Korea Tourist Visa Fee & Application Process | Complete Guide for 2025

Table of Contents

• Navigating South Korea's Entry Requirements for 2025
• K-ETA and e-Arrival Card: Your Essential Digital Passes
• Understanding Tourist Visa Applications
• Crucial Updates for Family Visas
• Financial and Document Essentials
• Exploring Visa Fee Structures
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Planning a trip to South Korea in 2025? The entry landscape is evolving, blending digital authorizations with traditional visa routes. Understanding these nuances is key to a smooth journey, whether you're a short-term tourist or planning an extended stay. This guide breaks down the essential requirements, keeping you informed on the latest updates to ensure your Korean adventure is well-prepared.

Korea Tourist Visa Fee & Application Process | Complete Guide for 2025

 

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Navigating South Korea's Entry Requirements for 2025

South Korea continues to refine its entry protocols for international visitors, with 2025 bringing several important adjustments. For many nationalities, visa-free entry remains a significant benefit for short stays of up to 90 days, primarily for tourism and business activities. This system is designed to facilitate travel and encourage more visitors to experience the country's rich culture and dynamic modern life. The government's approach balances security concerns with the economic advantages of robust tourism.

A major aspect of these requirements is the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization, commonly known as K-ETA. While many countries have enjoyed a temporary exemption from K-ETA requirements until the end of 2025, it’s crucial to note this is a finite period. Come January 1, 2026, the K-ETA will become a mandatory document for travelers from these currently exempt nations. This move signals a broader shift towards digital pre-screening for all visitors, aiming to enhance border control efficiency and passenger processing.

Beyond K-ETA, the introduction of the e-Arrival Card marks another step in digitalizing the entry process. Effective February 24, 2025, even travelers who are exempt from K-ETA will need to complete this electronic declaration. It serves as a digital customs and immigration form, which can be submitted up to three days prior to arrival. While paper versions are available at airports, the emphasis is clearly on electronic submission to streamline the arrival experience.

For individuals whose travel purpose or duration falls outside the visa-free or K-ETA arrangements, a formal tourist visa application is necessary. These applications are processed through South Korean diplomatic missions abroad. The "Visit Korea Year" initiatives, actively promoted by the government, underscore the nation's commitment to boosting tourism. The extension of K-ETA exemptions and the push for digital forms are all part of this strategy to make visiting South Korea more accessible and convenient, while also laying the groundwork for future immigration policies.

 

Entry Requirement Comparison for 2025

Requirement	Applicable Until Dec 31, 2025	Effective Jan 1, 2026
K-ETA	Exempt for many nationalities	Mandatory for most visa-free travelers
e-Arrival Card	Mandatory (from Feb 24, 2025)	Mandatory
Traditional Visa	Required for non-visa-exempt countries or specific long stays	Required for non-visa-exempt countries or specific long stays

K-ETA and e-Arrival Card: Your Essential Digital Passes

The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is becoming an increasingly central part of the entry process for many travelers. Currently, citizens from a wide array of countries can enter South Korea for short-term tourism or business without requiring a K-ETA, thanks to a temporary exemption that has been extended through December 31, 2025. This exemption is a significant benefit, simplifying immediate travel plans for many prospective visitors aiming to experience South Korea's vibrant culture and modern appeal.

However, this period of exemption is a temporary measure. The landscape shifts considerably on January 1, 2026, when the K-ETA will transition from an optional document for many to a mandatory requirement. Travelers who have become accustomed to entering without it will need to adjust their pre-travel preparations. Applying for a K-ETA involves an online process through the official K-ETA website. It is generally recommended to apply at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure to allow for processing and potential issues.

The K-ETA application fee is set at KRW 10,000 per person, which is a modest amount considering its validity. Once approved, a K-ETA is typically valid for multiple entries over a period of three years, offering flexibility for frequent travelers or those planning return visits within that timeframe. This multi-entry capability adds significant value for individuals who travel to South Korea more than once.

