Do I need a visa or a K-ETA?

Citizens of visa-waiver countries (like the UK, USA, and many EU nations) must apply for a K-ETA online at least 72 hours before departure for short visits.

How long does it take to get a South Korean visa?

Standard processing for a C-3 visitor visa usually takes 5 to 10 working days, though it varies significantly by the specific embassy or consulate.

Can I work in South Korea on a tourist visa?

Yes, South Korea offers a specific D-10-1 Job Seeker visa for those looking for work, and various E-type visas for those who already have a job offer from a Korean entity.

Can I apply for a South Korea visa while traveling in another country?

Generally, you should apply for a South Korea visa in your country of residence or citizenship. Applying as a tourist in a third country is often restricted.

How long is a K-ETA valid for?

The K-ETA is typically valid for 3 years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Is there a Digital Nomad visa for South Korea?

Digital nomads can apply for the Workcation (F-1-D) visa, which allows remote workers for foreign companies to stay for up to two years under specific income requirements.

Do I need an Alien Registration Card?

Yes, most long-term visas (exceeding 90 days) require you to register for an Alien Registration Card (Residence Card) within 90 days of arrival.

How long is the visa valid for entry?

Single-entry visas are usually valid for 3 months from the date of issue. Multiple-entry visas can be valid for 1, 3, or 5 years depending on eligibility.

country hub

South Korea Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained

South Korea, the 'Land of the Morning Calm', offers a sophisticated and structured visa system designed to welcome tourists, students, and skilled professionals. Whether you are heading to Seoul for a short holiday, enrolling at a prestigious university, or seeking employment in the bustling tech sector, understanding the specific visa category that fits your needs is the first step toward a successful journey. Most short-term visitors from visa-waiver countries will only require a K-ETA, while others must navigate the various C, D, and E-series stickers via an embassy or consulate. The application process is highly digitised but remains rigorous. Immigration authorities focus heavily on your ties to your home country, your financial ability to support your stay, and the legitimacy of your inviting organisation. As policies are subject to frequent updates—including the recent introduction of the Digital Nomad (Workcation) visa—it is essential to stay informed about the latest requirements. Always verify specific document checklists with your local South Korean diplomatic mission before submitting your application.

Key highlights

K-ETA system for visa-free entry for eligible nationalities
C-3 Visas for short-term tourism, business, and medical visits
D-series visas for students, researchers, and trainees
E-series visas for professional employment and English teaching (E-2)
New 'Workcation' visa for digital nomads and remote workers
F-series visas for long-term residency and family reunification
Streamlined online portals for visa status checking and extensions
Strict health and financial sufficiency requirements for all applicants

Processing time

5-10 working days

Processing times vary by mission and peak seasons (e.g., student intake in February and August). Ensure you apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.

Estimated cost

$10 - $250

Government Processing Fee$0 - $200 (varies by nationality/visa type)
K-ETA Application Fee (if applicable)$7 - $10
Visa Application Centre (VAC) Service ChargeVaries

Requirements

Must hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry
Must have a clean criminal record for employment and long-stay visas
Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay
Health insurance coverage (required for certain visa categories)
A confirmed return or onward flight ticket for short-term stays
Specific age requirements apply to Working Holiday (H-1) visas (usually 18-30)
Educational certificates must often be apostilled or consular-verified for work visas
TB (Tuberculosis) test result from a designated hospital for certain nationalities
No record of immigration law violations in South Korea
Business applicants must provide a copy of the Korean host company's registration

Documents you'll need

Valid original passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
Completed and signed Visa Application Form (Form No. 17)
One recent passport-sized colour photograph (3.5cm x 4.5cm)
Proof of financial sufficiency (e.g., bank statements from the last 3 months)
Flight itinerary and proof of accommodation (hotel bookings)
Letter of invitation or sponsorship (if applicable)
Business registration or employment certificate (for work/business visas)
Certificate of Admission (for student D-type visas)

How to apply, step by step

1
Identify the Correct Visa Category
Determine if you are eligible for the K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) or if you require a traditional visa sticker based on your nationality and purpose of visit.
2
Determine Application Location
Locate the South Korean Embassy or Consulate-General with jurisdiction over your place of residence. Many countries now use Korea Visa Application Centres (KVAC).
3
Prepare Supporting Documents
Download and complete the latest version of the Visa Application Form. Gather all supporting documents, ensuring they are translated into English or Korean if required.
4
Schedule an Appointment
If applying via an embassy or KVAC, you may need to book an appointment online. Check if your specific mission allows walk-ins or requires a prior booking.
5
Submit and Pay Fees
Submit your application in person or via an authorised agent. Pay the non-refundable application fee in the local currency as specified by the mission.
6
Track Application Status
Use the official Korea Visa Portal (visa.go.kr) to check the status of your application using your passport number and date of birth.
7
Download Visa Grant Notice
South Korea now primarily issues 'Visa Grant Notices' (electronic visas) rather than physical stickers for many categories. Print this notice for presentation at the airport.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your photograph meets the exact dimensions (3.5cm x 4.5cm) and was taken within the last 6 months.
Provide clear, official bank statements; screenshots of mobile banking apps are often rejected.
Check if your documents require an Apostille or authentication from the South Korean Embassy in your home country.
Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is granted, as processing times are never guaranteed.
For work visas, ensure your employer in Korea has obtained a 'Visa Issuance Confirmation Number' from Korean Immigration.
Double-check that the name on your application matches your passport precisely, including middle names.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

South Korea Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time South Korea Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time South Korea Embassy & Consulate Guide

Browse all visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

Check your eligibility Talk to a consultant