cover letter korea visa

SAMPLE COVER LETTERS for VISA APPLICATION: Korea, Schengen, Australia

Employment certificate, financial documents, and income tax return (ITR) are the staples of most visa applications. But there is one document that is usually overlooked — the cover letter.

A cover letter isn’t always a requirement when applying for a visa. However, it’s something that we often recommend to add to your pile of documents, especially if there is no interview and you have some explaining to do.

You see, sometimes, things don’t always fit the mold perfectly. There are cases wherein you can’t provide the exact document needed, but you have a very good alternative. Or maybe you just can’t provide something at all, but you have a perfectly valid reason. Or perhaps you’re traveling with a group or for a special purpose. These instances could probably benefit from a well-crafted explanation to give the visa officer a clearer picture of your situation.

When I apply for a visa, I usually submit a cover letter regardless of whether or not it’s one of the requirements. I always want to give a summary of my application and clarify some aspects that may be prone to misinterpretation.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

What should be in a cover letter?

For me, a good cover letter must be able to provide the following:

• A short introduction about yourself.
• Your travel dates and the purpose of your trip
• If traveling with a group: your companions and your relationship with them
• If sponsored: your sponsor’s name, your relationship with them, and the reason why they are willing to sponsor you
• If you’re missing some requirements: the reason why you won’t be able to provide them and the alternatives you are submitting instead
• If applying for a double entry or multiple entry visa: the reason why you need to be allowed more than one entry
• A quick rundown of the destinations you will be visiting
• A quick summary of your travel history (if any), highlighting that you have NEVER violated visa rules in the past
• A promise to return to your home country in time

Looks like a lot, huh? But here’s the thing: According to a couple of friends who used to work as visa officers at strict embassies, they usually had very little time to assess each application. Hence, if you’re going to make a cover letter, go straight to the point . One page should be enough. The key is being concise — finding the balance between giving enough information and keeping it short and sweet.

Here are some samples. I intentionally used complicated situations to give you an idea how I usually explain them. If they don’t apply to you, feel free to modify these to match your case. Please use this only as a model for your own cover letter. Please do not copy-paste the whole thing without adjustments.

Sample Cover Letter for Australian Visa (Online Application)

✅ DOWNLOAD THIS!

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Visa

✅ DOWNLOAD THIS HERE!

Sample Cover Letter for Korean Visa

2020 • 1 • 7

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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where to attach cover letter for Australia Visa application?

In my case, I uploaded it under Evidence of Planned Tourism Activities > Others.

Hello, I will be applying for a Japan visa and will submit a cover letter din. I have a few questions:

• If I am traveling with friends pero we will be submitting individual applications, do I need to include that in the cover letter na I am with them on this trip?
• Do you need to submit all your savings account o kahit isa nalang?
• Plan ko rin sana (dahil nabasa ko sa ibang posts nyo hehe) na payroll and savings account ipasa, pero kung nililipat ko rin naman yung laman ng payroll sa savings, need ko pa ba isubmit yung payroll account?
• Sa ibang Japan visa application na napanuod ko, nagsusubmit sila ng bank certificate at bank statement. Do I need to do that?
• If yes, need ko ba explain sa cover letter ko na tinatransfer ko sa digital bank muna yung pera saka ko tinatransfer sa savings account? (kasi baka makita, if may bank statement, na nanggaling sa ganitong account yung pumasok na pera)

sorry habang nagtatype ako nadadagdagan questions ko haha. sana masagot parin. Thank you sa travel guides. Super helpful. :)

This is for Japan ha.

1. You may indicate your companions. Ako I prefer na imention sila to show na travel with friends talaga.

2. OK lang kahit isa lang kung sa tingin mo strong enough ung account na yun. Pwede ring madami if feeling mo di enough ung isa lang.

3. Naeempty ba ung payroll account when u transfer?

4. Bank cert lang naman ang need ng Japan so kahit walang statement, ok lang.

5. If hindi ka magsusubmit ng statement, di na need iexplain kasi hindi lalabas. :)

I plan to visit Canada and have started my visa application. I selected visit friend for purpose instead of tourism as I would like to be fully honest with my application. My very purpose is to be with my boyfriend and meet his family and friends. Touring comes as a bonus. Would it be fine to add captions or narrations on the pdf document together with our pictures as proof? I also have our hotel and tour bookings and his boarding passes on the two times that he has visited me here in PH. This is the Proof of Relationship section on the application visa.

Hello. Any recommendations for Schengen visa assistance agencies?

Try Gazelle Travel and Tours around Ortigas or Constellation Travel in Makati.