Complementing the K-ETA is the e-Arrival Card, which becomes mandatory for K-ETA exempt travelers starting February 24, 2025. This electronic declaration form serves as a modern replacement for paper-based immigration and customs declarations. It can be conveniently submitted online up to three days before your arrival date and comes at no charge. The aim is to expedite the immigration process upon landing, reducing queues and enhancing the overall passenger experience. Should you encounter any issues with the online submission, paper forms are still available at the airport, though the digital route is strongly encouraged.

 

K-ETA vs. e-Arrival Card

Feature	K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)	e-Arrival Card
Purpose	Pre-screening for entry authorization	Declaration of travel/health information
Mandatory Status (2025)	Exempt for many until Dec 31, 2025; Mandatory from Jan 1, 2026	Mandatory for K-ETA exempt travelers from Feb 24, 2025
Application Method	Online via official K-ETA website	Online submission (paper option available)
Fee	KRW 10,000	Free
Validity	3 years, multiple entries	Valid for current entry

Understanding Tourist Visa Applications

For travelers whose nationalities are not covered by visa-waiver agreements, or for those planning stays exceeding the typical short-term limits, a formal tourist visa application is the necessary route. The standard visa for short-term tourism and business purposes is categorized as a "C-3" visa. This category is designed to accommodate a range of travel needs, from brief sightseeing trips to short business engagements.

The application process for a tourist visa typically involves submitting an application form along with a valid passport that meets specific criteria. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into South Korea and should have sufficient blank pages for visa stamps. This ensures that immigration officials have adequate space for their endorsements during your stay.

Accompanying your application will be recent passport-sized color photographs that adhere to the specified guidelines. Proof of financial capacity is a cornerstone of any visa application, and for South Korea, this usually means providing bank statements for the past three to six months. These documents demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your trip and to cover your return journey, thereby alleviating concerns about you becoming a public charge.

The application is generally submitted to the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. In some cases, South Korea may appoint specific visa application centers or agencies to handle these submissions. Depending on your nationality and the specifics of your application, you might be required to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate. This allows immigration officers to clarify any details and assess your intentions for visiting South Korea.

It's worth noting that processing times can vary, so it's advisable to begin your visa application well in advance of your planned travel dates. The specific requirements and procedures can sometimes differ slightly depending on the applicant's nationality and the South Korean diplomatic mission handling the application, making thorough research of the official embassy or consulate website a critical step in your preparation.

 

Essential Documents for a Tourist Visa

Document Type	Details
Visa Application Form	Completed accurately and signed.
Passport	Valid for at least six months beyond entry date, with blank pages.
Photographs	Recent, passport-sized, color photos meeting specific requirements.
Proof of Financial Capacity	Bank statements (3-6 months), pay stubs, or other evidence of funds.
Proof of Residence	If applying from a country other than your home country.
Itinerary/Purpose of Visit	Flight bookings, hotel reservations, or an invitation letter if applicable.

Crucial Updates for Family Visas

For those planning to join family members residing in South Korea, significant updates to dependent family visas, specifically the F-3 category, came into effect during 2025. These changes reflect a more stringent approach to verifying family relationships and ensuring that sponsors can adequately support their dependents. The aim is to create a more structured and accountable system for family reunification.

A key requirement introduced is the mandatory apostille for vital documents such as marriage and birth certificates. An apostille is an international certification that authenticates the origin of a public document so it can be recognized in foreign countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. This process adds a layer of official verification to ensure the authenticity of these crucial family documents, preventing potential fraud or misrepresentation.

Furthermore, the financial requirements for sponsoring family members have been revised based on the size of the family unit. Applicants must now provide stronger proof of financial stability that aligns with the increased needs of supporting a larger household. This ensures that dependents will not become reliant on public assistance and that their basic needs are met by their sponsor.

