Can I get a visa on arrival in South Korea?

No, South Korea does not offer visas on arrival. You must have K-ETA approval or a pre-approved visa before boarding your flight.

How long is a Korean tourist visa valid?

Tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days from entry. K-ETA allows multiple entries for 2 years but each stay is limited to 90 days.

Can I extend my tourist visa in South Korea?

Tourist visa extensions are rarely approved and only for emergencies. Plan to exit and re-enter if you need more time, or apply for a different visa type.

Do I need an invitation letter for a tourist visa?

No invitation letter needed for tourism. Only required if visiting friends/family or for business purposes. Hotel reservations are sufficient for tourist applications.

How to Get a Visa for South Korea

Most travelers need a visa for South Korea unless you're from a visa-exempt country (like US, Canada, EU, Australia). Apply online through K-ETA for short visits or at a Korean consulate for longer stays. Processing takes 3-10 business days and costs $10-60 depending on your nationality and visa type.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens from 112 countries including US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and Japan can visit visa-free for 30-90 days. Citizens from China, India, Russia, and most African countries need a visa. Check the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for your specific country.
Choose your application method. For visa-exempt countries: Apply for K-ETA (electronic travel authorization) online at k-eta.go.kr. For visa-required countries: Apply at the nearest Korean consulate or embassy in person or by mail. Some consulates accept online applications.
Gather required documents. K-ETA: passport, photo, itinerary, accommodation details. Consulate visa: passport (valid 6+ months), application form, passport photo, flight itinerary, hotel reservations, bank statements (last 3 months), invitation letter (if visiting someone), employment verification letter.
Complete the application. K-ETA: Fill out online form, upload documents, pay $10 USD. Consulate: Complete application form, schedule appointment if required, submit documents with fees. Double-check all information matches your passport exactly.
Pay fees and wait. K-ETA: $10 USD, processed within 72 hours. Tourist visa: $40-60 USD depending on nationality, processed in 3-10 business days. Business visa: $60-100 USD. Track your application status online if available.
Receive and verify approval. K-ETA approval arrives by email - print a copy to carry. Visa approval: collect passport in person or by mail. Check all details are correct before traveling. K-ETA is valid for 2 years, tourist visas typically 90 days.

Can I get a visa on arrival in South Korea?: No, South Korea does not offer visas on arrival. You must have K-ETA approval or a pre-approved visa before boarding your flight.
How long is a Korean tourist visa valid?: Tourist visas are typically valid for 90 days from entry. K-ETA allows multiple entries for 2 years but each stay is limited to 90 days.
Can I extend my tourist visa in South Korea?: Tourist visa extensions are rarely approved and only for emergencies. Plan to exit and re-enter if you need more time, or apply for a different visa type.
Do I need an invitation letter for a tourist visa?: No invitation letter needed for tourism. Only required if visiting friends/family or for business purposes. Hotel reservations are sufficient for tourist applications.