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Korean Visa without ITR — Here’s How I Successfully Did It!

[UPDATE]: The Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) located on the 9F-10F of Brittany Hotel BGC in Taguig now accepts walk-in applicants. There is a Korean visa application service fee of ₱900. Read the Korean Embassy’s official visa announcements from time to time.

Natvisa is another good resource for travel visa-related needs. They offer information regarding the Korean ETA .

Before anything else, you should know that the Korean visa applications may now be processed via one of the designated travel agencies , the  Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in Manila for walk-in applicants, or the Korean Consulate in Cebu on the scheduled Korean visa online appointment for Cebu-based applicants.

Previously, I got my Korean tourist visa even though I lack the ITR requirement. At the time, I was fairly new to the job and didn’t have an ITR just yet. I understand the struggle and dread of not having this document to back your visa application. So, I’m creating this South Korean visa without ITR guide for those who want to try their luck, too. Although I do not guarantee the same outcome for you, I hope this will help you in your Korean visa application.

[NEWS]: From Feb to Dec 2024, qualified applicants including PRC license holders, credit card holders, government officials, and elected officials are exempted from submitting certain documents like Income Tax Return (ITR), bank certificates, and bank statements. Read the official announcement by the Korean Embassy and Korean Consulate in Cebu on the simplification of visa application documents.

Side note: If you are a freelancer who wants to legitimize your profession to avoid ITR problems when you apply for visas in the future, I highly recommend that you register as a self-employed professional at BIR. You may refer to my freelancer BIR registration guide .

My Korean visa without ITR tips

Tip #1: write your korean visa cover letter.

First things first. Compose a convincing and professional cover letter, especially when applying for a Korean visa with no ITR (like my case). The Korean visa cover letter should express your intent to travel to South Korea and explain why you are applying for a South Korea visa without ITR. Below is my Korean visa sample cover letter to guide you in writing your own.

Sample letter of explanation for no ITR Korean visa

[Date of Application]

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig city 1634, Philippines

Dear Sir / Madam:

I am writing this letter to express my interest to travel to South Korea and explain why I do not have an Income Tax Return (ITR) as part of my South Korea visa requirements.

I understand that an ITR will show my strong social and economic ties to the  Philippines, and that I will return home exactly on my scheduled return date. Unfortunately, for now, I do not have an ITR for my South Korea visa application because… [write your reasons]

In addition, my passport shows that I have already traveled to… [indicate your travel history: destinations, travel dates, and travel buddies]

I would love to see and experience South Korea myself because… [state your personal reasons why you love to travel to South Korea]

You may read my travel stories on my travel blog… [add URLs of personal blogs or platforms for your published works, if applicable]

I have attached the following documents to prove my travel capacity:

[list the documents you included in your application]

Hope you find everything in order. Thank you!

[Complete name with signature]

Tip #2: List the Korean visa requirements and gather them

Make your own list of South Korea visa requirements and gather all of your documents.

So, how long should it take for you to complete the requirements and apply for your Korean visa? Give it at least two to three months. The validity of the Korean visa is three months anyway, so you have enough time to prepare. Meaning, if your Korean visa is approved today, you still have the next three months to use it to enter Korea.

For example, if you intend to travel in March, during the Korea spring season , your requirements should be ready for submission by January. In our case, when we had our Korea winter holiday in December, we already prepared our Korean visa requirements in mid-October.

Tip #3: Attach supporting documents

While the Korean Embassy discourages you to book your flights and hotels before your Korean visa is granted, you may still opt to attach some supporting documents to prove your travel capacity. These supporting documents may include credit card statements and owned assets under your name.

Additional Tip: Since hotel name, address, and contact number are needed when you apply for your Korean visa, might as well book your hotel stay in Korea ahead. However, you should choose the one with a free cancellation policy in case your visa gets denied. You can check out Klook  or  Agoda where some properties offer free cancelation of up to 48 hours.

Tip #4: Apply through accredited travel agencies only

If you intend to apply for a South Korea tourist visa through a travel agency, make sure that it is accredited by the Korean Embassy. See this list of designated travel agencies for Korean visa .

Tip #5: Follow my South Korea visa application guide for Filipinos

Have you gathered all the needed Korean visa documents? You may check out our South Korea visa application guide for  Filipinos , Korean visa in Cebu application guide , and Korean visa guide for self-employed Filipinos for more details and tips of my successful application. You may also read my tips to increase your chances of visa approval .

Good luck and have faith!

Let us know how your Korean visa turned out by connecting with us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , and YouTube .

