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South Korea Tourist Visa: Requirements, Application, And Fees

Last Update: 20-08-2024

National Folk Museum in Seoul, South Korea

⚡Quick Summary

Do Indians need a visa to visit South Korea?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require an e-visa to visit Korea.

South Korea tourist visa Processing time

12 Working Days

South Korea tourist visa fees

US$40 (₹ 3,200)

South Korea tourist visa validity

90 Days

South Korea tourist visa stay duration

30 Days

How to apply for a South Korea tourist visa?

  1. Apply through Teleport in minutes
  2. Apply through the VFS visa application centre.

Documents required for a South Korea tourist visa

  1. Passport
  2. Photograph
  3. Flight and Hotel Bookings
  4. Visa Application Form
  5. Bank Statement (Last 6 months)
  6. Income tax return (Last 3 years)
  7. Cover Letter
  8. Travel Itinerary
  9. Health Declaration Form
  10. Other supporting documents

Does South Korea offer visas on arrival to Indians?

No, Indians can not get a Korean visa on arrival. They need to have an approved e-visa before they enter Korea.

Do Indians Need a Tourist Visa to Visit South Korea?

Yes, Indians need a visa to visit South Korea. South Korea issues e-visas to Indians and can take up to 12 working days to process these visas. South Korea’s single-entry tourist visa is valid for 90 days which Indians can use to stay for up to 30 days in the country.

Do you want South Korea to be your next travel destination? This blog is an extensive guide to obtaining your South Korea tourist visa. We cover everything from documentation, and application procedures to visa fees, types, and validity.


Use the navigation bar to jump to the section you need. Have questions? Call us on 073148 52914 or you can also WhatsApp us. Teleport’s visa experts are always available to help you.


Let’s go to South Korea without worrying about visas!

Table of Contents


  1. What are the Different Types of South Korean Visas for Indians?
  2. How to Apply for South Korea Visa?
  3. South Korea Visa Requirements
  4. Financial Requirements for a South Korea Visa
  5. South Korea Visa Processing Time
  6. South Korea Visa Fees
  7. Validity and Duration for South Korea Tourist Visa
  8. How to Check the Status of a South Korean Tourist Visa Application for Indians?
  9. Common Reasons for South Korea Tourist Visa Rejections for Indians
  10. What to do after reaching the South Korean Airport?
  11. FAQs

Is There a South Korea Visa on Arrival for Indians?

No, South Korea doesn’t offer visa-on-arrival to Indians. You need to have your e-visa approved before starting your trip to the country.

What are the Different Types of South Korean Visas for Indians?

South Korea offers visas for various purposes such as visas for medical treatment, trainee visas, journalist visas, work visas, etc. However, for Indian tourists, the following visas are relevant - 


  1. Ordinary Tourist Visa (C-3-9) - Issued to a person who plans to visit Korea for travel for holidays or leisure for a period of 30 days.
  2. Group Tourist Visa (C-3-2) - Issued to a person or group who plans to visit Korea for travel, or small-scale cross-border trading, guaranteed by a travel agency.

How to Apply for South Korea Visa?

Apply for your South Korea Visa with Teleport

Teleport makes applying for a South Korean visa straightforward and stress-free. Follow these steps for a smooth application process:


Step 1: Start Your Korea Visa Application:

Go to Teleport's South Korea visa application page and select 'Start Application.' Teleport offers both tourist and business visa options for South Korea.


Step 2: Enter Basic Information and Make Payment:

Upload an image of your passport. Choose between full or partial payment, and follow Teleport's guidance for putting in personal information. Teleport automatically populates your data using the image of your passport or you can also choose to do it manually. 


Step 3: Courier Your Documents:

A dedicated Teleport Relationship Manager will guide you through collecting all necessary South Korean tourist visa documents. You need to courier these documents to the nearest Teleport office.


Step 4: Appointment Booking:

Your Teleport Relationship Manager will schedule an appointment at the visa application centre based on the available slots. They will also submit your documents at the visa application centre.


✅ Teleport ensures your application and documents meet all the necessary South Korea tourist visa  requirements before submission.


Teleport also keeps you updated on your visa application status through regular WhatsApp messages and emails. You'll receive timely notifications regarding the embassy's/consulate’s decision. All updates will be communicated via the platform, and upon visa approval, you can download it from your Teleport Dashboard.

Apply for South Korea Visa through VFS Global

Step 1: Determine the visa type

Identify the type of visa you need. People typically apply for a 'Temporary Visit' Visa for tourism purposes. Get the documents required for the visa in order. Read the next section to know all the documents you need to apply for a Korean visa. If your documents are not in English, translate them before applying for the Korean visa.


Step 2: Get started with your South Korean visa application

Fill out the online visa application form and print it. You will need it together with the documents required for the Visa category chosen for submission at the Korean Embassy/Consulate.

Note

You do not need to book an appointment with the Korea Visa Application Centre in India. You can directly walk-in and submit your application.

