It is quintessential to learn about VISA rules and regulations before travelling to any foreign country. Different countries have different norms and sometimes people from different nationalities have different rules pertaining to them. Understanding these norms will lead to a more relaxed and streamlined trip.

Do you need a VISA to travel to South Korea?

• The South Korean government implemented a new electronic travel authorization system that allows individuals from certain countries to travel to South Korea without a VISA. Known as the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization or K-ETA, the system was put in place during September 2021. Many countries can apply for K-ETA (Canada, Antigua, Barbuda, Iceland, Guam, Japan, Kuwait and many more).
• People from different countries can apply for K-ETA for different durations. For more details on this you can read the detailed rules and regulations on the government’s website or visit the South Korean Embassy in your country.
• If the name of your country is not listed above, you will need to visit the South Korean embassy in your country and apply for a VISA. However, you can also use the online portal for application.

Documents needed to apply for a South Korean VISA

There are a set of documents required for a VISA application and they are as follows:

• Passport : Carrying a passport is mandatory during international travel and it must be valid for six months ahead of your date of travel.
• Passport size photographs :A regular VISA application asks for two recent photographs.
• Proof of accommodation: You will need to share the details pertaining to your hotel reservation or sponsor.
• Proof of means : Sharing your bank statements and salary slips is also normal while applying for a VISA.
• Travel insurance : Showing proof of travel insurance is mandatory in some countries.
• VISA application fee : A nominal fee to be paid while submitting the form.
• VISA application form: : The most important document to be filled in carefully by each applicant.
• Travel itinerary : You must share all the details pertaining to the flights you take while in the country along with your return ticket.

Note :The requirements are subject to change and are often updated. It is best to stay at pace with these requirements by regularly visiting the government’s website or the embassy in your country. Alternatively, you could also consult your travel agent for more details.

Guidelines for VISA application

VISA applications often seem intimidating for foreigners and a fear of rejection is very common. However, by keeping the following pointers in mind your application will be ripe for approval.

• Make sure you fill in the VISA application form carefully and pen in the accurate and updated details.
• There are multiple types of VISAs so make sure you select the correct one.
• Make sure you pay the application fee while submitting the form to ensure no hiccups.
• Attach all the necessary updated documents with the form before submission.
• You can submit the form at the embassy in your country or online.
• VISA approvals tend to take some time, so it is best to apply for it by mentioning a tentative date of travel.
• Visit the government’s website or the embassy often to stay up to date with the norms.

How to extend your South Korean VISA?

Tourists often realise that they need more time to explore the magical and culture-rich lands of South Korea. In such cases, you might be eligible for VISA extensions. Read on to find out.

Individuals from countries listed with the K-ETA cannot apply for a VISA extension and must leave the country within the duration pertaining to their nation. However, it is possible for them to leave Korea and then come back later without reapplication.

Regular VISA holders visiting South Korea may apply for extensions. However, extension will only be granted on a case-by-case basis. To apply for a VISA extension you must visit the Immigrations office in Seoul.

You will need the following to apply for a VISA extension:

• A valid passport
• Filled in the form at the Immigration Office in Seoul.
• Alien Registration Card (provided the traveller has one).
• Any other attested document which legitimises the reason for the VISA extension.
• All other documents are required while applying for a regular VISA.

Types of VISA Available in South Korea

Like many countries, South Korea also offers a wide array of VISAs to choose from. You may apply for the one that suits your needs the best. They are as follows:

• Tourist VISA: Meant for anyone who wants to stay in Korea for up to 90 days.
• Working VISA: Meant for foreign nationals with a job in South Korea.
• Student VISA : Meant for international students pursuing higher education in South Korea.
• Business VISA : Meant for foreign nationals travelling to South Korea for business purposes.
• Spouse and Family Reunion VISA : Meant for family members of South Korean citizens.
• Cultural Exchange VISA : Meant for foreign nationals travelling to South Korea for sports, music or art training and research. .
• Family VISA : Meant for family members of Hungarian citizens.
• Working Holiday VISA : Meant for individuals from specific countries to travel to and work from South Korea.
• Humanitarian VISA : Meant for foreign nationals seeking refuge, protection or asylum in South Korea.
• Transit VISA : Meant for international passengers changing flights in South Korea.
• Entertainment VISA : Meant for foreign athletes, entertainers and artists invited to perform in South Korea.
• Journalist VISA : Meant for international journalists travelling to South Korea.
• Professionals and Highly Skilled Migrant VISAs : Meant for highly skilled professionals who wish to work and reside in South Korea.

Note : It is useful to keep checking this list on the South Korean government’s page to stay updated with the latest updates as it is subject to change.