Overview of the South Korea Visit Visa
Planning to visit South Korea for business, tourism, or to meet family? You’ll need to apply for the South Korea Visit Visa, also known as the C-3 visa. This short-term visa is perfect for those who want to stay in the country for a short period, usually up to 90 days.
But like any visa application, it can be a bit tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the process. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. From eligibility requirements to the documents you’ll need, and even a few insider tips to ensure a smooth Visa application from Pakistan or India.
Types of Visit Visas in South Korea
Korea Visit Visas C-3 are of different types.
- C-3-1 Family Visit or Conference
- C-3-4 Business
- C-3-9 General Tourist Visa
This article is a unique guide for all those looking to get a C-3-9 Tourist Visa of South Korea.
What is a C-3-9 Visa?
Purpose
The C-3-9 visa is classified as a general short-term visa, meaning it’s designed for a variety of short-term visits that don’t strictly fall under other specific C-3 visa.
It covers purposes like cultural exchanges, attending events or seminars (without the invitation letter) or other non-commercial activities that aren’t directly related to business or tourism.
Duration, Validity and Process Time
The visa is open to foreigners who need to visit South Korea for a short duration of less than 90 days.
It can be issued as a single-entry visa, valid for one entry, or as a multiple-entry visa, depending on the applicant’s eligibility and the nature of the visit.
The Visa application processing time is usually 3 weeks.
Restrictions for Visitors Having C-3-9 Visa
- The C-3-9 visa does not permit employment or any income generating activities.
- It’s intended solely for temporary stays, and overstaying can lead to penalties such as fines or bans from re-entry.
- This visa is often chosen by those who have varied or undefined reasons to visit South Korea, offering flexibility for short-term visits without specific categorization.
Where To Apply
South Korea’s Tourist Visa (C-3-9) can be applied in-person at any Consulate, Embassy or Authorized Visa Application Centres.
Important: No Appointment Needed to visit Korean Embassy, Consulate or any Visa Application Centre in Pakistan or India.
Applying South Korea Visa From Pakistan?
The applicants in Pakistan must visit South Korean Embassy in Islamabad or South Korean Consulate in Karachi to apply for a Visit Visa.
Address and Phone Numbers:
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Islamabad, Pakistan
Address : Block 13, St. 29, Diplomatic Enclave II, G-5/4, Pakistan Pakistan
☎ (+ 92-51) 227-9380 – 1, 227-9385 – 7
Hours: 8:30 – 12:30, 14:00 – 17:00 (Monday to Friday)
Website: VISIT HERE
Karachi Office of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Pakistan
Address : House No.101, 29th Street off Khayaban-e-Muhafiz., Phase VI, DHA, Karachi, Pakistan
☎ 92-21-3585-3950/1
Fax : 92-21-3534-0054
Hours of Operation : 08:20 – 12:30 ,14:00 – 17:00(Monday to Friday)
Website: Visit Here
Applying South Korea Visa From India?
The applicants in India needs to apply Korea Visit Visa at the VFS (Visa Application Centres).
Visit VFS Global Website HERE to find your nearest Visa Application Cantre.
Address and Phone Numbers:
New Delhi VFS Global Korean Visa Application Centre
VFS Korea Visa Application Centre, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place, New Delhi
☎ +91-22-6201-8463
Website: Visit Here
VFS Global in India For Korea Visit Visa Application
Kolkata VFS Global Korean Visa Application Centre
☎ +91-22-6201-8463
AA-1 1843 Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba, Kolkata – 700107
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Delhi, India
Address : 9 Chandragupta Marg, chanakyapuri Extension, New Delhi-110021, India
Tel : +91-11-4200-7000 | Hours of Operation : 9 AM – 12:30 PM, 2 – 5 PM (Monday-Friday)
South Korea consulates in Mumbai and Chennai can also respond to your queries.
Visit the Website of South Korea Embassy in Delhi, India For More Details.
Required Documents For Korea Tourist Visa (C-3-9)
- Valid passport
- Completed visa application form
- Recent photos
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements, tax returns.)
- Day to day travel plan
- Cover letter
- Additional documents if required (based on the nature of visit)
Visa Fees
For single entry C-3-9 visa the fees to be paid in Pakistan is PKR. 12,000 as of today.
For single entry C-3-9 visa the fees to be paid in India is INR. 3,200 as of today.
Visa application fees is non-refundable in any case.
Final Tips for a Successful Visa Application
Here are the few points to be taken care of, while appying for Korea Visit Visa (C-3-9)
- Make sure to apply with all the required documents. Missing documents can lead to visa refusal.
- Try to keep your application simple (not complicated).
- Your travel plans must be very clear.
- Write each and every detail of your trip in your Cover Letter, as it is the first impression of your whole visa application so it must be well defined.
- Ensure accuracy in documents.
Conclusion
Applying for the South Korea C-3-9 Visit Visa can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it’s a smooth process. Ensure all required documents are accurate and complete, and clearly outline your travel plans in your cover letter. Follow the application guidelines closely, and be mindful of the visa restrictions. By following this guide, you can increase your chances of getting your South Korea Visa Approved quickly.