Step 3: Visit the Korea Visa Application Centre

Submit your completed visa application form at the Visa Application Center in person or through a representative. You will also need to pay the visa fee at the visa centre. 

VFS Visa Application CentresWorking Hours (Mon to Fri)

Kolkata

9 AM - 1 PM

New Delhi

9 AM - 1 PM

Chennai

  • 9 AM - 1 PM (Submission hours for individuals)
  • 9 AM - 3 PM (Passport retrieval time)

Bengaluru

  • 9 AM - 1 PM (Submission hours for individuals)
  • 9 AM - 3 PM (Passport retrieval time)

Important

Please note that you are only permitted to visit the application centre assigned to your jurisdiction based on your location. Refer to the table below to determine which centre you are eligible to visit.

Jurisdiction for Visa SubmissionStates/ Territories Covered

South Korean Embassy, New Delhi

Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Delhi, Chandigarh, J&K, Ladakh

Consulate General of South Korea, Mumbai

Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli

Consulate General of South Korea, Chennai

Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Puducherry

Step 4: Pay Your Visa Fees

After completing your application, the next step involves paying the visa application fee. You can download the form, print it, and bring it to the Korea Visa Application Center. You'll be required to pay both the visa fee and service charges at the center.


Step 5: Track Your Application

You will receive an email notification once your decision has been returned to the Visa Application Center. If accessing email is inconvenient for you or if you prefer more detailed tracking, you may opt to receive updates via SMS directly to your phone. Please inquire at the Visa Application Center you are visiting to confirm if this service is available.


Additionally, you can monitor the status of your visa application online. Simply utilise the Reference Number provided on the invoice or receipt issued by the Korea Visa Application Center, along with your last name, to access this service.


Step 6: Collect Your Passport

Once a decision has been reached on your visa application, you have the option to retrieve your passport directly from the Visa Application Centre or opt for delivery by courier service, albeit with an additional fee.


For in-person collection, remember to carry the receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre along with a valid form of government identification. If circumstances permit, you may authorise a representative to collect your passport on your behalf. They must present a signed letter of authorization from you, the receipt provided by the Visa Application Center, and a government identification card.

South Korea Visa Requirements

Mandatory Documents

Visa Application Form

A filled and signed Visa Application Form

Passport

  • Original passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Old Passport (if any)

Photograph

  • Provide a recent photograph with an 80% face close-up.
  • Size: 35 x 45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
  • White background

Bank Statement

Original personal bank statement for the last six months with a minimum balance of ₹ 70,000 per person.

Income Tax Return

Latest 3 years Income Tax Return

Cover Letter

  • Addressed to the Embassy/Consulate General of South Korea.
  • Include passport details, work profile, travel purpose, stay details, travel dates, expense details, home address, and mobile number.

Travel Itinerary

Day-to-day travel itinerary for your entire stay in South Korea.

Hotel Booking

Confirmed refundable hotel booking covering the entire stay

Flight Tickets

Onward and return refundable flight tickets.

Health Declaration Form

Submission of the Declaration Form (for New Delhi applicants).

Supporting Documents:

If Employed

  • Leave Approval Letter or NOC from the employer.
  • Last 3 months' salary slips with company seal and signature.
  • 1-year salary slip for New Delhi applicants.

If Self-Employed

Business registration, Gumasta Licence (Shop & establishment Licence), or GST certificate.

If a Student

  • Leave sanction letter from school/college on letterhead.
  • School/college ID copy.

South Korea Visa Processing Time

The South Korea visa processing time is 10 to 12 working days. However, it can vary depending on factors such as the type of visa and the current workload at the embassy or consulate.


To ensure a smooth process for obtaining a South Korean tourist visa, begin by gathering essential documents such as recent photos, your travel itinerary, financial statements, and a completed visa application form. Once prepared, schedule an appointment at the nearest South Korean visa application centre.


Considering the time involved, initiating this process at least 2 months before your planned travel date is advisable to minimise any last-minute challenges.

South Korea Visa Fees

All the South Korea visa cost mentioned below should be paid in cash/card at the time of submission of the visa application form at the Korean Visa Application Centre.

Visa TypeAmount

Short Term Single Entry Visa (for less than 90 days)

US$ 40 (₹ 3,200/-)

Financial Requirements for a South Korea Visa

When applying for a South Korea visa, meeting the financial requirements is a crucial part of the application process. Here’s a breakdown of the key financial documents you need to provide:

1. Bank Statement:

  • Minimum Balance: A minimum bank balance for South Korea visa is ₹70,000 per person in their bank account.
  • Duration: The bank statement should cover the last six months.
  • Original Statement: Ensure that the statement is an original, stamped, and signed by the bank, demonstrating consistent and sufficient funds to support your stay in South Korea.

2. Income Tax Returns (ITR):

  • Submission of ITR: You are required to submit your Income Tax Returns for the last three years. This document is crucial in showing your financial stability and regular income flow.
  • Consistency: The ITRs should be complete and consistent with the information provided in your bank statements, reflecting your ability to support yourself during your stay in South Korea.