Perhaps one of the most impactful changes is the restriction on visa status conversions within South Korea for dependents. Previously, it might have been possible for family members to enter on a short-term visa or visa waiver and then change their status to a dependent visa while inside the country. This is no longer allowed. Family members must now secure the appropriate dependent visa status *before* arriving in South Korea. This necessitates careful planning and application from abroad.

These updates, implemented in April and July 2025, underscore the South Korean government's effort to ensure a clear and predictable immigration process for family members. It also places a greater onus on individuals to thoroughly prepare their documentation and understand the pre-arrival requirements for family visas.

 

Key Changes in Family Visa (F-3) Requirements

Aspect	Previous Practice	New Requirements (Effective 2025)
Documentation	Standard marriage/birth certificates	Apostilled marriage and birth certificates
Financial Proof	General financial assessment	Stricter proof based on family size
Status Conversion	Visa status conversions sometimes allowed within Korea	Visa status conversion within South Korea no longer permitted for dependents

Financial and Document Essentials

When preparing your application for a South Korean visa or K-ETA, meticulous attention to documentation is paramount. For most visa applications, demonstrating sufficient financial means is a critical component. This typically involves submitting bank statements for a period of three to six months preceding your application. These statements should clearly show consistent income and an adequate balance to cover your travel expenses, including accommodation, daily living costs, and your return flight.

Beyond financial proof, your passport must meet stringent validity requirements. It needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from South Korea. Furthermore, it must contain a minimum number of blank pages, usually at least one or two, to allow for visa stamps and entry/exit endorsements by immigration officials. A passport that is nearing its expiration or lacks sufficient blank pages can lead to application rejection.

Recent passport-sized color photographs are another standard requirement. Ensure these photos meet the specific dimensions and background color guidelines provided by the South Korean embassy or consulate. Small details like wearing glasses or specific hairstyles can sometimes affect photo acceptability, so it is best to check the latest photo specifications.

For those applying for visas other than standard tourism, additional documents will be necessary. For instance, if you are traveling for business, you might need an invitation letter from a South Korean company, along with their business registration details. Students may need proof of enrollment from a Korean educational institution, and individuals visiting family might require a letter of invitation from their host, coupled with proof of their residency status in South Korea.

The e-Arrival Card, while not requiring extensive documentation, needs accurate personal details, travel information, and health declarations. It’s designed to be a quick electronic submission, but accuracy is vital to avoid any issues at immigration. For family visas, as mentioned, apostilled marriage and birth certificates are now essential, alongside proof of the sponsor's financial capacity and residential status in Korea.

 

Document Checklist Overview

Document	Key Requirements
Passport	Min. 6 months validity, blank pages
Photographs	Recent, color, passport-sized, specific guidelines
Financial Statements	3-6 months bank statements, showing sufficient funds
Proof of Travel	Flight itinerary, hotel bookings
Supporting Documents	Invitation letters, employment letters, enrollment proof, apostilled family documents (if applicable)

Exploring Visa Fee Structures

Understanding the financial outlay for your travel to South Korea is essential for planning. The fees associated with entry requirements can vary depending on the type of authorization needed and your nationality. For the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), the application fee is consistently set at KRW 10,000 per person. This fee is payable during the online application process and covers the electronic screening and authorization for your travel.

When it comes to traditional tourist visas, specifically the C-3 type for short stays, the fees are generally structured based on the duration of your intended stay. For stays of under 90 days, the standard processing fee is approximately US $40. For those planning to stay longer than 90 days under a tourist visa, the fee typically increases to around US $60. These figures serve as general guidelines, and the exact fees can fluctuate.

Several factors influence the final visa fee. International agreements between South Korea and your home country play a significant role, often based on the principle of reciprocity. This means that the fee you pay might be influenced by what your country charges South Korean citizens for similar visa types. Consequently, fees can differ substantially from one nationality to another.

