To Apply For A South Korean Tourist Visa:

If you're planning a trip to South Korea during the upcoming vacation season, your first step should be to apply for a visa to enter the country. South Korea offers different categories of visas based on the purpose of travel, including short-term visits, medical treatment, study, professional work, and more. For leisure purposes, Indians can apply for the 'Ordinary Tourist Visa' category. To apply, you need to fill out the Visa Application Form (Form No. 17) and attach necessary documents such as ID proof and financial statements. For e-visa applications you need to submit: 

• Scanned image files of passport pages, valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages for stamps
• Digital photograph (size 3.5cm x 4.5cm, front view, taken within the last 6 months)
• Visa application e-form through the Visa portal 
• Documents for the status of stay

The processing time varies depending on the Embassy or Consulate, but it's advisable to submit a completed application at least 15 days before travel, but no earlier than three months.

If you need to stay longer than your visa allows, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in South Korea, ideally four months before your current visa expires.

ALSO READ: The Unheard Echos Of Mt Everest: Litter, Garbage And Dead Bodies- Nepal Army Aims To Clean Up

South Korea’s New ‘Workcation Visa’:

South Korea has introduced a new 'workcation' visa from January 1, 2024, with the aim of attracting digital nomads and boosting tourism. This visa allows foreign workers and their families to stay in the country for up to two years, which is a big change from the previous visa policies. Earlier, foreigners could only get tourist visas or stay for less than 90 days.

To qualify for the workcation visa, applicants must work for a foreign company and have at least one year of experience in the same industry. They also need to have an annual salary of 84.96 million Won (approximately Rs. 52,07,728.75) and personal health insurance coverage of at least 100 million Won (about Rs. 61,45,119.92).

Travel Logistics:

South Korea is a year-round destination, so there isn't any particular 'best time' to visit. However, spring offers pleasant weather with minimal fluctuations, making it the most popular tourist season. Additionally, you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom during this time.

Winter in South Korea falls between December and March and can be quite chilly. If you enjoy snow adventure activities and prefer fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations, then winter is the ideal time for your travels.

For reaching the island nation, air travel is the most common option. Direct and layover flights are available from major Indian cities to Incheon International Airport in Seoul. Flight durations vary from 10 to 15 hours depending on layovers. Flight costs can range from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 or more for round-trip tickets, depending on factors like airline, booking time, and travel dates.

If you're looking for a leisure trip on a cruise, you'll need to travel to China, Singapore, or Australia first, as there are no direct cruises from India to South Korea. This journey can take up to 2 weeks and cost up to lakhs.

Within the country, the public transport system is efficient and covers most areas. For affordable options, choose buses, subways, and trains, although taxis are also available but tend to be more expensive.

South Korea offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels in major cities to guesthouses and hostels catering to budget travellers, there's something for everyone. Booking websites and apps provide convenient ways to find and reserve accommodation according to your needs.

Also, it's advisable to exchange currency at banks or authorised exchange counters for the best rates and avoid unlicensed currency exchangers. The currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). As of now, 1 Indian Rupee is approximately equal to 16 South Korean Won. Major credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in rural areas.

Korean is the official language of the island nation, but you'll also encounter people who speak English and Japanese. However, knowing a few Korean phrases can make your trip smoother. For example, 'Annyeonghaseyo' means hello, and 'gamsahabnida' means thank you. You're likely learn more Korean as you go, but having these basics can be helpful along the way.

What To Explore:

The south-east nation offers its visitors a diverse range of experiences- from stunning landscapes to rich cultural and historical journeys. In cities like Seoul and Busan, modern skyscrapers dominate the skyline, while UNESCO Heritage Sites like The Hahoe Folk Village showcase traditional Korean culture.

You can begin your exploration in Seoul, the bustling capital where ancient palaces blend with modern architecture and then go on to visit the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace. In addition, the trendy Gangnam is also a place worth visiting. For those who love to explore local cuisine and street food, you can do so at Gwangjang Market.

Jeju, known as the 'Island of the Gods,' offers volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches, while Hallasan National Park and Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak offer breathtaking views.

In Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, you can explore maritime history and scenic coastlines, discover the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, relax at Haeundae Beach and hike to historic sites like Beomeosa Temple and Taejongdae Park for panoramic vistas.

An interesting thing awaits in Gyeongju, known as the 'Museum Without Walls,' where UNESCO-listed sites like Bulguksa Temple and Yangdong Village offer insight into Korea's ancient kingdom of Silla.

You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of traditional Korean customs at the Korean Folk Village as it offers an authentic glimpse into the country's cultural heritage.

Commonly referred to as the 'Land of the Morning Calm,' South Korea offers a captivating journey through time and culture. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, there's something for every adventurer to explore in this captivating country.

ALSO READ: Travel Sri Lanka: A Guide To Visas, Logistics And Must-Visits

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Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines

• Ambassador’s Greetings
• Location/Contact
• Visa Announcement
• Visa Requirements
• Korean Spouse Visa
• Authentication
• Embassy News
• Culture & Events
• About Korea

• Consular/Visa Service

• 게시판 검색 title content Search

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