These financial documents help establish your financial capability and intent to return to your home country after your visit to South Korea. Ensuring that these documents are accurate and up-to-date is essential for a smooth visa application process.

Validity and Duration for South Korea Tourist Visa

The South Korea tourist visa for Indians is a single-entry e-visa valid for 90 days which allows its holder to stay in the country for up to 30 days. It's essential to check the details provided by the South Korean embassy or consulate where you apply for the visa, as they will specify the exact validity period and any conditions attached to the visa.

How to Check the Status of a South Korean Tourist Visa Application for Indians?

Track Your South Korea Tourist Visa Application Through Teleport

Teleport allows you to keep track of your Korean visa application effortlessly. If you've applied for your Korean visa using Teleport, expect to get updates in real-time via WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard.


Here's how to check your application's progress:

  1. Sign into the Teleport Dashboard.
  2. Navigate to 'Your Applications.'
  3. Select your application to see its current status.

Track Your South Korea Tourist Visa Application from the Government’s Website

  1. Visit the official website of the South Korean government.
  2. Select Electronic Visa (Individual) or Electronic Visa (Group) or Visa Application Centre.
  3. Input your application no., passport no., date of birth, and name.
  4. Click on ‘Search’.

South Korea Tourist Visa Application Check

Track Your South Korea Visa Application Through VFS Global

Alternatively, you can use VFS Global’s portal to keep track of your application. Simply follow the instructions below:


  1. Visit the VFS online application tracking page.
  2. Input the 14-digit Visa Application Reference Number you received after paying your visa fee. 
  3. Enter your last name.
  4. Fill in the captcha and hit ‘Submit’.

Common Reasons for South Korea Tourist Visa Rejections for Indians

When applying for a Korean visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening your application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:


  1. Lack of Proper Documentation: Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause your application to be immediately declined and may also affect future attempts. All Korean tourist visa documents for Indians that you submit must be authentic, completed, and satisfactory.
  2. Not Enough Proof of Financial Stability: It's important to show a bank balance of at least ₹ 70,000 to cover your travel expenses and any emergencies that might arise.
  3. Questionable Travel Record: A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to Korea's visa regulations.
  4. Intentions Under Scrutiny: Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with your planned activities might arouse suspicion. 
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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Demonstrate financial stability to reduce the chances of visa denial. Have a minimum bank balance of ₹ 70,000 per applicant and provide clear bank statements and income tax returns.

What to do after reaching the South Korean Airport?

Upon your arrival at the South Korean airport, ensure a hassle-free exit by following these steps:

  • Prepare Travel Documents: Have your passport and a valid South Korean visit visa ready for quick verification by immigration authorities. It's advisable to carry physical printouts or ensure easy accessibility on your mobile device.
  • Understand South Korea's Regulations: If you have items to declare or your baggage requires inspection, proceed to the customs area. Familiarize yourself with South Korea's Customs Regulations to make use of various services, duty-free shopping, and traveler facilities.
  • Unaccompanied Minor Guidelines: If you are an unaccompanied minor, stay with your designated flight attendant for safety. Identify your assigned adult at the destination airport to ensure a secure arrival.
  • Keep Your Arrival Card Ready:
  • A foreigner entering Korea has to go through immigration at the port of entry. Please present your passport along with the completed arrival card (Form No.41-2) that states the purpose of your entry, location of residence, etc. to immigration officials. 

Conclusion

Getting visas can be tough. With this blog, we’ve tried to explain the process of obtaining a South Korean tourist visa. In case you have questions for us, feel free to call us at 073148 52914 or message us on WhatsApp. Team Teleport is at your service! 


Consider applying with us at Teleport for a hassle-free South Korea tourist visa application. Our intuitive and user-friendly platform simplifies the entire process, so that you have one less thing to worry about - your visa!


South Korea’s beautiful landscapes await your exploration. Who knows, you may bump into a K-Pop star. Have a safe travel and enjoy your journey!

FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria for a South Korea tourist visa?

The eligibility criteria typically include having a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, a confirmed itinerary, a return ticket, and no intention to work or study during your visit. South Korea tourist visa requirements may vary based on your nationality, so it's essential to check the specific requirements for your country.

Do I need travel insurance for a South Korea tourist visa?

While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for a South Korea tourist visa, it's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events during your stay.

Can I apply for a South Korea tourist visa online?

South Korea does not typically offer an online visa application process for tourist visas. You can only fill in your application form online and usually need to apply in person or through a visa processing centre, either directly or through a designated travel agency.

What is the processing time for a South Korean tourist visa?

It takes 12 working days to process a South Korean tourist visa after you've submitted your application and provided all the required documents.

How much bank balance is required for a South Korea tourist visa?

The specific bank balance required for a South Korea tourist visa for Indians can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of stay, planned activities, and the embassy's discretion. While there is no fixed amount, having approximately 70,000 INR in your bank account could be considered sufficient to cover your expenses during your trip.

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