Travel to South Korea: Visa Requirements and Entry Details
Not many countries rival South Korea in terms of the sights-to-size ratio. You can traverse the country in just two and a half hours, with a wealth of experiences awaiting you—from serene mountain trails leading to Buddhist hermitages to vibrant K-Pop concerts and inviting back-alley pubs serving craft rice wines amidst enchanting bamboo forests.
To maximize your visit, it’s essential to start with the entry requirements. Understanding who needs a visa to South Korea and how to apply can make your travel plans smoother.
Who Can Travel to South Korea Visa-Free?
Many participants in the global travel community, including residents from the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and most European countries, can stay in Korea for up to 90 days without a visa. Canadians enjoy a more extended option of up to six months, while those from South Africa can visit for 30 days. For current requirements tailored to your nationality, please check the Korean government’s Visa Portal.
Even if a visa isn’t necessary, travelers will need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (₩10,000) through the K-ETA website or K-ETA app at least 72 hours prior to departure. Applicants will typically receive notification of their approval via email within 24 hours. This K-ETA remains valid for two years, allowing for multiple visits within that timeframe.
Who Needs a Tourist Visa for South Korea?
Individuals coming from countries without a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea must apply for a visa. Generally, this visa allows for a single entry with a stay of 90 days.
If you require a visa, first utilize the Visa Navigator to determine eligibility. Most likely, you will apply for an Ordinary Tourist visa (C-3-9) for leisure travel. Complete the application online or with a handwritten form, then present your application at a Korean embassy or consulate with your passport, a passport-sized photo, and any additional required documents. The application fee for a basic tourist visa is around $40, which can vary by country.
The Jeju-do Visa Exception
Jeju-do Island is a designated Special Tourist Zone, allowing many visitors from countries that typically require visas for South Korea to stay visa-free for up to 30 days. However, travelers must arrive in Jeju-do via direct flight or ship from abroad; connecting through other South Korean airports is not permitted.
Extending Your Stay in South Korea
If you’re visiting South Korea on a tourist visa, extending your stay is generally not allowed. In emergencies requiring a longer stay, you should contact the Korea Immigration Service directly. The Hi Korea website is a valuable resource for immigration information for international visitors.
Visas for Working and Studying in South Korea
With its rich culture and thriving economy, South Korea attracts numerous international students and professionals. Various visas are available for individuals wishing to study or work in South Korea. The first step is determining which specific visa suits your needs—whether you’re looking to enroll in a Korean university, teach English, or pursue other opportunities. Further details regarding eligibility and requirements can be found on the Visa Navigator.
Work and study visas generally permit stays of up to two years, with an average duration of one year being common.
Working Holidays in South Korea
South Korea offers a one-year working holiday visa for citizens from 25 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many European nations. Holders of a working holiday visa can work up to 25 hours per week while also studying the Korean language at various private or university programs. For comprehensive guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and restrictions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides access to the Working Holiday Info Center and a dedicated Working Holiday Guide.
Visas for People of Korean Descent
If you have Korean heritage, you may qualify for an overseas Korean visa, often called a gyopo visa. This option is available to individuals born in Korea who have since acquired another nationality or to those whose parents or grandparents were Korean citizens. These visas allow for initial stays of up to two years and offer considerable flexibility regarding work or study opportunities.
