When you think of travelling to Asia, South Korea might not be the first country that comes to mind. However, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s quickly becoming a popular destination for tourists worldwide. One of the essential aspects of planning your trip is understanding the visa process. That’s where the South Korean on-arrival visa comes in.
The South Korean on-arrival visa is a type of visa that you can obtain once you reach South Korea. Instead of going through the lengthy process of applying for a visa in your home country, you can get one upon arrival at the airport. I can be a convenient option for many travellers, especially those who travel spontaneously or do not have a South Korean embassy in their home country.
It’s worth noting that while the on-arrival visa can offer convenience, it also comes with its own set of requirements and procedures that you need to be aware of. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about applying for a South Korea on-arrival visa.
Check if your country supports South Korea Evisa or Visa or Visa on Arrival
| Afghanistan | visa required |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Angola | visa on arrival |
| Bahrain | visa on arrival |
| Benin | e-visa |
| Bhutan | visa required |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa required |
| Cambodia | visa on arrival |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival |
| Central African Republic | visa required |
| Chad | visa required |
| China | visa required |
| Comoros | visa on arrival |
| Congo | visa required |
| Cuba | visa required |
| Djibouti | e-visa |
| Dominican Republic | visa free |
| DR Congo | visa required |
| Egypt | visa on arrival |
| Equatorial Guinea | visa required |
| Eritrea | visa required |
| Ethiopia | visa on arrival |
| Gabon | visa on arrival |
| Ghana | visa required |
| Guinea | e-visa |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival |
| India | e-visa |
| Iran | e-visa |
| Iraq | visa required |
| Ireland | visa free |
| Ivory Coast | e-visa |
| Jamaica | e-visa |
| Jordan | visa on arrival |
| Kenya | visa on arrival |
| Kuwait | e-visa |
| Lebanon | visa on arrival |
| Liberia | visa required |
| Libya | visa required |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival |
| Malawi | visa on arrival |
| Maldives | visa on arrival |
| Mali | visa required |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mozambique | visa required |
| Myanmar | visa required |
| Namibia | visa on arrival |
| Nauru | visa required |
| Nepal | visa on arrival |
| Niger | visa required |
| Nigeria | visa on arrival |
| North Korea | visa required |
| Pakistan | visa on arrival |
| Palau | visa on arrival |
| Palestine | visa free |
| Papua New Guinea | visa on arrival |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival |
| Samoa | visa on arrival |
| Saudi Arabia | e-visa |
| Sierra Leone | visa on arrival |
| Somalia | visa on arrival |
| South Sudan | e-visa |
| Sudan | visa required |
| Syria | visa required |
| Tajikistan | visa on arrival |
| Tanzania | visa on arrival |
| Togo | visa on arrival |
| Tonga | visa on arrival |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival |
| Uganda | visa on arrival |
| United States | e-visa |
| Yemen | visa required |
| Zambia | visa on arrival |
| Zimbabwe | visa on arrival |
Eligibility for a South Korean on-arrival visa
Only some people are eligible for a South Korea on-arrival visa. There are certain conditions that you need to meet to qualify for one. First and foremost, you must be a citizen of one of the countries where South Korea has an on-arrival visa agreement. The list of these countries constantly changes, so it’s essential to check the official South Korean immigration website for the most up-to-date information.
Secondly, the purpose of your visit must be tourism or transit. If you plan to work, study, or stay in South Korea long, you must apply for a different type of visa. Additionally, you must have a return or onward ticket to prove that you intend to leave the country within the visa’s validity period.
Finally, you must be in good health and have no criminal record. South Korean immigration officials can deny entry to anyone they deem a potential public safety or health risk. Therefore, it’s important, to be honest and transparent in your application to avoid any potential issues.
Required documents for a South Korea on-arrival visa
Like any other visa application, applying for a South Korean on-arrival visa requires you to submit certain documents. The exact list of documents can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, but typically, you’ll need to provide the following:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity remaining.
- A completed and signed visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Proof of return or onward travel, such as a flight or ferry ticket.
