View of a far away temple surrounded by trees during daytime.

South Korea Visa Processing Time - What You Need To Know

Last Updated : 03 May 2024

30-Second Summary

The South Korea visa processing time for each visa looks like this:

  • South Korean Tourist Visa: 1-2 weeks.

  • South Korean Student Visa: 5-10 days.

  • South Korean Work Visa: 2 weeks to 2 months.

  • South Korean Business Visa: 15 days.

  • South Korean Family Visa: 1-2 weeks.

Source:https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10102#thishttps://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10102#this

South Korea Visa Types and Factors Affecting Processing Time

South Korea Tourist Visa | 1-2 Weeks

A Tourist Visa is for Indians who intend to visit South Korea for tourism purposes. The South Korean tourist visa allows you to stay in South Korea for up to 90 days. You are not permitted to work or participate in any other paid activities. South Korea Tourist Visa processing time can be between 1 to 2 weeks. 

Tourist visas issued by the South Korean embassy are typically for short stays and can be issued as single or multiple-entry visas. If you wish to extend your stay in South Korea, you can apply for an extension before your visa expires.

South Korea Student Visa D-2 | 5-10 Days

Indian students planning to study at a recognized educational institution in South Korea can apply for a student visa. It can be a short-term visa that is less than 90 days, or a long-term visa that exceeds 90 days. South Korea Visa processing time is 5-10 days if the application process goes smoothly. 

To apply for a student visa (D-2) for South Korea, you require a lot of documentation, such as a Certificate of Admission or Proof of Final Academic Credentials. Please note that collecting these documents may take time, and additional requirements might be requested during the South Korea visa processing time.

South Korea Work Visa | 2 weeks - 2 months

Different categories of work visas are available for Indian citizens depending on their professional qualifications and job offers. The South Korean work visa processing time can vary depending on the visa type, ranging from approximately two weeks to two months. Some common work visas include:

  • E-1 Visa: For professors, researchers, or foreign language lecturers.

  • E-2 Visa: For English teachers.

South Korea Business Visa | 15 Days

This visa is for Indian individuals who need to travel to South Korea for business-related activities, such as attending meetings or signing contracts. It allows for a short-term stay. South Korea visa processing time is a minimum of 15 working days. 

If there is incomplete documentation, request for additional documentation or high application volumes, the South Korea Visa processing time may exceed this 15-day timeframe.

South Korea Family Visa | 1-2 weeks

Indian individuals who are family members of South Korean citizens or long-term residents may apply for a family visa, allowing them to join their family members in South Korea. The South Korea visa processing time may be around 1-2 weeks, depending on the application volume. This family visit visa is for more than 90 days.

Step-by-Step Visa Application Timeline

Gathering Documents | 1 Week

First is identifying the visa type you want to apply for and then researching which documents you require. When submitting your South Korea visa application, you will be required to provide various supporting documents. The specific requirements for South Korea visas can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Some general documentation includes South Korea ETA, valid passport, passport-sized photos, return flight tickets and proof of sufficient funds. 

It is important to allocate sufficient time to gather all the additional documents needed for your visa application. Applying for a South Korea visa with incomplete documents may lead to your application being considered incomplete or rejected.

Complete Application | 1 Day

After determining your visa type and collecting the required documents, decide if you are completing the application online or at the Embassy.

If online: Download the application form from the website of the Korea Visa portal. Upload a digital passport photo and submit the visa application form online.

At an Embassy: Indians can go to the Embassy and complete their forms, as long as you take the required documents with you. The South Korean Embassy in India is located in New Delhi.

Pay Visa Fees | 30 minutes

Visa fees may differ based on factors like international agreements and common practices. Additionally, when making visa fee payments online through the portal, there might be additional charges to consider. 

It is best to contact your embassy and check your visa fees as they might change, however. a guideline you can follow: For a single-entry visa with a validity of up to ninety days, the approximate fee is ₹ 2800. If you require a visa for more than ninety days, the fee is around INR 4200. For multiple-entry visas, the cost is approximately ₹ 6300. It is important to have sufficient funds and know what payment method is accepted to ensure no delays in your payment process.

Interview & Biometrics | 1-3 hours

Most South Korean visas require an interview, therefore, to begin your visa application, Indians need to make an appointment at the nearest South Korean Embassy.

When attending the interview, Indians are required to bring the completed application form along with any required supporting documents. Once again, having all the required documents in place just speeds up the processing phase for your application. Most interviews are between 1 to 3 hours, and after the interview, the processing phase continues until you receive communication about your visa status.

Visa Processing | Anywhere between 1 week to 2 months

In certain cases, such as when additional documents are needed, the processing time for the visa may be extended. If there is a delay, applicants will be notified through email or SMS. The visa processing generally takes around 5 to 8 working days, depending on the visa. Some visas, such as the South Korea Work Visa, can take up to 2 months. If your visa processing period exceeds the recommended processing timeframe it is advisable to contact the Embassy for clarity.

To avoid any inconvenience with your travel plans, Indian applicants should submit their visa applications well in advance.

Visa Outcome | After the visa processing

South Korea Visa processing time in India finishes once you have received some form of communication regarding the status of your application. Whether your application was approved or denied you will receive a notification with the contact details you filled in. If your visa is approved, you will receive instructions on how to collect your passport with the visa stamp. In case of rejection, the reasons for the rejection will be provided.

