South Korea Visa: Policy, Application, Requirements & Types

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Key Takeaways:

South Korea requires visas for many, but EU, Canada, Australia, and the USA enjoy visa-free access for short stays.
Canada gets longest visa exemption of up to 180 days; others like EU countries and the USA have 90 days.
Visitors under visa-waiver can’t work; overstay requires applying for a specific visa before traveling to South Korea.

Dreaming of wandering through the bustling streets of Seoul, exploring ancient temples, or hiking in South Korea’s stunning countryside? Planning your South Korean adventure begins with understanding its visa policies. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, cutting-edge technology, or vibrant culture, figuring out the travel requirements is a crucial first step for a hassle-free journey.

Navigating through the visa application process may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you might think. South Korea offers various visa exemptions and types depending on your country of origin and the purpose of your visit. For many travelers from countries like the USA, Canada, and member states of the EU, getting into South Korea might just be a flight away, with no visa required for short stays. However, for longer visits or specific purposes, understanding the specifics of the required documentation is key. Keep reading to find out if you need a visa for South Korea and how you can apply for one if necessary.

South Korea Visa: Overview and Policy

South Korea, known for its blend of modern cities like Seoul and traditional temples amidst picturesque countrysides, is a popular destination for tourists. Understanding the visa policy of South Korea is essential for planning your visit.

Do You Need a Visa for South Korea?

South Korea Visa: Policy, Application, Requirements & Types

Whether you need a visa to visit South Korea depends on your nationality. South Korea has agreements that allow citizens from certain countries to enter without a visa for short stays. Here’s what you need to know:

Visa-Free Entry:

Citizens from countries such as the EU member states, Canada, Australia, and the United States can enter South Korea without a visa for short-term visits.
Those entering under the visa-waiver agreement are prohibited from working or participating in any paid activities during their stay.

Visa Required:

If your country is not on the visa-free list, you will need to apply for a visa.
Additionally, if you intend to stay longer than the period allowed under the visa exemption, you must apply for the appropriate South Korea visa before traveling.

This policy ensures controlled and lawful entry into the country, enhancing security and cultural exchange.

Citizens planning a trip to South Korea should check their visa requirements well in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience. If you are unsure about the visa policies, it’s advisable to consult the official South Korean embassy website or contact their consular services.

Check Our Guide to complete list of 148 countries South Koreans can visit Visa-free

South Korea Visa Exemptions

Visa Exemption for Up to 180 Days

Canada: Citizens of Canada are permitted to enter South Korea for stays up to 180 days without needing a visa.

Visa Exemption for Up to 90 Days

Citizens from the countries listed below can visit South Korea without a visa for stays of up to 90 days:

European Union (EU): All member countries except Cyprus
Caribbean and Latin America:
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Barbados
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
Grenada
Guatemala
Haiti
Panama
Peru
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Suriname
Trinidad and Tobago
Uruguay
Venezuela
North America:
United States
Mexico
Asia:
Hong Kong
Israel
Japan
Kuwait
Macau
Malaysia
Singapore
Taiwan
Thailand
United Arab Emirates
Australia and Oceania:
Australia
New Zealand
Europe:
Iceland
Liechtenstein
Norway
Serbia
Switzerland
Turkey
Africa:
Morocco

South Korea offers these visa exemptions to simplify travel for international visitors, enhancing cultural and economic exchanges. This policy enables travelers from these nations to explore South Korea with ease, boosting tourism and business interactions in the region.

South Korea Visa Exemption Policies

South Korea offers visa exemptions to travelers from various countries, allowing them to visit without a visa for specific periods. Below is a detailed breakdown of these exemptions based on the length of stay and conditions.