Already planning your Korea trip? Read these articles for more inspiration:

• Korea souvenirs list
• Korean street food list
• N Seoul Tower guide
• Lotte World guide
• Nami Island guide
• Discover Seoul Pass guide

Disclaimer: While my South Korean visa without ITR was approved before, I do not advocate that you apply with incomplete requirements. I still recommend that you strive to complete the requirements set by the Korean Embassy  or Korean Consulate in Cebu to avoid complications. This article was originally published in Jan 2019 but is constantly updated for reliability and accuracy of information.

How about applying visa without travel experience? Is there any chances of approval?

Travel history is not stated as a requirement in applying for a South Korean visa so you can still try your luck. However, building up your travel history could help in increasing your chances of visa approval as this will provide additional proof that you have every intention to go back to your country of origin as seen from your previous travels.

Hope this helps! And best of luck in your Korean visa application soon! 🙂

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

South Korea Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Published: March 27, 2024

A South Korea tourist visa is required for all nationalities that are not visa-exempt. The official code for the ordinary tourist visa is C-3-9. You can start the visa application online but you must visit a South Korean embassy in person to submit the documents.

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: All nationalities that are not visa-exempt (or not eligible for K-ETA)
• Validity: 3 months for single-entry; 6 months for double-entry
• Allowed stay: up to 90 days for single-entry; up to 30 days for double-entry
• Processing time: 4 to 14 days
• Fee: 40 USD for single-entry; 70 USD for double-entry

Applications are reviewed by the specific embassy, hence the requirements, costs, and processing time differ significantly between countries.

Read the South Korea Visa Guide for general information on various visa options for tourists, requirements, eligibility and application process.

Table of Contents

Understanding south korea tourist visa.

Tourist visa validity

The single-entry tourist visa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

The double-entry tourist visa is valid for 6 months.

The multiple-entry tourist visa can be valid for up to 5 years but has additional requirements including prior travel history to South Korea and as such isn’t an option for first-time travelers.

Duration of stay

Single-entry visas allow up to 90 days but double-entry visas only up to 30 days at a time.

Allowed number of entries

There are three types of South Korean tourist visas – single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry.

Allowed ports of entry

You can enter South Korea from any international airport or seaport with a tourist visa.

When to apply

The processing time varies greatly between South Korean embassies. In general, allow at least a few weeks for the issuance of a tourist visa after your first visit to the embassy. 

• Earliest: 3 months before traveling
• Latest: 3 weeks before traveling

Tourist visa extension

Extensions to the tourist visa are possible but not easily granted. You must apply in person at the Seoul Immigration office. Extensions are approved only on a case-by-case basis.

Tourist visa benefits

South Korean tourist visa also offers VISA-FREE travel to 7 other countries. Read the  VISA-FREE countries for South Korea visa  for more details.

South Korea Tourist Visa Requirements

Who requires a tourist visa

All non-visa-exempt nationalities require a tourist visa for South Korea.

If you are visa-exempt, you do not require a tourist visa instead you require a K-ETA to travel to South Korea.

Documents required

The following documents are required for the tourist visa.

• Passport valid for more than 6 months
• Completed Visa Application Form (Form #17)
• Two passport-size photos (1 digital photo for online form)
• Bank statement for the last 3-6 months

Depending on the nationality and the embassy where you apply, you may be required to submit additional documents such as the below.

• Proof of employment (employment letter, salary slips, etc.)
• Income tax returns (1-3 year ITR depending on whether employed or self-employed)
• Proof of long-term residence (if applying from a country other than the country of citizenship)
• Proof of property ownership
• Family book or marriage certificate

Photo requirements

The photo for the tourist visa must meet the following requirements. 

• Must be of size 35×45 mm, with the face taking 25×35 mm
• Must be against a plain, evenly lit and light background, without any marks or creases
• Must have taken within the last 6 months
• Mist be looking directly at the camera
• No sunglasses or hats, except for medical/disability reasons
• Facial features are not covered from the bottom of chin to the top of forehead
• Full face is visible without any shadows
• Full face, eyebrows, eyes, nose, or mouth must not be covered, but covered ears are permitted.

The visa fee varies significantly depending on the type of visa, the location where you apply and your nationality.

In most general cases, the single-entry visa fee is 40 USD, double-entry is 70 USD and multiple-entry is 90 USD. The fee is payable in local currency in cash.

In some countries, South Korea has outsourced visa processing to Visa Application Centers such as VFS Global. Visa Application Centers charge their own service fee for handling the visa applications.

The fee is higher, lower, or exempted for certain nationalities. You can find the complete list on the Korea Visa Portal . 

