South Korea Visa for Indians: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Planning a trip to South Korea can be an exciting adventure, whether it's for tourism, business, or transit. However, before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand the South Korea visa requirements for Indian citizens to ensure a smooth application process. Knowing the necessary documents, eligibility criteria, and application procedures will help you avoid any last-minute hassles. While you’re preparing your travel plans, you might also be considering other destinations like South Korea for employment visas. If that’s the case, it’s equally important to be aware of the South Korea visa for Indians requirements. Whether you're visiting South Korea for leisure, business, or study, understanding the South Korea visa for Indians will make your trip planning much easier. In this guide, we'll cover the essentials of the South Korea requirements for Indian citizens, including the application process, required documents, and tips to increase your chances of approval.

Latest Facts & News About South Korea Visa for Indians (2025)

Following are the key details you need to know about South Korea visa for Indians in 2025

• South Korea does not provide a visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens.

• Visa fees for Indians start at INR 2,800 for a single-entry short-term visa.

• Processing time ranges from 5 to 15 working days, with express services available.

• Indian citizens must apply for a visa via VFS Global or the Korean Embassy.

• No e-visa option is currently available for Indian travellers to South Korea.

• Transit visa exemptions exist for Indian passport holders travelling to certain countries like the USA or Australia.

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity is mandatory.

• Multiple-entry visas are priced higher, starting at INR 7,200.

• South Korea offers a D-2 student visa for higher education.

Also Read: Visa Fees for All Countries from India: Latest Guide 

Why Do Indians Need a South Korea Visa? Latest Guide 

Indian citizens require a visa to enter South Korea regardless of their travel purpose. This includes tourism, business, education, or work. The South Korea visa for Indians ensures compliance with South Korean immigration laws and facilitates smooth entry. Without this visa, Indian travellers would not be able to legally enter or stay in the country, even for short visits.

The South Korea visa for Indians is essential for maintaining security protocols and managing international travel effectively. It also helps the South Korean government keep track of foreign nationals entering the country, ensuring that all visitors meet the necessary legal and security requirements.

For those planning to study in South Korea, the South Korea visa for Indians includes options like the D-2 student visa, while business travellers can apply for specific visas tailored to their needs. Additionally, it’s important to consider travel insurance and familiarize yourself with visa application tips to avoid any issues during the process.

Types of South Korea Visa on Arrival for Indians in 2025

When planning a trip to South Korea, it's essential to select the appropriate visa based on your purpose of visit. Below is a comprehensive overview of the different visa types available for Indian citizens, including the South Korea visa for Indians needed for each purpose.

1. Tourist Visa (B-2)

Ideal for leisure trips, family visits, or tourism, the Tourist Visa allows a stay of up to 90 days. This is one of the most commonly applied for visas under the South Korea visa for Indians. A South Korea visa for Indians is essential for such leisure trips. Additionally, some travellers may inquire about the South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens, which is typically not available for standard tourist visits.

Key Features:

• Validity: Up to 90 days

• Purpose: Leisure, family visits, tourism

Required Documents:

• Valid passport (with at least six months validity)

• Completed visa application form

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Proof of accommodation in South Korea

• Flight itinerary

• Financial proof to cover your stay

2. Business Visa (C-3 Series)

Designed for attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities, the Business Visa’s validity ranges from single-entry (up to 90 days) to multiple entries. This is a common visa type for professionals seeking to engage in business activities in South Korea. A South Korea visa for Indians is mandatory for such business endeavours. Travellers seeking quick entry options might wonder if a South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens is an option, but this is generally not applicable for business purposes.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade shows

• Validity: Single-entry (up to 90 days) or multiple entries

Required Documents:

• Valid passport

• Completed visa application form

• Invitation letter from the South Korean company

• Proof of business activities in India

South Korea Visa Fees for Indians:

