For Indian passport holders, the visa process is relatively straightforward — as long as you are well-prepared. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a South Korea visa from India, including types of visas, necessary documents, the application process, and helpful tips to ensure a smooth journey.
Do Indians Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea?
Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to South Korea. Whether you’re planning a vacation, attending a business meeting, visiting family, or fulfilling a lifelong dream of seeing your favorite K-pop band live, a valid visa is essential. Fortunately, with the right preparation, the process is not too complicated.
Types of South Korea Visas Available for Indians
- Depending on the purpose of your visit, there are different types of visas you can apply for:
- Short-Term Single Entry Visa: Ideal for tourists or business travelers who plan to stay in South Korea for up to 90 days.
- Long-Term Single Entry Visa: For those intending to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days, such as for work, study, or long-term visits.
- Multiple Entry Visa: Suitable for frequent travelers to South Korea, allowing multiple visits within a specified period without reapplying for a visa each time.
Note: Travelers who have previously visited Korea multiple times or have valid visas from countries like the US, Canada, or Schengen nations may be eligible for multiple-entry visas more easily.
Documents Required for a South Korea Tourist Visa
The South Korean authorities require several documents to process your visa application. Here's a checklist you should prepare carefully:
1. Original Passport:
Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of travel and have at least two blank pages.
2. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs:
Two colored photographs (size 35mm x 45mm) with a white background.
3. Completed Visa Application Form:
Fill out the South Korea visa application form online and print it for submission.
4. Employment Proof:
If employed, provide an employment certificate or letter from your company mentioning your position, salary, and leave approval.
Include the last one-year salary slips.
5. Financial Proof:
Photocopies of the last two years’ Income Tax Returns (ITR) and a copy of your PAN card.
If you are unable to submit ITR, attach a letter explaining the reason.
6. Business Documents (if self-employed):
3 years of company’s ITR, business registration certificate, and business profile.
7. Bank Statements:
Original or photocopied personal bank statements from the last six months with a bank stamp.
8. Travel Itinerary:
Confirmed return flight tickets and hotel reservations.
9. Sponsor Documents (if applicable):
Proof of relationship and financial documents of the sponsor.
10. Health Declaration Form:
A form confirming your current health condition, especially post-pandemic, is often required.
Important Tip: Ensure that all documents are clear, genuine, and well-organized to avoid unnecessary delays.
How to Apply for a South Korea Visa from India
The visa application process for Indians is quite systematic:
1. Choose the Right Visa Type:
Identify whether you need a tourist, business, or other type of visa.
2. Prepare Your Documents:
Collect all the necessary documents mentioned above.
3. Submit Your Application:
You can submit your documents through VFS Global centers located in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Alternatively, you can apply through Korea Visa Application Centres (KVAC) in Chennai and Bengaluru.
At the center, you will submit your documents, your passport, and pay the visa fees directly.
4. Track Your Application:
Once submitted, you can track your application status online or through SMS updates provided by VFS or KVAC.
5. Receive Your Passport:
After approval, you will be notified to collect your passport. Make sure to check the visa sticker for any errors.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
Visa Fees:
Short-Term Single Entry Visa: Approximately ₹2,800–₹3,500.
Multiple Entry Visa: Slightly higher fees depending on the validity.
Service charges by VFS Global or KVAC are extra.
Processing Time:
Standard processing time is around 10 working days.
However, during peak seasons (like summer vacations and holiday seasons), it may take longer, so plan accordingly.
Useful Tips for a Smooth Visa Application
- Apply Early: Start your visa process at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date.
- Financial Stability: Ensure you have sufficient funds in your bank account. Ideally, a balance of ₹1.5 to ₹2 lakh is considered safe.
- Accuracy Matters: Fill out your application form carefully. Even minor mistakes can lead to delays or rejection.
- Flight and Hotel Bookings: Book fully refundable tickets and accommodations wherever possible, in case your plans change.
- Clear Travel Purpose: Your travel itinerary should match your purpose of visit clearly.
Visiting South Korea can be a life-changing experience. Whether you’re wandering through the trendy streets of Seoul, savoring delicious Korean barbecue, or exploring the scenic countryside, it promises unforgettable memories.