Processing time

Applications are reviewed by a particular embassy so processing time is not universal. Some embassies process tourist visas in 4 days, others in 7 days, some in 14 days or more.

The official guidance is to apply at least 3 weeks in advance of traveling to allow sufficient time for the issuance of your tourist visa.

In countries where the application process is outsourced to Visa Application Centers, express processing is available for an additional fee.

Tourist Visa Application Process

How to apply for South Korea tourist visa

South Korea’s tourist visa application process is partially online. You will have to fill out an online form but you will have to visit the embassy in person after to submit your documents. 

Below is the general process of applying for a South Korean tourist visa at the embassy. 

• Step 1: Complete the e-form online

Step 2: Visit the diplomatic office

Step 3: wait for visa processing, step 4: receive visa issuance email/collect passport, step 1: complete the e-form online.

Follow the below steps to fill out the e-form online.

• Go to the Korea Visa Navigator page and select your country. Pick “Short Term visit” and “90 days or less”.
• Scroll to the bottom and select “Ordinary Tourist C-3-9”.
• You will see multiple streams. The first stream on the list is for travelers visiting South Korea for tourism. Click on “e-Form (Visa Application)”.
• Read through the procedure guidance page and click “Fill out the e-Form”.
• Select the South Korean diplomatic office that you intend to visit, upload a face photo and complete the form.

After you complete the form, print the file with the barcode on it. You will receive an email with your application number. If you displace the barcode file, you can find it by entering your details on the Check Application Status page .

Prepare the printed visa application form (the one with the barcode) and attach copies of the other required documents. 

Visit the South Korean embassy or consulate that you picked during the application.

Formally submit your application in person at the embassy. Pay the visa fee in cash.

Check your email regularly in case the embassy requests additional documents. The visa process can take anywhere from 4 to 14 working days depending on the embassy. 

Receive Confirmation of Visa Issuance or Visa Grant Notice. Retrieve it online and print it before traveling to South Korea. 

If the embassy or consulate of South Korea still issues visa stickers in your country, you will have to collect your passport or request to mail it to you.

NOTE South Korean embassies no longer issue visa stickers inside passports. Stickers are still being issued in countries where visa application centers handle the process but this is going to be phased out soon.

Entry Procedure at the Border

Before going to the immigration counters, make sure to complete the paper Arrival Card. The airline staff will give you one onboard or you can grab one from the immigration. 

Present your passport along with the Visa Grant Notice and the Arrival Card to the immigration officer. Get stamped in and enter South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the minimum bank balance required for south korea visa.

There is no official statement regarding the minimum bank balance by South Korean immigration. It will depend on your circumstances and nationality.

That being said, anything less than 2,500 USD may be considered too low to sustain a trip to South Korea. 

Can I apply for South Korea tourist visa online?

You can begin the application process online by filling out the application form (form #17). However, the next steps require you to visit a South Korean embassy in person. Applications completely online are not possible.

Is a cover letter required for South Korea tourist visa?

A cover letter is not required for the South Korea tourist visa. But you can still submit one if you need to explain your circumstances in detail.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Cover letter for a Korean student visa(4 samples)

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This article will list samples of “cover letters for a Korean student Visa.”

Samples of cover letters for a Korean student Visa

When applying for a Korean student Visa, your cover letter is an opportunity for you to show your recipient why you qualify. The best format for writing a cover letter is:

• Address the recipient with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient).” If you do not know the recipient’s name, you can refer to them as sir/madam.
• Write a brief statement about why you are interested in studying in Ireland.
• Make a brief statement about your purpose for choosing the university/college. Next, disclose if you have already paid tuition for the program you have enrolled in.
• Next, clearly state that you intend to return to your home country after completing your educational program in Canada.
• List the expenses/funds and the documents and items attached to the application.
• Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement.

Korean Embassy or consulate details in India

Your full name

Passport details

To Whom It May Concern,

[Introduce yourself and why you are applying for a student visa. Include the program and educational institution you have been accepted in and the dates you will need a student visa for]

[A minimum 3-4 lines on why you chose your specific program and educational institution, plus why you want to study in Germany]

[One paragraph on relevant education and experience you have had that showcases your interest to pursue studying in the particular program Germany. How is studying in this program a progression or move forward towards your personal goals]

[One paragraph on what officials can expect from inside the application packet. It is suggested to put the documents down as bullet points]

[Complete the letter stating what studying in Germany will mean to you, and how they may contact you with any questions.