Additionally, some visa application centers or appointed agents may charge their own service fees on top of the government’s visa application fee. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing the application, handling documents, and providing customer support. It is advisable to confirm the total cost with the specific application center or embassy when you begin your application process. Recent announcements indicate that some of these fees have been adjusted, with changes taking effect from June 1, 2025, and July 1, 2025, for specific regions, so checking the latest fee schedule is crucial.

It is important to remember that visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Therefore, ensuring that you meet all the eligibility criteria and have submitted all required documentation correctly can help maximize your chances of approval and avoid unnecessary financial loss.

 

Tourist Visa Fee Estimates (C-3 Type)

Visa Type	Approximate Fee (USD)	Notes
Short-Term Tourism (Under 90 days)	$40	Standard fee, subject to nationality and reciprocity.
Short-Term Tourism (Over 90 days)	$60	Standard fee for longer tourist stays, subject to nationality.
K-ETA	KRW 10,000 (approx. $8 USD)	Per person, valid for 3 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Do I need a visa if I have a passport from a country with visa-free entry to South Korea?

 

A1. Until December 31, 2025, citizens from many visa-free countries do not need a traditional visa for short stays, but they will need to complete the e-Arrival Card. Starting January 1, 2026, these travelers will be required to obtain a K-ETA before their trip.

 

Q2. What is the difference between K-ETA and a traditional visa?

 

A2. A K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, streamlining immigration screening. A traditional visa is a formal entry permit for those not eligible for visa-free entry or for longer, specific purposes.

 

Q3. How far in advance should I apply for a K-ETA?

 

A3. It is recommended to apply for a K-ETA at least 24 hours before your departure to ensure sufficient processing time.

 

Q4. Is the e-Arrival Card mandatory for all travelers?

 

A4. Starting February 24, 2025, the e-Arrival Card is mandatory for travelers who are exempt from the K-ETA requirement. K-ETA holders typically complete necessary declarations during their K-ETA application or subsequent entry procedures.

 

Q5. What documents do I need for a C-3 tourist visa?

 

A5. Typically, you will need a completed application form, a valid passport, recent photos, and proof of financial capacity (like bank statements). Additional documents may be required based on your specific situation.

 

Q6. Can I apply for a dependent family visa after arriving in South Korea?

 

A6. No, effective in 2025, visa status conversions within South Korea for dependents entering on short-term or visa waiver status are no longer allowed. You must obtain the F-3 visa before arriving.

 

Q7. What is an apostille, and why is it needed for family visas?

 

A7. An apostille is an international certification authenticating public documents. It's now required for marriage and birth certificates for dependent family visa applications to verify their legitimacy.

 

Q8. How much does a South Korean tourist visa cost?

 

A8. For stays under 90 days, it's around US $40; for stays over 90 days, it's about US $60. Fees vary by nationality and may be subject to change.

 

Q9. Are visa fees refundable if my application is denied?

 

A9. Typically, visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application.

 

Q10. When will the K-ETA exemption for certain countries end?

 

A10. The temporary exemption from K-ETA for many countries is extended until December 31, 2025. It becomes mandatory from January 1, 2026.

 

Q11. What is the validity period of an approved K-ETA?

 

A11. An approved K-ETA is generally valid for multiple entries over three years from the date of approval.

Crucial Updates for Family Visas

 

Q12. Can I submit the e-Arrival Card on the day of arrival?

 

A12. The e-Arrival Card can be submitted up to three days before arrival, but it is best to complete it as soon as possible before your flight to ensure a smoother process.

 

Q13. Where do I submit a visa application?

 

A13. Visa applications are usually submitted through the South Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence, or through authorized visa application centers.

 

Q14. What if I am a citizen of a country not on the visa-waiver list?

 

A14. If your country is not covered by visa-waiver agreements, you will need to apply for a C-3 short-term tourist visa before traveling to South Korea.

 

Q15. Are there any specific financial requirements for the F-3 visa?

