Step-by-Step Guide for Indian Travelers to Obtain South Korea Tourist Visa

Before applying for a South Korean tourist visa, it is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Indian applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into South Korea.
• Financial Capability: You should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover all expenses related to your trip. This could be shown through bank statements.
• Flight and Accommodation: Confirmed round-trip flight tickets and hotel bookings are necessary to prove your travel arrangements.
• Travel Purpose Statement: A detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your travel and your itinerary must be included.
• Good Standing: Applicants must have no criminal record and be in good health.

For more details on these requirements, you can refer to Go Kite Tours.

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to gather the necessary documentation for your tourist visa application. Here’s a checklist of required documents:

• Visa Application Form: Fill out the South Korean visa application form accurately.
• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages.
• Recent Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs taken against a white background.
• Bank Statements: Submit bank statements from the last 3-6 months proving sufficient funds.
• Income Tax Returns: Provide your income tax returns or Form 16 for the past two years.
• Proof of Employment: Attach salary slips, an employment letter, or a business license if you are self-employed.
• Travel Itinerary: Include your flight itinerary and hotel bookings.
• Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, travel insurance is recommended for your peace of mind.

Remember, all documents should be authentic and in English if originally in a different language. For more detailed insights, explore Go Kite Tours’ Requirements.

Here’s a streamlined approach to applying for your tourist visa for South Korea:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

As identified earlier, collect all of the aforementioned documents meticulously.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Accurately fill out the South Korean visa application form without any omissions.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted at the nearest South Korean embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center. Many consulates have also embraced online submissions since 2025, making the process more accessible for applicants. More on this can be found at Terratern.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

As of 2025, the fees vary for single and multiple entries, with express visas costing up to INR 10,400 for multiple entries. Check the exact fee details which may apply to your case.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some applicants may be requested to attend an interview as part of their visa application. Be prepared to explain your travel plans and purpose.

Step 6: Track Your Application

After your application submission, utilize the tracking system available via the embassy or VFS Global to monitor your application status.

The typical processing time for South Korean tourist visas ranges from 5 to 15 working days as of 2025, depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications being processed at the time. The introduction of e-visas has enhanced efficiency, decreasing processing times compared to previous years. For more information on processing times and fees, visit Terratern.

When preparing your application for a tourist visa for South Korea, keep these important notes in mind:

• E-Visa Introduction: The introduction of E-Visas for Indian tourists in 2025 streamlines the application process significantly.
• No Visa-on-Arrival: Remember, Indian citizens must obtain their visa before traveling to South Korea.
• Possible Extensions: In certain situations, such as health emergencies or flight cancellations, visa extensions are possible.
• Health Requirements: Applicants for long-term visas may need to submit a tuberculosis test certificate.
• Photography Services: If you require photographs for your visa application, these are available at the India Visa Application Center in Seoul for a fee of 9,500 KRW. For more information, refer to the VFS Global site.

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