Visa Exemption for Up to 60 Days

Travelers from the following countries can enter South Korea without a visa for a stay of up to 60 days:

Lesotho
Russia

Visa Exemption for Up to 30 Days

Citizens of several countries are permitted to stay in South Korea for up to 30 days without a visa. These countries include:

Albania
Andorra
Argentina
Bahrain
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brunei
Cyprus
Eswatini
Fiji
Guam
Guyana
Honduras
Kazakhstan
Kiribati
Marshall Islands
Mauritius
Micronesia
Monaco
Montenegro
Nauru
New Caledonia
Oman
Palau
Paraguay
Qatar
Samoa
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Solomon Islands
South Africa
Tonga
Tunisia
Tuvalu
Vatican City

Additional Visa Exemptions

South Korea also provides visa exemptions under specific conditions that cater to various traveler circumstances:

Travellers with visas from key countries: If you possess a visa for the U.S., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand and are traveling directly from one of these countries or plan to visit them after your stay in South Korea.
Chinese group tourists: If you are a part of a Chinese group tourist with a group-tourist visa to Japan.
Onward travel: If you have an onward flight ticket scheduled to depart South Korea within the next 30 days.

These exemptions facilitate smoother travel arrangements, allowing visitors to experience South Korea’s rich culture and dynamic landscapes without the hassle of obtaining a visa for short stays. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or transit, understanding these guidelines can help plan an effortless trip to South Korea.

Types of South Korea Visas

South Korean visas are categorized based on the duration of stay and the number of entries they permit. These visas fall into two main types:

Single-entry Visas: These are valid for one entry into the country and allow a stay of up to 90 days.
Multiple-entry Visas: These visas permit the holder to enter South Korea multiple times over the period it is valid.

Depending on the purpose of your visit, different types of South Korean visas are available:

South Korea Tourist Visa
South Korea Business Visa
South Korea Family Visit Visa (for stays exceeding 90 days)
South Korea Work Visa
South Korea Student Visa
South Korea Working Holiday Visa

Understanding the South Korea Tourist Visa

The South Korea Tourist Visa is designed for foreigners traveling for leisure or recreational purposes. Eligible reasons for obtaining a tourist visa include:

Tourism
Transit
Receiving medical treatment at a South Korean hospital
Visiting family or friends
Attending religious, cultural, sporting, or musical events
Other short-term activities

Key Features of the South Korea Tourist Visa:

Duration: Allows a stay of up to 90 days in South Korea.
Restrictions: Holders of this visa cannot work or engage in any paid activities during their stay.

Remember, “South Korea tourist visas allow the holder to stay in South Korea for up to 90 days. The holder of a tourist visa is not allowed to work or engage in any other remunerated activities.” This emphasizes the importance of adhering to the visa’s stipulations to avoid any legal issues while in the country.

South Korea Business Visa

If you meet specific professional criteria, you may be eligible for a long-term Business Visa for South Korea. This visa applies to:

Specialists responsible for repairing, installing, or operating imported machinery in either public or private organizations in Korea.
Individuals going to work as managers or specialists within a South Korean company.
Intra-Company Transferees.
Specialists employed by foreign investment companies in South Korea.

South Korea Work Visa

Foreign nationals looking to work in South Korea must apply for a South Korea Work Visa. Eligible applicants include:

Professors, foreign language instructors, and researchers.
Professionals engaged in activities approved by the Minister of Justice, through contracts with public or private entities in South Korea.

South Korea Student Visa

Foreign students wishing to study in South Korea need to acquire a South Korea Student Visa. Available visa types include:

Short-term Student Visas for courses shorter than 90 days.
Long-term Student Visas for courses exceeding 90 days at universities or language schools.

South Korea Working Holiday Visa

The South Korea Working Holiday Visa is designed for young adults from countries in a Working Holiday Agreement with South Korea. This visa allows them to holiday, work, or study in South Korea for up to a year.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicant must be a citizen from one of the eligible countries.
Age must be between 18 and 30 years, although some countries have a cut-off at 25 years.
Must possess at least KRW 3,000,000 to cover initial expenses.
Should not have previously been issued a South Korea Working Holiday Visa.
Must have a clean criminal record.
The primary intention must be holidaying; work and study are secondary purposes.