You can track your South Korea Visa status online or if you have not received any outcome or feedback you can contact the South Korean Embassy or Consulate where you submitted your application.

Checking Visa Status

How to check your South Korea Visa application status online:

  • Access the Korean Visa website 

  • If needed, change the language to English

  • Click on the ‘Check Application Status’ option on the dropdown menu on the left hand side.

  • Firstly,  select your visa application type, then enter your application number, your receipt number or passport number, along with personal details required such as name and date of birth. 

  • Press the search button

  • On the following page, you will be able to view the status of your application along with other relevant details.

Your South Korea visa status outcome can either be:

  • Approved

  • Denied

  • Received - This indicates that your application has been received, but it is still pending review.

  • Under Review- This indicates that your application is currently being evaluated, and you can expect to receive the result soon.

Trusted Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common types of South Korea visas?

South Korea offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, work visas, and family visas. Each type of visa has its own specific requirements and eligibility criteria.

Can I appeal if my South Korea visa application is denied?

In most cases, there is no formal appeal process for a South Korea visa application. However, if you believe there was an error or if you have new and compelling evidence, you may consider reapplying with a revised application.

Can I send someone else to collect my visa at the Embassy?

No, it is not permitted for a third party to collect your visa from the South Korea consulate.

Which type of visa is required for visiting South Korea?

For Indians planning to visit South Korea for tourism and stay up to 90 days, it is necessary to apply for a tourist visa specifically designed for this purpose.

How long does it take to process a South Korea visa?

The processing time for a South Korea visa can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. It can range from a few days to several weeks.

Can I extend my stay in South Korea on a tourist visa?

If you are on a tourist visa in South Korea, you have the option to extend your stay. To do so, you must visit the local immigration office and apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

Can I apply for a South Korea visa online?

The availability of online visa applications and in-person submission depends on the specific visa type and the policies of the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country. While some visa applications can be completed online, others may require you to submit the application in person. It is recommended to check the requirements and procedures outlined by the embassy or consulate for accurate information regarding your visa application process.

Visas in Under a Week

Discover Dubai Mall: Your Ultimate Shopping Destination

May 20, 2024

Discover Dubai Mall: Your Ultimate Shopping Destination

Discover Dubai Mall, the Middle East's grandest shopping center. Explore designer brands, unique attractions, and exquisite dining. Unforgettable experiences await.

Apply For Saudi Visit Visa For Indian Family - Easy Guide

May 20, 2024

Saudi Visit Visa For Indians

Explore Saudi Arabia hassle-free! Get your Saudi visit visa for Indians and experience its rich culture and stunning landscapes. Apply now!

Cambodia E-Visa for Indians: Online Visa Requirements & Fees

May 20, 2024

Cambodia e-visa for Indians

Learn more about the Cambodia visa for Indians. Get detailed information about the validity, fees, and how to apply for the visa.

Egypt Visa for Indians: E-Visa Requirements & Fees

May 20, 2024

Egypt Visa for Indians

Easily apply for an Egypt visa for Indians with our guide. Learn about the fees, validity, requirements, and application process.

Malaysia Visa Photo Size | The Requirements And Size 2023

May 20, 2024

Malaysia Visa Photo Size

In this blog, I will discuss the Malaysia visa photo size. Everything you need to now about photo specifications, facial expressions and attire.

Moldova E-Visa for Indians : Fees, Requirements (& How to apply)

May 20, 2024

Moldova e-visa

Get your Moldova visa for Indians with ease. Discover the e-visa process, fees, requirements, and application steps.

Instant Visas

How To Get Permanent Residency In Thailand?

May 20, 2024

How To Get Permanent Residency In Thailand?

Want to live in Thailand permanently? Well, then you need a Thailand Permanent Resident visa. Luckily this post has all the information you need for a successful application.

Thailand Work Visa for Indians: Costs And Requirements 2023

May 20, 2024

Thailand Work Visa for Indians

Secure your Thailand work visa for Indians! Get insights into costs, requirements, and the application process for a successful work visa in Thailand.

Guide To The Thailand Retirement Visa For Indians

May 20, 2024

Guide To The Thailand Retirement Visa For Indians

Discover all you need to know about Thailand retirement visa for Indians, including eligibility, documents, fees, and benefits. Start your tropical retirement life now.

Ultimate 2023 Guide To Thailand Business Visa For Indians

May 20, 2024

Ultimate 2023 Guide To Thailand Business Visa For Indians

Get a Thailand Business Visa for Indians in NO TIME! This comprehensive guide covers visa requirements, fees, the online application process, and more!

Thailand eVisa VS VOA For Indians: Which Tourist Visa Is Better?

May 20, 2024

Thailand eVisa VS VOA For Indians

We discuss the difference between the Thailand e-visa VS visa on arrival in 2023. So, you can choose the best Thailand tourist visa in India for your next trip.

Bhutan Visa for Indians: Visa Free Entry & Travel Requirements

May 20, 2024

Bhutan Visa for Indians

Explore Bhutan without the visa hassle: A guide for Indians on visa-free entry, the Bhutan entry permit, and what you need to know for a smooth travel experience.

Visa Guaranteed on

20 May, 02:11 PM