- Proof of accommodation in South Korea, such as a hotel booking or invitation letter from a South Korean resident.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stays in South Korea, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.
Remember to bring original copies of all your documents, as photocopies may not be accepted. Also, it’s a good idea to bring extra copies of everything.
Read: How to apply for South Korea eVisa
The application process for a South Korean on-arrival visa
The application process for a South Korean on-arrival visa is relatively straightforward. Upon arriving at the airport in South Korea, you’ll need to head to the designated visa-on-arrival counter. Here, you’ll fill out an application form and submit your documents.
The immigration officer will review your application and ask questions about your trip. It’s important to answer all questions honestly and accurately. Once your application is approved, the officer will stamp your passport with the visa, and you’ll be allowed to enter the country.
Remember that approval of your visa is not guaranteed. The immigration officer has the final say, and they can deny your application for any reason. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared and have all your documents to increase your chances of approval.
Tips for a smooth application process
While the South Korean on-arrival visa application process is straightforward, a few tips can help ensure a smooth experience. First, ensure you have all your documents ready before arriving at the airport. This includes your passport and visa application form and any additional documents that might be required.
Second, arrive at the airport early. The visa-on-arrival process can take some time, especially during peak travel times. By giving yourself plenty of time, you can avoid any unnecessary stress.
Finally, be respectful and courteous to the immigration officers. They are there to help you, and a positive attitude can go a long way in making the process smoother.
South Korea on-arrival visa fees and processing time
The fees for a South Korean on-arrival visa can vary depending on your nationality. Typically, the price is around $50 to $100. It’s important to note that this fee must be paid in cash in the local currency (Korean won).
The processing time for a South Korean on-arrival visa is usually quite quick. You should receive your visa within an hour of submitting your application. However, during busy periods, the processing time can be longer. Therefore, it’s a good idea to allow plenty of time for this process when planning your arrival in South Korea.
South Korea on arrival visa extension
You might need to extend your South Korea on-arrival visa in certain situations. This could be due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical emergency or flight cancellation. In these cases, you can apply for a visa extension at a local immigration office in South Korea.
The process for extending your visa is similar to the initial application process. You must fill out an application form and provide supporting documents, such as proof of your ongoing situation. The fee for a visa extension is typically the same as the initial visa fee.
It’s important to note that visa extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the immigration officer. Therefore, it’s best to avoid relying on a visa extension unless necessary.
Advantages and disadvantages of a South Korean on-arrival visa
The South Korean on-arrival visa offers several advantages. It’s convenient, eliminating the need to apply for a visa before your trip. It’s also usually quicker than the pre-arrival visa process, allowing you to change your travel plans at the last minute.
However, the on-arrival visa also has some disadvantages. It’s typically more expensive than a pre-arrival visa, and there’s always the risk that your application could be denied upon arrival. Moreover, the on-arrival visa is only valid for a short period, usually 30 days, which may need more for some travellers.
Frequently asked questions about a South Korean on-arrival visa
Lastly, let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about the South Korean on-arrival visa.
Can I work in South Korea on an on-arrival visa?
No, the on-arrival visa is only for tourism or transit purposes. If you want to work in South Korea, you must apply for a work visa.
Can I study in South Korea on an on-arrival visa?
No, the on-arrival visa does not permit you to study in South Korea. If you want to study in South Korea, you must apply for a student visa.
Can I extend my South Korea on-arrival visa?
Yes, in certain circumstances, you can apply for a visa extension. However, extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the immigration officer.
Do I need to pay for the South Korea on-arrival visa in cash?
The visa fee must be paid in cash in the local currency (Korean won).
In conclusion, a South Korean on-arrival visa can be a convenient and flexible option for travellers planning a short trip to the country. However, knowing the disadvantages and ensuring you meet all the eligibility requirements is also important.
Read: How to apply and get Turkey Visa on Arrival
Before you decide whether the on-arrival visa is the right choice for you, take the time to research the visa options, consider your travel plans, and weigh the pros and cons. And remember, no matter which visa you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy your trip and make the most of your time in South Korea!