The SPOT.ph Guide to Applying for a Korean Visa

(SPOT.ph) South Korea has become an enticing travel destination for people around the world. Visit Nami Island, take in the scenic view from Mount Seorak, or walk around the Gyeongbokgung Palace. But before you get the chance to explore the Land of the Morning Calm, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to know about applying for a Korean visa.

Update: Walk-ins are already allowed at the new Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in BGC.

Also read:
The SPOT.ph Guide to Applying for a U.S. Visa
The SPOT.ph Guide to Applying for a Japanese Visa
The SPOT.ph Guide to Applying for a Canadian Visa

Here’s how to apply for a Korean visa if you're a Philippine passport holder:

Types of Visas

South Korea offers different types of visas, each with its specific requirements and purposes. Some of these cater to students, business travelers, and family members of South Korean citizens or residents, among others.

Diplomatic/Official (A)

• Diplomatic(A-1). For the diplomats and their families.
• Official (A-2). This type is for officials of an international organization or foreign government and their families.
• Agreement (A-3)

Visa Exemption (B)

• Visa Waiver (B-1). Visa waiver agreement that requires an electronic travel authorization known as K-ETA.
• Tourist pass (B-2)

Non-profit short-term (C)

• Temporary (C-1)
• Short-term commercial (C-2)
• Short-term comprehensive (C-3). For tourism and other related concerns.
• Short-term employment (C-4)

Long-term stay (D)

The types under this category are further classified based on the intent of the applicant (profit, non-profit, and training):

• Culture and Arts (D-1). Non-profit.
• Education (D-2). Non-profit.
• Technical Training (D-3). Training.
• General training (D-4). This is for visa applicants who will undergo training, such as Korean language training.
• Interview (D-5). Profit.
• Religion (D-6). Non-profit.
• Hosting (D-7). Profit.
• Corporate Investment (D-8). Profit.
• Trade Management (D-9). Profit.
• Job Search (D-10). May be classified into profit and non-profit. The profit type is further divided into job search and technology startup.

Employment (E, H)

• Professor (E-1)
• Teaching (E-2)
• Research (E-3)
• Technology (E-4)
• Profession (E-5). The professions that need specific qualifications fall under this category. Some examples are lawyers,  doctors, airline pilots, and ship captains.
• Arts and entertainment (E-6). Further divided into sports, hospitality, and arts and entertainment.
• Specific Activities (E-7). Further divided into skilled labor, semi-professional, and professional types.
• Seasonal work (E-8)
• Non-specialized employment (E-9). Includes agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.
• Seafarer (E-10)
• Tourism Employment (H-1)
• Visiting employment (H-2)

Residence (F)

Aside from the classifications below, residence visas are segregated based on the presence or absence of work restrictions.

• Visiting Cohabitation (F-1)
• Residence (F-2). Those who are related to raising children, activities with high investment, permanent family members, real estate investment can be classified under this category.
• Accompanying family members (F-3)
• Overseas Compatriots (F-4)
• Permanent resident (F-5). This is given to permanent residents. Every 10 years, you have to renew your permanent residence card. Residents are eligible for social welfare benefits, such as state subsidies, national pension, and health insurance.
• Marriage Immigrant (F-6). This is issued to someone who is married to a Korean citizen.

Requirements for a Korean Visa

While the exact requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, here are some common prerequisites:

• Valid Passport. It should have a validity of at least six months beyond your planned stay.
• Application Form. You may download a copy from their official website.
• Passport-sized Photograph. Attach a recent, colored passport-sized photograph that meets the specified criteria indicated on the website.
• Proof of Travel Itinerary. Provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your planned dates of entry and departure, accommodation reservations, and a list of places you plan to visit.
• Financial Documentation. Present proof of financial capability to cover your expenses during your stay in South Korea. This typically includes bank statements for the past three to six months and your payslip, among other similar documents. Alternatively, you may provide a bank certificate or proof of sponsorship if someone else is financially supporting your visit.
• Travel Insurance. Having travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation is highly recommended. Provide a copy of your insurance policy indicating coverage and validity.
• Employment Documentation (if applicable). If you are employed, include documents such as an employment certificate and a leave letter from your employer. These help establish your ties to your home country and your intention to return after your visit.

Application Process

The Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) is now responsible for managing all visa-related activities instead of the South Korean embassy. Follow the guidelines and requirements to ensure a smooth application process.

1. Get a copy and fill out the application form. Provide all the required information, including your personal details, purpose of visit, travel itinerary, and contact information.
2. Gather the required documents. Collect all the necessary documents according to the specific requirements of the visa category you are applying for.
3. Pay the visa fee. Check the official website of the Embassy or Consulate for the current visa fee amount and payment methods. Prepare the exact fee in the accepted currency and pay it as per the instructions provided. Keep the receipt as proof of payment in case you need it during the application submission. As of August 2023, payment is P900 regardless of visa type.
4. Go to KVAC or designated travel agencies. Since the opening of (Korea Visa Application Center) in BGC last August 14, 2023, walk-ins are already accepted at KVAC during weekdays (read: no online appointment needed). It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m but is closed on Korean consulate holidays and Philippine holidays.
5. Submit the requirements. Bring your completed application form, supporting documents, passport, and payment receipt. Present your documents to the visa officer and answer any additional questions they may have.
6. Wait for processing. The processing time typically takes around seven to eight working days. Once the already processed your application, you will receive a text message from them.
7. Collect your passport and visa. Once the processing is complete, collect your passport where you lodged your application. If your visa application is approved, your passport will contain the visa sticker. Inspect the visa details and ensure they are correct before leaving the office. In case of visa denial, they will provide a reason for the refusal. You may file for a re-appeal if this is the case.
8. Plan your trip. Make necessary arrangements for flights, accommodations, and activities based on your approved visa type and duration of stay.

Additional Notes

Extending your stay in South Korea is possible, but you will need to apply for an extension at the local immigration office before your current visa expires. You need to apply for the extension at least four months before the expiration date. The requirements for renewal include your passport, processing fee payment, foreign registration card, and completed application form.

Planning a trip to South Korea requires a good understanding of the visa application process. Remember to carefully review the specific requirements for the visa you are applying for and submit your application well in advance. If everything goes well, you'll soon find yourself exploring the captivating beauty of South Korea and immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage.

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