South Korea Embassy & Consulate Guide
Key highlights
- South Korea now issues digital 'Visa Grant Notices' instead of physical stickers.
- K-ETA is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries.
- Financial stability is a primary focus for consular officers.
- Mandatory appointment booking is standard for most Consulates.
- Specific jurisdictions apply based on your current place of residency.
- Processing times vary significantly between peak and off-peak seasons.
- Business visas require a notarised invitation from the Korean entity.
Processing time
10-14 working days
Processing times exclude public holidays in both South Korea and the host country. Some consulates do not offer expedited services.
Estimated cost
$60 - $125
- Single-entry visa fee (standard)$40 - $60
- Multiple-entry visa fee$90
- Visa Application Centre service fee (if applicable)$20 - $35
Requirements
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
- The applicant must reside within the legal jurisdiction of the specific Consulate.
- Evidence of stable employment or student status in the country of residence.
- Recent passport-sized photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm) against a white background.
- Financial documents must be original and recently issued by the bank.
- All non-English or non-Korean documents must be professionally translated.
- No criminal record that would preclude entry into South Korea.
- Minors must provide a birth certificate and a notarised letter of consent from parents.
Documents you'll need
- Valid original passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form with recent colour photo
- Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements from the last 3 months)
- Certificate of Employment or business registration documents
- Detailed travel itinerary and round-trip flight reservation
- Proof of accommodation booking in South Korea
- Invitation letter (if visiting friends, family, or for business)
- K-ETA approval (for visa-exempt nationalities only)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Identify your Jurisdiction
Determine which South Korean Consulate covers your region based on your permanent address or long-term residence.
- 2
Book an Appointment
Visit the Consulate's website to see if you must book an appointment or if walk-ins are accepted during specific hours.
- 3
Complete the Application Form
Download and complete the latest version of the visa application form; ensure all fields are filled accurately to avoid delays.
- 4
Gather Supporting Documents
Collate your bank statements, employment letters, and travel plans according to the specific checklist for your visa type.
- 5
Submit and Pay Fees
Attend the appointment or visit the VAC to submit your file and pay the non-refundable visa processing fee.
- 6
Track Application Status
Use your application number to track the progress via the Korea Visa Portal website.
- 7
Download Visa Grant Notice
Once the status shows 'Approved', download and print your official Visa Grant Notice for travel.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your bank statements are stamped by the bank; digital printouts without stamps are often rejected.
- Double-check that the name on your application matches your passport exactly, including middle names.
- Provide a clear, typed itinerary rather than a vague description of your plans.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is granted; a flight reservation is sufficient.
- Submit your application at least 4 weeks before your intended departure date.
- If you are a freelancer, provide tax return documents to prove your income stability.
Frequently asked questions
Related 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.