South Korean visa resources
How to Apply for a South Korean Visa
The steps for applying for a Korean visa or entry authorization, from choosing the right category to submission at a mission or online.
Important
Most Korean visas are applied for before travel at a Korean embassy or consulate, or through the government online systems. First identify the correct visa category for your purpose of stay (for example C-3 for short visits, E-7 for skilled work, D-2 for study, F-6 for marriage to a Korean national), because each category has its own document set and conditions.
Applications are lodged in several ways depending on the route: in person or through an accredited visa application centre at a Korean diplomatic mission; online for eligible applicants through the Korea Visa Portal (visa.go.kr); and, for changes of status, extensions and alien registration once inside Korea, through HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) and local immigration offices. Visa-free and visa-waiver travellers generally use the K-ETA system instead of a visa.
After submission the mission or immigration office examines the application, may request additional documents or an interview, and issues either a visa label, an e-visa confirmation to print, or a visa issuance number. Foreign nationals staying beyond 90 days must complete alien registration at a local immigration office after arrival.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.