South Korea eVisa

Many travellers visit South Korea to experience its advanced technology, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether drawn by Seoul's dynamic energy or the country's rich historical heritage, it's essential to know that a visa is required for legal entry. Since September 2021, even visa-exempt travellers must secure a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)—an online pre-screening system that streamlines entry and enhances security. Below, we will explore South Korean e-visa options, eligibility requirements, the application process, and more.

What is the South Korea eVisa/K-ETA? 

The South Korea eVisa/K-ETA is a streamlined, digital visa solution that allows eligible travellers from visa-waiver or visa-exempt countries to apply online for K-ETA to enter South Korea for a short stay—no embassy visits are required. Although these travellers do not need a traditional visa, they must obtain K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) if they meet the eligibility requirements.

Who can apply for a South Korea eVisa? 

• A person who does not have a valid Korean visa.

• A person intending to enter the country for tourism, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, and business (other than profitable activities).

• A person who plans a short-term stay in Korea for business and tourism purposes.

Who is eligible for the South Korea eVisa? 

All applicants from visa waiver agreements or visa-exempt countries can apply for the South Korea eVisa, also known as K-ETA. If your country is on the visa-exempt or waiver list, you can complete your application online without needing a traditional visa.

Countries Temporarily Exempt from the K-ETA Requirement

Until December 31, 2025, travellers from select countries that previously required a K-ETA can now enter South Korea without one. This temporary exemption is part of the "Visit Korea Year" initiative to boost tourism.The list of exempt countries includes:

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Who is eligible for the South Korea Traditional/Regular Visa? 

Citizens of countries not eligible for the South Korean K-ETA and those who are required to stay in South Korea for a long-term stay must apply for a South Korean regular Visa directly at a South Korean embassy or consulate. Here is a list of countries eligible for South Korea's traditional visa. 

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Entry Option Available for South Korea Visa? 

The South Korea eVisa/ETA is a multiple-entry visa, allowing you to enter and exit the country several times within its validity period.

South Korea eVisa: Validity and Stay Duration? 

The South Korean eVisa/K-ETA is valid for three years from the issuance date or until the ETA application's passport expires. During this period, Korean E-Tas allow multiple entries. However, the permitted stay per visit varies by nationality, typically 30 to 90 days. 

Types of South Korean Visas?

The South Korea eVisa/K-ETA accommodates various travel or visiting purposes to suit your needs. Whether you are visiting for leisure, business, or specialised activities, here are the primary purposes covered:

• Tourism: For individual travel, group tours, or incentive trips.

• Visit: For family or personal visits.

• Business: For meetings, conferences, or corporate visits.

• Medical Treatment: For receiving healthcare services in South Korea.

• Meeting: For attending professional or corporate gatherings.

• Event: For participation in conferences, exhibitions, or cultural events.

• Sports: For attending games, matches, or competitions.

• Others: For any other valid travel purpose as per official guidelines.

The following South Korean regular visa options are available. The applicant must visit the South Korean embassy or consulate to apply for the visa below. 

Short-Term Visas (C-Visas)

• C-3-1 (Tourism/General Visit): For short-term tourists or general visitors.

• C-3-4 (Business): For attending business meetings or conferences.

• C-3-9 (Family Visit): For visiting relatives in South Korea.

Long-Term Visas

• D-2 (Student Visa): For international students in full-time academic programs.

• D-4 (Training Visa): For those undergoing language or technical training.

• E-2 (Teaching Visa): For foreign language instructors, such as English teachers.

• E-5 (Professional Employment Visa): For highly skilled professionals in specific fields.

• F-6 (Marriage Visa): Foreign nationals married to South Korean citizens.

Working Holiday Visa (H-1)

For young travellers from certain countries, allowing them to work while visiting South Korea.

Transit Visa (G-1)

A transit visa is for travellers passing through South Korea who need a short stay.

Diplomatic and Official Visas (A-Visas)

For diplomats and official government travellers.

Special Visas

• F-4 (Overseas Korean Visa): For individuals of Korean heritage living abroad.

• E-7 (Specially Designated Activities Visa): This is for professionals in specific occupations requiring high-level expertise.

