South Korea maintains a visa waiver agreement list as well as a designated visa-free entrance list, with nations not included on either list needing a visa to enter the country. Countries not included on either list require a visa to enter the country. Aside from that, foreigners who desire to participate or work in certain activities in the nation such as diplomatic work or gainful employment, study or residency must first apply for the necessary visa before participating in the activity in the country.
Who needs a visa to South Korea?
It is advised for travellers to check the South Korean Embassy page in regards to which Countries require a visa.
Entry into South Korea
Entry requirements for Korea are subject to change at any time, so all travellers are advised to confirm entry requirements with Korean authorities prior to departure. The websites of the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) and Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), as well as the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Ireland, have current information.
There is currently no necessity to take a COVID-19 test prior to or after entering Korea. However, the Korean government recommends that all travellers use the Q-Code system to register their travel plans and health status in order to streamline the arrival procedure. Those who acquire a positive COVID-19 test result during their stay in Korea must remain under quarantine. Short-term international visitors are required to undergo quarantine at a government facility at their own expense. Koreans and long-term residents are permitted to observe quarantine at home.
Currently, citizens of 66 visa-exempt nations and 46 visa-free nations, including Ireland, are required to get an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before entering Korea. This only applies to people who enter Korea under a visa exemption and not to those who possess a visa. If you have a valid visa, you do not need a K-ETA to enter Korea.
Requirements to apply for a South Korea Visa
You need:
Form for Visa Application (electronic form on the Visa Portal).
Images of scanned passport pages.
Digital Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm).
Fee (credit card for e-Payment) (credit card for e-Payment).
Documents required for each status of stay.
Processing Time For South Korea Visas
If you were advised otherwise by the Visa Department at the time of submission, the processing time is approximately 12 to 15 business days after submission of ALL documents. Please check your visa status on or after the estimated date below.
Appointment Waiting Times
Appointment times can vary depending on where you reside and weather they are necessary.
Who Can Visit South Korea Without a Visa?
It is advised you check the Embassy page to see if you require a visa to South Korea.
South Korea Visa Types
The types of visas available in South Korea are as follows:
- Exempt from Visa (B-1) Tourist / Transit (General)
- Tourist / Transit (Jeju)
- Short-Term General
- Group Travel
- Business Visitor (General)
- Visitor on Business (Agreement) (C-3-5) Visitor on Business (Sponsored).
What To Do If Your South Korea Visa is Refused?
Ensure that you have a letter addressed to the Consul, and that you are certain that the reason for denial is invalid. Please feel free to include supporting documentation. If not, you may retry after six months. Ensure that your documents are comprehensive, verifiable, and genuine.
People Also Asked...
Visas are valid for three months after issuance. This means that you must enter Korea within three months of the visa’s issuance or it will expire. On the other hand, the term of stay mentioned on the Visa Grant Notice represents the permitted length of stay. The length of stay will begin to accrue on the date of entry.
Applicants for a South Korean visa should be aware that obtaining one may not be simple. The visa requirements are quite stringent, and the application process can be complicated, as there are a variety of ways to apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances. The costs are the most straightforward aspect of Korean visas.
The Korean visa interview is based on the applicant’s provided documents, so you only need to read the article below to grasp the profile’s content and how to respond with the greatest confidence.