Eligible Countries for the Working Holiday Visa:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, U.K., and the U.S.

This visa structure allows for an enriching experience, blending travel with opportunities for cultural exchanges through work and study, which should be secondary motives.

South Korea Family Visit Visa (For Stays Exceeding 90 Days)

If you are planning to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days to visit family, you may need to apply for a Family Visit Visa. This specific visa caters to individuals who fit into the following categories:

Long-term Family Visits: If your trip involves staying with a relative in South Korea for a duration exceeding 90 days.
Spouses of South Korean Nationals: If you are married to a citizen of South Korea.
Dependents of Residents: This applies if you are the spouse or a child under 20 years old of someone who holds temporary or permanent residency in South Korea.
Overseas Koreans: If you are part of the South Korean diaspora or previously held South Korean nationality, you are eligible for this visa type.

Each of these conditions ensures that family members and those with strong ties to South Korea can stay in the country for extended periods as needed. This visa facilitates deeper family connections and supports individuals maintaining their familial responsibilities while abroad.

South Korea Visa Requirements

When applying for a South Korea visa, applicants must provide a series of documents to support their application. The requirements may vary based on the visa type and the applicant’s home country. Below is a general list of required documents, along with specific requirements for various visa types.

General Requirements

All applicants must submit the following:

South Korea Visa Application Form
Passport:
Valid for a minimum of six more months
Must have at least two blank pages
Passport-size Photo(s): Read Detailed Requirements Here
Size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm
White background
Taken within the last three months
Neutral facial expression, looking straight ahead
Face and ears fully visible, no glasses worn
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Proof of Financial Means:
Bank statements
Income tax returns
Proof of Accommodation in South Korea (e.g., hotel reservation)
Visa Fee Payment as specified by the Embassy/Consulate

Specific Requirements Based on Visa Type

Student Visa:
Reference letter(s)
Letter of acceptance from a South Korean educational institution
Business Visa:
Letter from your current employer
Invitation letter from the South Korean company
Work Visa:
Employment contract

Additional Documents

Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may also need to provide:

Cover Letter: Introducing yourself and explaining your travel purpose
Trip Itinerary: Detailed daily activities planned in South Korea
Other Documents: As requested by the Embassy or Consulate

The documentation process is crucial for a successful visa application. Ensure all documents are complete and up-to-date to avoid delays or denials. As stated in an official guideline, “Adhering to the specified requirements is essential for the processing of your South Korea visa application.”

South Korea Visa Application Form: How to Obtain It

When applying for a South Korean visa, it’s essential to start by acquiring the correct application form. You can secure your South Korea Visa Application form in several ways:

Online: Download the form from the embassy or consulate’s website where you are filing your application, provided the form is available there.
Embassy or Consulate: You can also pick up a form directly when you visit for an appointment or to submit your documents.
Visa Application Agency: If you choose to utilize the services of a private company when applying for your visa, they can supply you with the form.

When filling out the visa application form, adhere to these guidelines:

Complete all sections of the form truthfully and completely.
Use a black or dark blue pen.
Ensure your writing is clear and legible.

How to Apply for a South Korea Visa

Depending on your situation, there are two main ways to apply for a South Korea visa:

Apply Abroad:
Apply directly at one of the Diplomatic Missions of the Republic of Korea, such as an embassy or consulate. This is the standard route for most applicants.
Apply via a Sponsor or Host in South Korea:
If you have a sponsor or host within South Korea, they can assist you by requesting a visa on your behalf through the South Korea Visa Portal of the Korea Immigration Office.

In either scenario, it’s important to ensure you follow the specific requirements set by the South Korean authorities to facilitate a smoother application process.

Applying for a South Korea Visa at an Embassy or Consulate

If you find yourself without a sponsor in South Korea or do not qualify for a “Confirmation of Visa Issuance”, your recourse is to apply directly at a South Korean Embassy or Consulate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about the visa application process:

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Locate Your Nearest South Korean Embassy or Consulate

Ensure the diplomatic office you choose is responsible for handling applications from your area. You can find a list of the South Korean diplomatic mission offices here.