• Single-entry visa: INR 2,800

• Multiple-entry visa: Starting at INR 7,200

3. Student Visa (D-2)

For students admitted to South Korean universities, the D-2 visa requires proof of enrollment and financial stability. This visa is part of the South Korea visa for Indians designed for higher education aspirants. A South Korea visa for Indians is crucial for educational pursuits. Students often ask about the South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens, but this option is not available for student visa applicants.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Higher education in South Korea

• Requirements: Proof of university admission, financial proof to support tuition fees and living expenses

4. Work Visa (E Series)

For employment in South Korea, various E-series visas are available, such as E-1 (Professor), E-2 (Foreign Language Instructor), E-7 (Specially Designated Activities), and E-9 (Non-professional Employment). This is a key category under the South Korea visa for Indians for those seeking job opportunities. A South Korea visa for Indians is necessary for employment. Unfortunately, there’s no South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens for work purposes.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Employment in specific sectors

• Requirements: Employment contract with a South Korean employer, relevant qualifications, and experience

5. Transit Visa (C-3-10)

For travellers passing through South Korea en route to another country, the Transit Visa allows a short stay, typically up to 72 hours. This visa is important for those holding a South Korea visa for Indians and travelling to a third country. A South Korea visa for Indians is required even for transit purposes. Some travellers may consider the South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens, but this is not applicable for transit.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Transit to a third country

• Validity: Up to 72 hours

Requirements:

• Valid visa for the destination country

• Confirmed flight itinerary showing onward travel

6. Working Holiday Visa (H-1)

Available to young adults from select countries, including India, the Working Holiday Visa allows for short-term work and travel in South Korea. This is a unique option within the South Korea visa for Indians for cultural and work exchange. A South Korea visa for Indians for working holidays offers an exciting opportunity. The South Korea visa on arrival for Indian is not available under this category.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Holidaying while engaging in short-term employment

• Eligibility: Applicants must meet age and other criteria specified in the bilateral agreement

7. Family Visa (F Series)

For spouses and family members of South Korean citizens or residents, the F-series visas, such as F-1 (Spouse of Korean National) and F-2 (Resident), facilitate family reunification and residence. A South Korea visa for Indians is necessary for family reunification. While some may ask about the South Korea visa on arrival for Indian, this visa type does not support such an option.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Family reunification, long-term residence

• Requirements: Proof of relationship, financial stability, and other criteria

Also Read: Cheapest Countries to Travel from India: Exploring the Globe on a Budget

Latest South Korea E Visa for Indians 

The South Korea E Visa for Indians is an electronic visa that simplifies the application process for Indian travellers visiting South Korea for tourism, business, or short-term studies. It’s issued online and linked to your passport, eliminating the need for embassy visits.

1. Eligibility

The following are the eligibility criteria for the South Korea E Visa for Indians:

• Indian passport holders with valid travel documents

• Purpose: Tourism, business, or short-term studies

• No criminal record

2. Documents Required

The following are the documents required for the South Korea E Visa for Indians:

• Valid passport (6+ months)

• Passport-sized photos

• Completed online application

• Proof of accommodation and flight itinerary

• Financial proof

3. How to Apply?

Following are the steps to apply for the South Korea E Visa for Indians:

1. Visit the official South Korean visa portal

2. Fill out the online application

3. Upload required documents

4. Pay the visa fee (INR 2,500 – INR 5,000)

5. Receive the E Visa via email

4. Benefits

The following are the benefits of having the South Korea E Visa for Indians:

• Easy online process

• Quick approval (3–5 business days)

• No need for embassy visits

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a South Korea Visa in 2025

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, understanding the process of applying for a visa is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to secure your travel authorization, focusing on the South Korea visa for Indians. Whether you’re travelling for tourism, business, or study, knowing how to apply for the South Korea visa for Indians will help ensure a smooth process.

Identify the Right Visa Type for a South Korea Visa 

Choose the appropriate visa type based on your travel purpose—tourism, business, study, or transit. This is crucial for a smooth application process. For Indian travellers, selecting the correct visa type is essential to avoid delays in the South Korea visa for Indians. If you’re unsure about which visa to choose, refer to the official guidelines for the South Korea visa for Indians to find the right fit. Remember, applying for the wrong visa can lead to complications in your travel plans.

