PROCEDURE TO APPLY FOR SOUTH KOREAN TOURIST VISA?

INTRODUCTION

South Korea is a destination that caters to all kinds of travellers. History enthusiasts can explore the ancient palaces of Seoul, such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, which offer a glimpse into the country’s regal past.

For those seeking modern attractions, the bustling streets of Myeongdong and the high-tech district of Gangnam provide endless shopping and entertainment options.

Nature lovers can escape to Jeju Island, known for its stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and the serene Hallasan National Park.

Planning a trip to South Korea is an exciting endeavor, as this vibrant country offers a blend of rich history, modern marvels, and breathtaking natural beauty. Before immersing in all that South Korea has to offer, it’s essential to navigate the visa application process.

Applying for a South Korean tourist visa might seem challenging, but with the right guidance, it becomes a manageable and straightforward task.

South Korea offers various types of visa to Indian citizen like student, business, tourist visa, etc.  However, for Indian tourists, the following visas are relevant – 

1. Ordinary Tourist Visa (C-3-9)– Issued to a person who plans to visit Korea for travel for holidays or leisure for a period of 30 days.
2. Group Tourist Visa (C-3-2)– Issued to a person or group who plans to visit Korea for travel, or small-scale cross-border trading, guaranteed by a travel agency.
   
   

APPLICATION PROCESS FOR SOUTH KOREA TOURIST VISA

Step 1: Determine The Visa Type

Identify the type of visa to apply for, get the documents required for the visa in order. If our documents are not in English, translate them before applying for the Korean visa.

Step 2: Get Started With South Korean Visa Application

Fill out the online visa application form and print it. It needs to be together with the documents required for the Visa category chosen for submission at the Korean Embassy/Consulate.

NOTE

There is no need to book an appointment with the Korea visa application centre in India. Anyone can directly walk-in and submit our application.

Step 3: Visit the Korea Visa Application Centre

Submit the completed visa application form at the visa application center in person or through a representative. Visa application centres in India have specific working hours from Monday to Friday. In Kolkata and New Delhi, the centres operate from 9 AM to 1 PM. In Chennai, the submission hours for individuals are from 9 AM to 1 PM, while passport retrieval is available from 9 AM to 3 PM. Similarly, in Bengaluru, individuals can submit their applications between 9 AM and 1 PM, and retrieve their passports from 9 AM to 3 PM.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees

After completing application, the next step involves paying the visa application fee. Download the form, print it, and bring it to the Korea Visa Application Center. It will be required to pay both the visa fee and service charges at the center.

Step 5: Track the Application

Then an email shall be received once the decision has been returned to the visa application center. If accessing email is inconvenient or preference is more detailed tracking, option to receive updates via SMS directly to our phone is also available.

Additionally, visa application status can also be monitored online. Simply utilise the reference number provided on the invoice or receipt issued by the Korea visa application center, along with last name, to access this service.

Step 6: Collect the Passport

Once a decision has been reached on visa application, the option to retrieve your passport directly from the visa application centre or opt for delivery by courier service, including an additional fee.

For in-person collection, remember to carry the receipt issued by the visa application centre along with a valid form of government identification. If circumstances permit, one can also authorise a representative to collect passport on their behalf. They must present a signed letter of authorization, the receipt provided by the visa application center, and a government identification card.

SOUTH KOREA TOURIST VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIANS

MANDATORY DOCUMENTS

To apply for a South Korean tourist visa, one needs to prepare several important documents. Start with the visa application form, which must be filled out completely and signed. Passport is crucial; it should be original with at least six months of validity remaining, and if passport is old, include that as well. A recent photograph is required, featuring an 80% face close-up on a white background, with dimensions of 35 x 45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm).

Financial proof is essential, so include our original personal bank statement for the last six months, showing a minimum balance of ₹70,000 per person. Additionally, attach your latest three years of Income Tax Returns. A cover letter addressed to the Embassy or Consulate General of South Korea is also needed. This letter should contain your passport details, work profile, purpose of travel, stay details, travel dates, expense coverage, home address, and mobile number.

Travel itinerary must outline day-to-day plans for the entire stay in South Korea. Ensure about confirmed refundable hotel bookings covering your entire stay and onward and return refundable flight tickets. If applying in New Delhi, a need to submit a Health Declaration Form is necessary.

 Supporting Documents:

For those who are employed, it’s necessary to obtain a leave approval letter or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. Additionally, provide the last three months’ salary slips, stamped with the company seal and signature. Applicants from New Delhi are required to submit one year’s worth of salary slips.

If self-employed, business registration documents needs to presented, which can include the Gumasta Licence (Shop & Establishment Licence) or a GST certificate.

Students must provide a leave sanction letter from their school or college on official letterhead, along with a copy of their school or college ID. These documents help demonstrate your ties to your home country and the legitimacy of your travel plans.

 

SOUTH KOREA TOURIST VISA PROCESSING TIME

The South Korea tourist visa processing time for Indian citizens can vary depending on factors such as the type of visa and the current workload at the embassy or consulate. Typically, it may take anywhere from 10 to 12 working days for the visa to be processed after the appointment.

 

VALIDITY AND DURATION FOR SOUTH KOREA TOURIST VISA

The South Korea tourist visa for Indians is a single-entry e-visa valid for 90 days which allows its holder to stay in the country for up to 30 days. It’s essential to check the details provided by the South Korean embassy or consulate where you apply for the visa, as they will specify the exact validity period and any conditions attached to the visa.

 

HOW TO CHECK THE STATUS OF A SOUTH KOREAN TOURIST VISA APPLICATION FOR INDIANS?

1. Visit the official website of the South Korean government.
2. Select Electronic Visa (Individual) or Electronic Visa (Group) or Visa Application Centre.
3. Input application number, passport number, date of birth, and name.
4. Click on ‘Search’.

COMMON REASONS FOR SOUTH KOREA TOURIST VISA REJECTIONS FOR INDIANS

When applying for a Korean visa, knowing what could potentially lead to denial is crucial for strengthening our application and boosting the likelihood of getting approved. Here are some important considerations:

1. Lack of Proper Documentation: Submitting incorrect or misleading information can cause application to be immediately declined and may also affect future attempts. All Korean tourist visa documents for Indians that we submit must be authentic, completed, and satisfactory.
2. Not Enough Proof of Financial Stability: It’s important to show a bank balance of at least the amount that could cover your travel expenses and any emergencies that might arise.
3. Questionable Travel Record: A history of overstaying visas in other countries could be seen as a red flag, suggesting a risk of not adhering to Korea’s visa regulations.
4. Intentions Under Scrutiny: Not being able to convincingly explain the reason for your visit and its consistency with the planned activities might arouse suspicion. 

HOW WE CAN HELP?

• Our team assists with the preparation and submission of necessary documents and application forms which are required to get the desired visa type.
•  We help in determining and guiding all the factors and compliances that are required in the process of obtaining a visa.
•  Our firm provides support in tracking the application status and addressing any issues related to visa.