Pondering about having the cherry blossoms of Seoul, having shopping excursions in Myeongdong, or immersing one self in the locations of K-dramas? South Korea is a wonderful destination this time of year, and as Indian passport holders, it’s rather simple to acquire a visa so long as one is aware of what is ahead. Here is a useful guide to getting a South Korea visa from India, including types of visas, documents required, processing time, charges, and helpful tips to make it easier.
Do Indians Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea?
It is necessary for Indian passport holders to obtain a visa in order to travel to South Korea. Whether you are traveling for tourism, a business meeting, or a K-pop concert visit, you need to apply for a visa ahead of time.
Types of Visas Available
There are various visas available based on your plans of travel:
- Short-Term Single Entry Visa (for stays up to 90 days)
- Long-Term Single Entry Visa (for stays more than 90 days)
- Multiple Entry Visa (for frequent travellers)
Documents Required for a South Korea Tourist Visa
You will need the following documents in order to apply for a tourist visa:
- Original Passport with validity of more than 6 months.
- Two color passport-sized recent photographs.
- Completely filled Online Visa application form.
- Occupation or Employment Proof (for people who are working). A letter from your employer should have contact details.
- One-year salary slip.
- Photocopy of Last 2 years Income Tax Return (ITR) and PAN Card. (If not possible to submit ITR, attach a letter stating why.)
- If you are a businessman, submit a 3 years company Income Tax Return and PAN Card. In case of a proprietor, submit personal ITR for 3 years.
- Recent bank statement for 6 months (original or photocopy, with a bank’s stamp).
- Copy of company registration.
- Business profile information (if necessary).
- Proof of connection between sponsor and applicant (in case somebody is sponsoring your trip).
- Health Condition Form.
- Return air tickets that are confirmed.
- Hotel reservations
How to Apply for a South Korea Visa From India
You can drop your documents through VFS Global offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Otherwise, you may apply through Korea Visa Application Centres (KVAC) in Chennai and Bengaluru. When you drop off your passport, you will receive notification when your passport is available for pickup.
The payment for visa processing is made directly at the KVAC. The normal processing time is 10 working days, but longer processing times may occur during high travel seasons.