Submit Your South Korea Visa Application

Complete the necessary forms and submit all required documentation.

Wait for Processing

Allow some time for your visa application to be processed by the embassy or consulate.

Return to the Diplomatic Office

Once your application has been processed, return to the office to complete any additional procedures.

Receive Your Visa

If approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport, permitting your entry into South Korea.

Note:

The rules for submitting a South Korea visa application and arranging appointments can vary depending on the country where you apply. It is crucial to either contact the embassy or consulate directly or visit their website for specific information.

By following these clear steps, applicants can navigate the process of obtaining a South Korean visa through their nearest embassy or consulate, ensuring all guidelines and procedures are correctly followed.

If you meet specific criteria, your sponsor in South Korea can facilitate your visa application by obtaining a “Confirmation of Visa Issuance” on your behalf. Here are the eligible categories:

Business Travelers: Invited by a South Korean company.
Medical Travelers: Visiting for medical purposes.
Academic and Research Professionals: Including professors, researchers, technical instructors, or professionals.
Foreign Nationals of Special Ability: Those highly skilled in advanced science and technology.
Investors: Those invited through the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business by a promotion agency.
Tourist Group Travelers: Applicable only to Chinese citizens.

Steps for Sponsors to Apply for a Visa Confirmation

Your sponsor must follow these steps at the Korean Immigration Office’s Visa Portal:

Complete the Online Application: Fill out the online visa form specific to your visit’s purpose.
Payment of Fees: Ensure the visa application fee is paid.
Attach Required Documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, various documents will be necessary.
Await Confirmation: Once the application is processed and approved, the sponsor should:

“Print the Confirmation and send it to you”

Next Steps After Visa Confirmation

Upon receiving the visa confirmation:

Submit the Confirmation: Forward the received Confirmation of Visa Issuance to the nearest South Korean Embassy/Consulate.
Receive Your Visa: Collect your South Korea visa stamped on your passport from the Embassy/Consulate.

Following these steps will prepare you for your travels to South Korea, ensuring that all required administrative procedures are handled efficiently.

South Korea Visa Processing Time

When planning a trip to South Korea, it’s essential to understand the visa processing time, which can vary based on the Embassy or Consulate where you apply. To ensure a smooth application process:

Submit your application at least 15 days before your planned travel.
Applications can be made no earlier than three months prior to your travel date.

Post-Arrival Procedures in South Korea

Upon arriving in South Korea with a visa, if your stay extends beyond 90 days, specific procedures must be followed to register your visit officially. This includes:

Visiting a local Immigration Office in South Korea.
Submitting the necessary documents, which include:
Your passport.
A completed application form, available for download online.
A passport-size photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm).
Processing fee payment of KRW 30,000.
Proof of residence such as utility bills or a lease agreement.
Additional documents based on your stay’s purpose.

Duration of a South Korea Visa

The length of your visa largely depends on the nature of your visit:

Tourism: Typically, visas are issued for up to 90 days and are usually valid for a single entry.
Long-term purposes: Visas for work or study are granted for longer periods to accommodate the duration of your assignment or schooling.

Understanding the precise rules and requirements for each type of South Korean visa can ensure a hassle-free travel and stay in the country. Remember, “Always check with the nearest embassy or consulate to further confirm the visa requirements specific to your situation.”

Extending a South Korea Visa

If you need to extend your stay in South Korea beyond the duration your current visa permits, it’s essential to apply for a visa extension. This application should be made at an Immigration Office within South Korea, ideally at least four months prior to the expiration of your existing visa.

Required Documents for Visa Extension

When applying for a visa extension, you must submit the following items:

Your Passport: Essential for travel and identification purposes.
Completed Application Form: This is for the permission of extension of stay and can be downloaded online.
Processing Fee Payment: The fee must be paid at the time of application.
Foreign Registration Card: Required if you are extending a long-term visa.
Additional Documents: These may be needed depending on your specific visa type.