Prepare Required Documents for South Korea Visa 

Ensure all documents are up-to-date to avoid issues with your South Korea visa for Indians application. If any documents are missing or incorrect, it could delay the processing of your South Korea visa for Indians. Double-check that all forms are filled out correctly to avoid any mistakes that might affect your application. Essential documents include:

• Completed application form

• Passport with at least six months of validity

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Bank statements and Income Tax Returns (ITRs) to prove financial stability

Submit Your Application for South Korea Visa 

Applications can be submitted online via VFS Global or in person at the Korean Embassy. Make sure all information is accurate to prevent delays. After submission, you can track the status of your South Korea visa for Indians to stay updated. If your application requires additional documents, respond promptly to avoid delays. Keep track of deadlines, especially if you’re applying for the South Korea visa for Indians during peak seasons.

Also Read: Difference Between Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa

South Korea Visa Fees for Indians and Processing Time in 2025

Understanding the South Korea visa fees for Indian applicants and processing time is essential for planning your trip efficiently. Knowing these details helps you prepare the right documents, budget accordingly, and ensure your visa arrives on time.

Fee Structure for South Korea in 2025

The South Korea visa fees for Indian applicants vary based on the type of visa and the number of entries. Here’s a breakdown of the fee structure:

Processing Time for South Korea Visa for Indians Price

The standard processing time for the South Korea visa fees for Indian applicants is 5–15 working days. However, if you need your visa quickly, express services are available at an additional cost. Opting for express processing can significantly reduce waiting times, making it ideal for last-minute travel plans. The benefits of using fast-track services include quicker approval, reduced stress, and the ability to manage urgent schedules.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection of South Korea

When applying for a South Korea visa for Indians, it’s important to be aware of common reasons that could lead to a visa rejection. Understanding these reasons can help you avoid mistakes and improve your chances of approval. Also, knowing the South Korea visa for Indians price is essential to ensure you meet the financial requirements for your application. Visa rejections may occur due to several factors, including:

1. Incomplete Documentation: Missing essential documents like your passport, photographs, or financial proofs can lead to rejection. This can be particularly problematic if you haven’t provided the necessary paperwork to support your South Korea visa for Indians price.

2. Insufficient Funds: Failing to show proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in South Korea is a common reason for rejection. This is closely linked to the South Korea visa for Indians price, as you’ll need to demonstrate you can afford both the trip and the visa fee.

3. Criminal Records: A criminal background can negatively impact your visa application, as it raises concerns about your eligibility. While this doesn’t directly affect the South Korea visa for Indian price, it can impact your ability to obtain the visa altogether.

4. Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies between your application form and supporting documents can trigger red flags. Ensure that the details match your South Korea visa for Indians price receipt and other related documents.

5. Unclear Purpose of Visit: If the purpose of your trip isn’t clearly defined or supported by evidence, your application may be denied. It’s important to align your travel goals with the information provided in the South Korea visa for Indians price documentation.

Also Read: Difference Between Single Entry and Double Entry Visas 

Conclusion

When planning a trip to South Korea, it’s crucial to understand the visa requirements to ensure a hassle-free experience. The South Korea visa for Indians is mandatory for all travel purposes, including tourism, business, education, and work. Since there is no South Korea visa on arrival for Indian citizens, applying in advance through VFS Global or the Korean Embassy is essential. Knowing the South Korea visa fees for Indian applicants, which start from ₹2,800 for a short-term single entry, helps in budgeting effectively. Additionally, understanding the South Korea visa for Indians price ensures you’re financially prepared for both the visa application and your trip. While the South Korea e visa for Indian is not currently available, traditional visa options like tourist, business, and student visas are straightforward to apply for when you have the right documents and not getting rejected. Keep in mind the processing time, which ranges from 5 to 15 working days, and consider express services if you’re on a tight schedule. To learn more about these South Korea Visas for Indians and to find easier ways to get visas for your favourite countries, you must contact TerraTern right away.