Documents required for South Korea Visa 

Documents required vary by visa type, but some documents include:

How do I apply for a South Korea eVisa/K-ETA? 

The procedure for applying for a South Korean visa varies depending upon the kind of visa you are seeking and the nation from which you are requesting. In general, you must take the following actions:

Create Account

• Begin by registering on the Japan Evisa portal with your email and contact information.
• Secure your login credentials to access your application dashboard.

Submit Application

• Complete the online application form, ensuring that all required fields are filled accurately.
• Attach all necessary documents before reviewing and submitting your application.

Pay Processing Fee

• Use a secure payment method to pay the visa processing fee through the portal.
• Confirm your payment and save the receipt as proof for future reference.

Receive Visa

• Once your application is processed, you will receive your visa via email.
• Download and print a copy of your visa for use during your travel.

Can I save and exit the South Korea eVisa application? 

• Save and Exit: You can save your progress anytime without losing your work.
• Temporary Application ID: You will receive a temporary ID to resume your application later.
• Resume Your Application: Visit the South Korea eVisa website and click "Continue Ongoing Application."
• Enter Temporary ID: Provide your temporary application ID.
• Click "Resume": Click "Resume" to continue from where you left off.

How much does a South Korean eVisa cost? 

The cost of a South Korean eVisa depends on factors such as your nationality, the type of visa you are applying for, and the processing time you select. Please visit the South Korea eVisa fee page for more detailed and specific information.

Processing Options for South Korea Visa Application

The South Korea Visa Application provides three processing options: 

• Standard Processing: Your application will be processed within 1-6 Working Days according to standard timelines, and there will be no additional fees. This option suits applicants with flexible travel plans and no immediate deadlines.

• Rush Processing: This option speeds up the processing time to 1- 3 Working Days at an extra cost compared to the standard process. It is ideal for travellers who need their visa faster than standard processing but not urgently while keeping costs lower than the super rush option.

• Super Rush Processing: This is the fastest option, processing your application in 24 Hours. Due to expedited processing, this option incurs the highest additional fee. It is suitable for those with urgent travel needs requiring immediate visa approval.

How do you track the South Korea eVisa application? 

It is critical to check the status of your application after submitting it. You will be assigned a unique application ID when you submit your application. Use this ID to track its status online and stay updated on its development. To track the status, use the below steps:

• Visit the South Korea eVisa website.
• Click on eVisa Status Check.
• Enter the application ID and passport number.
• Click on Check Status. 

How to Access and Present Your Approved South Korea eVisa

Once your South Korea eVisa is approved, follow these steps to ensure you have it ready for your trip:

• Check Your Email: Open the email address you provided during your application to find your approved eVisa attached, usually in PDF format.

• Download the eVisa: Save the attached eVisa document to your computer or mobile device for easy access.

• Print a Copy: Print a physical copy of your eVisa, as you’ll need to present it at immigration checkpoints when entering South Korea.

• Carry Your eVisa: Keep the printed copy with you throughout your travel, ready to show to immigration officials upon arrival.

• Backup an Electronic Copy: Additionally, save an electronic version (e.g., on your smartphone) as a backup in case the printed copy is lost or damaged.

Typical South Korea Visa Problems: How to Fix Them

• Incompleteness of Documents: Verify that all necessary documents, such as a passport, pictures, and supporting documentation, are complete and satisfy the requirements.

• Payment Errors: Check your payment information and make sure you have enough money to pay the visa charge.

• Application Mistakes: Before submitting, proofread your application for mistakes or omissions.

• Processing Delays: If your visa application takes longer than expected, contact customer support for updates.

• Refusals of Visas: Examine the reasons for rejection, address any problems, and consider reapplying.

• Overstaying: To prevent legal repercussions, always stay within the allotted time frame on your visa.

• Technical Issues: Ask the support staff for help if you have technical issues with the application platform.

• Passport Expired: Ensure your passport is still valid for visiting South Korea. 

Why Select Us?

Conclusion 

Securing your South Korea eVisa/K-ETA is now easier than ever with a streamlined online process. Follow the guidelines and provide accurate documentation for a smooth application experience. Plus, our 24/7 customer support is always available to assist you every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions

Popular destinations in South Korea

Here are some popular destinations in South Korea: