Introduction
South Korea is a popular destination for tourists, students, and professionals from India due to its rich culture, advanced technology, and educational opportunities. If you are an Indian citizen planning to visit South Korea, obtaining the appropriate visa is essential. Understanding the different types of visas, the application process, and the necessary documentation will help ensure a smooth visa approval experience.
Types of South Korea visas
South Korea offers various types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of your stay. Here are the most common visa types:
- Tourist visa (C-3): For individuals visiting South Korea for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits, typically allowing stays up to 90 days.
- Student visa (D-2): Issued to students enrolled in South Korean educational institutions for long-term studies.
- Work visa (E-series): For individuals employed by a South Korean company, this visa varies depending on the profession, such as teaching, research, or skilled labour.
- Business visa (C-3-4): For short-term business activities, including meetings, conferences, and negotiations, without the intention of employment.
- Family visa (F-3): For family members accompanying individuals working or studying in South Korea.
South Korea visa application steps
Applying for a South Korea visa requires a few key steps that need to be completed carefully. The following is a general guide to the process:
- Determine the visa type you need based on the purpose of your visit (tourism, study, work, etc.).
- Visit the official website of the South Korean Embassy or Consulate in India to download the visa application form and check specific requirements.
- Complete the application form with accurate details, ensuring all required fields are filled in correctly.
- Gather all the necessary documents, such as your passport, photographs, financial proof, and more, based on the type of visa you are applying for.
- Submit your visa application, along with the documents and fee, either at the South Korean Embassy or through a visa processing centre.
- Await the decision and be prepared to provide additional documents if requested by the consulate.
Required documents for South Korea visa
The required documents for a South Korea visa depend on the type of visa you are applying for. However, there are common documents that must be submitted for most visa applications:
- Completed visa application form: Ensure that all information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
- Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and at least two blank pages.
- Recent passport-sized photographs: Photos that meet the consulate’s specific requirements, typically related to size and background.
- Financial proof: Bank statements, income certificates, or other documents showing that you have enough funds to support your stay in South Korea.
- Travel itinerary: Proof of travel bookings, including flight tickets and hotel reservations, or invitation letters from hosts.
- Visa fee receipt: Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
South Korea visa fees
The visa fees for a South Korean visa for Indian citizens vary depending on the type of visa. The current fees are as follows:
- Short-term single-entry visa: Rs. 3,200 – Valid for stays of less than 90 days.
- Long-term single-entry visa: Rs. 4,800 – For stays of more than 91 days.
- Multiple entry visa: Rs. 7,200 – Allows multiple entries into South Korea within a specified period.
Visa fees are non-refundable and must be paid in cash only. Please note that the fees are subject to change without prior notice.
In addition to the visa fees, there may be additional service charges depending on the visa application and processing centres. Applicants must also ensure that all documents are authentic, complete, and meet the consulate’s requirements. For instance, you may need to provide proof of a bank balance of at least Rs. 70,000 to cover travel expenses and emergencies during your stay.