Visa Fees

Here are the standard fees associated with different types of South Korean visas:

Single-entry visa (up to 90 days): US$ 40
Single-entry visa (longer than 90 days): US$ 60
Double-entry visa: US$ 70
Multiple-entry visa: US$ 90

These fees are crucial in successfully processing your visa extension and vary depending on the type and duration of your visa.

Special Visa Requirements for Jeju-do Region, South Korea

Traveling to the Jeju-do region in South Korea offers a unique opportunity, as certain international visitors can enjoy simplified entry processes. If your travel plans involve only the Jeju-do region, you might not need a visa—even if your country isn’t normally exempt from South Korean visa requirements.

Visa Exemption Conditions for Jeju-do:

To qualify for a visa-free entry to Jeju-do, you must meet the following criteria:

Direct Travel: Arrive directly at either Jeju International Airport or Jeju International Passenger Terminal.
Purpose of Visit: Your visit should be strictly for tourism purposes.
Duration of Stay: You are allowed to stay for no more than 30 days.

Exceptions to Visa-Free Entry:

It’s important to note that residents of certain countries are not eligible for this visa exemption scheme. Citizens from the following countries must obtain a visa prior to arrival:

Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Cameroon
Cuba
Egypt
Gambia
Ghana
Iran
Iraq
Kosovo
Kyrgyzstan
Macedonia
Myanmar
Nepal
Nigeria
Pakistan
Palestine
Senegal
Somalia
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Syria
Uzbekistan
Yemen

When planning your trip to the Jeju-do region, ensure that all conditions are met to take advantage of this visa-free access. Those ineligible for visa exemption must follow the standard visa application process to visit South Korea.

To assist you with your visit or immigration plans to South Korea, here is a well-structured list of official and relevant external resources, including immigration websites, government links, and necessary forms tailored to the process described in the content:

General Visa Information and Applications

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea:

Website: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Offers comprehensive details on South Korea’s foreign policies, including visa issues and bilateral relationships.

Korea Visa Portal:

Website: Visa Navigator
This tool helps to identify the type of visa required for your visit to South Korea based on the purpose of your trip and nationality.

Korea Immigration Service:

Website: Immigration Bureau
Provides detailed information on visa applications, policies, visa extensions, and immigration services.

Country-Specific Visa Exemptions and Agreements

HiKorea E-Government for Foreigners:
Website: HiKorea
Serves as a portal for various administrative services for foreigners, such as visa application, alien registration, and part-time work permissions.

Visa Application Forms

Application Form Downloads:
Visa Application Form
Make sure to download the correct form applicable to the specific type of visa you are applying for.

Embassy and Consulate Links

List of Korean Embassies Abroad:
Website: Korean Overseas Missions
Find specific contact information and websites for South Korean embassies and consulates worldwide, which is crucial when applying for a visa from abroad.

Special Visa Policies (e.g., Jeju-do)

Jeju Special Self-Governing Province:
Website: Jeju Tourism Organization – Visa Information
Provides information specifically about visa-free entry to Jeju-do, conditions, and exceptions.

Working Holiday Visa Specific

Working Holiday Visa Information by K-MOFA:
Website: Working Holiday Intro
Offers specifics on countries eligible for the Working Holiday Visa, requirements, and application procedures.

Long-Term Visas (Work, Study, Family)

Information on D-Visas (Work and Long-Term Stay Visas):
Website: Long-term Visas
Details on various D-type visas for those planning long-term stays in South Korea including work, study, and family visit visas.

Post-Arrival Procedures

Registration at Local Immigration Office:
Directions to Nearest Immigration Office: Office Locator
Necessary for foreigners staying longer than 90 days. Includes address registration, alien registration card issuance, etc.

Each of these resources provides authoritative and official information regarding visa policies, application processes, and specific conditions related to entering and staying in South Korea. Be sure to consult these sites to ensure you have the most current and applicable information for your travel or immigration needs.