Yes, Indian passport holders must apply for a visa before visiting South Korea.
There’s no visa-on-arrival option, except in very limited transit cases.
However, Indians can access the Transit Tourism Program at Incheon Airport for short guided city tours.
Choosing the Right Visa Type
South Korea offers several visa types based on the purpose of your visit:
- Tourist Visa (C-3-9): for sightseeing, short-term travel (up to 90 days)
- Business Visa (C-3-1 or C-3-4): for short visits, conferences, or corporate trips
- Student Visa (D-2): for long-term educational courses
- Work Visa (E-series): for employment and contract-based jobs
- Other types: Journalist, Medical, Dependent, and more
Visa Fees and Processing
In India (via VFS Global):
- Short-term single entry (up to 90 days): ₹3,400
- Long-term single entry (more than 90 days): ₹5,100
- Multiple-entry visa: ₹7,650
- Express processing (optional): ₹2,100–₹2,800 extra
- Courier service: ₹550 (optional)
- Photo booth: ₹150 (optional)
- Photocopy service: ₹2 per copy
- SMS tracking service: ₹80 (optional)
In South Korea (fee in KRW):
- Tourist Visa (1 month–1 year): approx. 154,970 KRW (~₹9,000)
- Tourist Visa (2–5 years): approx. 299,770 KRW
- Business Visa: 183,970 KRW
- Student or Journalist Visa: ~126,070 KRW
- Transit Visa: ~39,170 KRW
Important: All visa application fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process (From India):
- Determine the right visa category based on your purpose.
- Visit the VFS Global website and download the visa application form.
- Fill out the form correctly and honestly.
- Gather all required documents (list given below).
- Schedule an appointment with the nearest VFS Global centre.
- Attend the appointment with documents, pay your fees, and provide biometrics.
- Opt for SMS or courier tracking if needed.
- Wait for processing (usually 10–15 working days, may extend to 25).
Required Documents for Indian Applicants
- Valid passport (6 months validity + 2 blank pages)
- Duly filled visa application form
- Recent passport-size photo (see below for photo specs)
- Confirmed flight ticket and hotel reservations
- Bank statement or salary slips (last 6 months)
- Cover letter detailing your trip and purpose
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Sponsor documents (if being hosted)
- Employment/student ID proof (if applicable)
Photo Requirements
- Size: 35×45 mm (or 2×2 inches approx.)
- White background, recent (within 6 months)
- Face must cover 70–80% of the photo
- Neutral expression, no glasses
- Clear lighting, no shadows
- No headwear unless for religious purposes
Photos can be clicked at VFS Global for a nominal charge (₹150 for 4 photos).
Extra Services (Optional):
- Express processing: for faster results, costs more
- SMS updates: helps you track your application
- Courier delivery: avoid returning to pick up passport
- Photo & copy services: available at most centres
Refund & Cancellation Policy
Visa fees are non-refundable under any condition.
Optional services like courier or SMS may have different refund terms—check directly at VFS if you cancel in advance.
Overstay Penalties in South Korea
- Less than 1 month: 50,000 KRW per day
- 1–3 months: up to 3,000,000 KRW
- 3–12 months: approx. 7,000,000 KRW
- 1–5 years: 20,000,000 KRW or more
Unpaid fines can result in a future travel ban, deportation, or arrest.
Smart Tips to Increase Your Visa Approval Chances
- Apply at least 3–4 weeks in advance
- Follow the exact photo requirements
- Double-check your documents for consistency
- Ensure your bank statement has sufficient balance
- Avoid errors or mismatches in form and documents
- Write a clear and concise cover letter
- Opt for SMS updates for peace of mind
Tracking Your Visa Application
You can track your application online through VFS Global’s website using your reference number.
Once approved, collect your passport or wait for courier delivery (if chosen).
Securing a South Korea visa for Indian citizens is fairly straightforward if you are well-prepared.
From choosing the correct visa type to submitting proper documents and understanding the photo and fee guidelines, every step matters.