Required Documents for a South Korean Visa: An Updated List

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, one of the first steps you will need to take is applying for a visa. The visa application process can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip.

To help make the visa application process smoother, we have compiled an updated list of the required documents for a South Korean visa.

Types of South Korean Visas

There are three primary types of visas available for those visiting South Korea: tourist visas, business visas, and student visas.

Tourist visas are for those coming to South Korea for leisure purposes, such as sightseeing or visiting family.

Business visas are for those coming to South Korea for work-related reasons. This can include attending conferences or meeting with business partners.

Student visas are for those coming to South Korea to study at a university or in a Korean language program.

Required Documents for a South Korean Tourist Visa

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea for leisure purposes, you will need to submit the following documents:

– A completed visa application form
– Your original passport with at least six months of validity remaining
– One passport-sized photograph (found on the visa application form)
– Proof of your travel itinerary, including flight tickets and accommodation reservations
– Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in South Korea, such as bank statements or credit card statements
– A letter of invitation from a sponsor in South Korea (if applicable)

Required Documents for a South Korean Business Visa

If you’re coming to South Korea for work-related reasons, you will need to submit the following documents:

– A completed visa application form
– Your original passport with at least six months of validity remaining
– One passport-sized photograph (found on the visa application form)
– A letter of invitation from the sponsoring company in South Korea, detailing the purpose of your trip and your intended length of stay
– Proof of your travel itinerary, including flight tickets and accommodation reservations
– Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in South Korea, such as bank statements or credit card statements

Required Documents for a South Korean Student Visa

If you’re coming to South Korea to study, you will need to submit the following documents:

– A completed visa application form
– Your original passport with at least six months of validity remaining
– One passport-sized photograph (found on the visa application form)
– A letter of acceptance from the university or language school in South Korea
– Proof of your travel itinerary, including flight tickets and accommodation reservations
– Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in South Korea, such as bank statements or scholarships

FAQs about South Korean Visas

1. How long does it take to process a South Korean visa?

Typically, it takes around five business days to process a South Korean visa.

2. Do I need to submit my original passport?

Yes, you will need to submit your original passport when applying for a South Korean visa.

3. Do I need to speak Korean to apply for a visa?

No, you do not need to speak Korean to apply for a South Korean visa. However, it can be helpful to have someone who speaks Korean assist you with the application process.

4. Is an interview required for a South Korean visa?

In some cases, an interview may be required for a South Korean visa. This depends on the purpose of your trip and your nationality.

5. How long is a South Korean visa valid?

The validity of a South Korean visa varies depending on the type of visa and the individual circumstances of the applicant. Typically, tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days, while business and student visas can be valid for longer periods of time.

Conclusion

Applying for a South Korean visa can seem overwhelming, but with the right documents and information, the process can be straightforward. Make sure to double-check the requirements for your specific visa application to ensure a smooth and successful process.