 

A15. Yes, the F-3 visa now has stricter financial proof requirements that are based on the number of family members you are sponsoring.

 

Q16. How long is the K-ETA valid for?

 

A16. A K-ETA is typically valid for three years from the date of approval, allowing for multiple entries within that period.

 

Q17. What happens if my K-ETA is denied?

 

A17. If your K-ETA is denied, you may need to apply for a traditional visa at the South Korean Embassy or Consulate. Consult the embassy for guidance.

 

Q18. Can I use my old passport with a valid K-ETA?

 

A18. No, if you renew your passport, you must update your K-ETA information with your new passport details or apply for a new K-ETA for the new passport.

 

Q19. What if I enter South Korea as a tourist and decide to stay longer for work?

 

A19. You generally cannot convert a tourist visa or visa waiver status to a work visa while inside South Korea. You would typically need to depart and apply for the appropriate work visa from abroad.

 

Q20. How can I check the status of my K-ETA application?

 

A20. You can check the status of your K-ETA application on the official K-ETA website using your application details and passport information.

 

Q21. Are there any discounts for group applications for K-ETA?

 

A21. The K-ETA fee is per person, and there are generally no specific discounts for group applications. Each traveler must obtain their own K-ETA.

 

Q22. What if my travel dates change after I get a K-ETA?

 

A22. Your K-ETA is valid for three years, so changes in travel dates within that period usually do not require a new application, as long as your passport remains valid.

 

Q23. What is the processing time for a tourist visa?

 

A23. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the embassy or consulate and the applicant's nationality. It is best to apply well in advance, typically several weeks before your travel date.

 

Q24. Can minors travel to South Korea without a visa?

 

A24. Minors traveling from visa-exempt countries will need to follow the K-ETA and e-Arrival Card requirements, just like adults, starting from 2026. If a visa is required, it must be obtained for the minor.

 

Q25. What should I do if I lose my K-ETA approval notice?

 

A25. You can usually re-check your K-ETA status and retrieve the approval details through the official K-ETA website by logging in with your account or using your passport information.

 

Q26. Are there any exceptions to the apostille requirement for family visas?

 

A26. Generally, the apostille requirement is strict for marriage and birth certificates. However, it's always best to confirm with the specific South Korean embassy or consulate as there might be very specific, limited exceptions.

 

Q27. Can I apply for a K-ETA on behalf of someone else?

 

A27. Yes, you can assist someone else with their K-ETA application, but all information provided must be accurate and belong to the traveler. For group applications, one person can often apply for multiple individuals.

 

Q28. What if my passport expires within three years of my K-ETA approval?

 

A28. A K-ETA is linked to a specific passport. If your passport expires and you get a new one, you will need to apply for a new K-ETA for your new passport.

 

Q29. Does the K-ETA fee change?

 

A29. The K-ETA fee is currently set at KRW 10,000. While official announcements usually precede changes, it's always wise to check the official K-ETA website for the most current fee information.

 

Q30. Is proof of accommodation always required for a tourist visa?

 

A30. While not always mandatory, providing proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or a host's details, can strengthen your visa application by demonstrating a clear travel plan.

 

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information on South Korea's visa and entry requirements for 2025. Regulations are subject to change, and specific requirements may vary by nationality and purpose of visit. Always consult the official website of the South Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information before making travel arrangements.

Summary

Navigating South Korea's entry requirements for 2025 involves understanding the ongoing K-ETA exemptions (ending December 31, 2025) and the mandatory e-Arrival Card for K-ETA exempt travelers starting February 24, 2025. Traditional tourist visas (C-3 type) are required for those not eligible for visa-free entry. Recent updates also include stricter documentation and financial proof for family visas (F-3), including apostilled certificates and no more in-country status conversions. Be mindful of visa fees, which vary by nationality and duration of stay, and ensure all required documents are accurate and complete for a smooth travel experience.