How to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa in 2025: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Planning a trip to South Korea in 2025? From vibrant Seoul to serene Jeju Island, the country offers a stunning blend of culture, nature, and modernity. But before you can explore the land of K-dramas and kimchi, most travelers from non-visa-exempt countries need to obtain a South Korean tourist visa (C-3 visa). This guide walks you through the entire visa application process in 2025, providing real insights into what to expect — no vague summaries, just the actual steps you’ll need to follow.

Visa-Free Nationals:
Travelers from visa-waiver countries (e.g., USA, UK, most of the EU, Australia, etc.) do not need a visa for short visits (15 to 90 days, depending on nationality) but must obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before traveling.

Visa-Required Nationals:
Citizens of countries not listed under Korea's visa exemption program must apply for a C-3 short-term tourist visa. Examples include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Nigeria, and others.

If you are unsure about your visa status, check with the nearest South Korean embassy in your country for the most accurate information.

C-3-9: Tourism and leisure
This is the most common visa for sightseeing and short vacations. Valid for a stay of up to 90 days.

C-3-1: General short-term visits
Also used for tourism, but can include other purposes such as visiting friends or attending events.

In most cases, C-3-9 will be the type issued for tourism purposes.

Step 1: Check the Entry Requirements in Your Country

Contact the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country. Visa requirements and processes can differ depending on local agreements, consular arrangements, and nationality. Some embassies offer online appointments, while others still require walk-ins or physical form submission.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Mandatory Documents (Common for Most Applicants):

• Completed Visa Application Form: Download from the Korean embassy website or fill out at the consulate. Must be signed.
• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of application. Submit with at least 2 blank pages.
• Passport-Sized Photograph: White background, 3.5cm x 4.5cm, taken within the last 6 months.
• Flight Reservation (Return ticket): Not always mandatory, but highly recommended.
• Hotel Booking or Accommodation Details: Confirmed reservation showing address and dates.
• Financial Proof: Latest bank statements (last 3-6 months), balance certificate, income tax returns, and/or employment letter.
• Travel Itinerary: Day-by-day trip plan, ideally typed and printed.
• Visa Fee: Varies by nationality, usually between USD 40–70 (or local currency equivalent). Payment methods vary (some embassies accept cash only).

Additional Documents (Based on Individual Circumstances):

• Proof of employment or enrollment (students): Employment letter or student certificate.
• Business registration (for self-employed applicants)
• Invitation letter (if visiting someone in Korea)

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form Correctly

Tips:

• Use BLOCK LETTERS in English.
• Don’t leave any field blank – write “N/A” if not applicable.
• Double-check your passport number and dates.

Most embassies still require physical submission of the form.

Step 4: Book an Appointment (If Required)

Not all Korean embassies accept walk-in applications. In Australia, India, Bangladesh, and several other countries, appointments are mandatory and must be booked online via the embassy portal.

Appointment slots can fill quickly, especially during peak seasons (March–May and September–November), so book early.

Step 5: Submit Your Application in Person

At the Korean Embassy or Consulate:
Bring all your original documents and photocopies. You may be required to:

• Attend a short interview
• Provide biometric data (fingerprints)
• Answer questions about your trip, financials, or background

Third-party submissions (by agent or family member) are allowed in some countries with a letter of authorization.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee

The tourist visa fee in 2025 typically ranges from KRW 40,000–60,000 or its equivalent in your local currency. Some embassies accept only cash; others accept card or bank transfer. Always check the exact payment method before your appointment.

If you’re applying via a visa agency, an additional service charge will apply.

Step 7: Wait for Processing

Standard processing time in 2025: 5 to 15 working days, depending on your nationality, embassy workload, and visa history.

Express processing (3–5 days) is available in some locations for an additional fee.

Embassies do not always notify you when the visa is ready, so check your status using their online portal or as instructed during submission.

Step 8: Collect Your Passport or Get It Delivered

Once approved, you will receive a sticker visa on your passport or, in some cases, an e-visa printout.

Double-check the visa:

• Name spelling
• Duration of stay
• Number of entries (single/multiple)
• Validity period

Mistakes should be reported immediately for correction.

Step 9: Prepare for Entry – K-ETA Not Required for Visa Holders

Travelers holding a C-3 tourist visa do not need to apply for a K-ETA.

However, ensure that:

• You carry printed copies of hotel bookings and return flight
• You have enough funds or bank cards for the duration of stay
• Your passport and visa are valid for the travel duration

Immigration officers in South Korea can still refuse entry if they suspect fraud or insufficient documentation.

Multiple Entry Visas:
If you’ve visited South Korea more than twice in the past 5 years, or visited OECD countries frequently, you may be eligible for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 5 years.

K-ETA vs Visa:

• K-ETA is for visa-free travelers and costs about KRW 10,000
• Tourist Visa is for nationals not eligible for K-ETA

Visa Extensions:
Tourist visa extensions are not generally allowed unless due to illness or force majeure. Apply at the Korea Immigration Office if necessary.

• Be honest: False documents or misrepresentations will lead to rejection.
• Apply early: Ideally 4 weeks before your travel date.
• Keep copies: Make physical and digital backups of all documents.
• Use a visa agent if unsure or if the process feels overwhelming, especially in countries with high rejection rates.

Conclusion

Applying for a South Korea tourist visa in 2025 is straightforward if you follow the correct process and prepare your documents well in advance. The key to success lies in understanding the exact requirements of your local embassy, being transparent in your application, and planning ahead. With this detailed guide, you’re now ready to take your first step toward a memorable South Korean adventure.