[Signature]

Contact information”

Your address

Name and address of where the application is being sent (typically the relevant Embassy or consulate for your application in India)

Subject: [Your Full Name & Application or Passport Number]

Dear Sir or Madam,

My name is [full name] and I would like to apply for a student visa to attend [insert educational institution]. I have been accepted into the [insert program name] and would like to be a full time student to complete this degree or program for [insert number of months you would like a study visa for].

[One paragraph on why you have chosen your program, and your goals; provide a brief synopsis of your academic history in India, and include what you believe you can learn as a full time student from the country]

[One paragraph on if you have already enrolled and if you have paid tuition towards your program. Include also how you will pay for any remainder tuition and your living expenses in the country. Provide any details on scholarships, grants or benefits you are receiving from the educational institution]

[One short paragraph listing in bullet points what documents the officials can expect to find in this packet]

[One short paragraph on your ties to India and your next steps for after your visa and program are complete. Please include your contact information so that officials can reach you with any questions]

Your printed name”

Name and address of where the application is being sent (typically the relevant >Embassy or consulate for your application in India)

I would like to submit my application for a student visa for [insert country]. My application number is xxx-xxx. I have been accepted into [insert program name] at [insert educational institution].

[One paragraph on your educational background and desire to study at your particular program and what you are hoping to accomplish]

[One paragraph on how you intend to fund your tuition, stay and living expenses. >Include also anything that your program is providing you, such as accommodation or benefits]

[One short paragraph on what documents the officials can expect to find in this packet]

[One short paragraph on your ties to India and intentions to return home after your visa is complete. Please include your contact information so that officials can reach you with any questions]

The Visa Officer

Embassy of South Korea,

                                 Subject: Request for a Long-Term Student Visa   (Up to 3 years validity)  

I am Mr #####,  holding an Indian passport R54546, Date of Birth 28/04/1987 traveling to South Korea for pursuing a Ph.D., in ###### UNIVERSITY, Address SOUTH KOREA for a period of 3 YEARS.  We received all the necessary documents which are required for a visa from the university.  I am planning to move to south Korea by this month’s end approximately by (Date ) based on visa acceptance. And my date of return would be September 2020.

I request you to kindly grant me the Student Visa for pursuing my Ph.D.

Thanks and Regards

Email: ######”

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the elements of a cover letter.

The Four Parts of a Cover Letter

• Address the Recruiter by Name.
• Address the Company’s Needs.
• Tell the Recruiter Why You Want to Work Here.
• Tell Them How to Reach You.

Is it worth applying for a Korean passport?

The advantages of becoming a Korean citizen and holding an Irish passport include: 

• You are still considered an EU citizen. 
• You can travel freely throughout the 28 member states of the EU to live and work. 
• If you have children, they will be granted Irish and EU citizenship.

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

http://trawellday.in/South_korea-Student_covering_letter_format.html

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Travel with Karla

the teacher who loves to travel

A Freelancer’s Sample Letter for Visa Application

Freelancers like me dread applying for visa. We often think that we won’t get approved because we can’t provide some requirements like ITR, Company ID, and Certificate of Employment. I tried my luck and wrote a letter to the Korean Embassy explaining why I can’t provide the requirements.

Here’s a sample letter for Korean Embassy:

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1630

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is Karla _____ and I am requesting a tourist visa to South Korea. I plan to travel to South Korea this July 2019.  I lived in Seoul for two years as a missionary. To be specific, I was a part of the English Ministry of _____. I taught the church members on how to speak English. This time, I plan to go back to South Korea as a tourist. I want to visit and promote some tourist destinations and Korean drama filming locations.

Part of the tourist visa application is to show an Income Tax Return (ITR), which unfortunately I do not possess. Hence, I am writing this letter. The reason I do not have an ITR is because I am a freelance travel blogger (www.travelwithkarla.com) and an English Proficiency Guide at _______. I travel to different places and write about them. Moreover, I also conduct online lectures on how to pass the IELTS and TOEFL exams.

I can give you an assurance that my finances right now are enough to cover my 5 days trip in South Korea. I was able to prepare an enough amount for my 5 days trip. Please see my bank certificate for reference. I am very positive that this amount is good enough for my trip.

In addition, I also attached an invitation letter from _____, the Director of Korean Cultural Center & Counsellor for Culture and Public Relations of the Korean Embassy. I was invited to be a part of the Honorary Reporters of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. I believe that this trip will really help me in raising awareness of Korea in the Philippines. My 100,000 followers across social media accounts are excited to follow my adventures in Korea. I’m going to make a lot of travel guides after this trip.

I am really hoping that you would grant my request for a tourist visa. Hoping for your kind consideration.

Sincerely, Karla __________ Applicant

Here’s a sample letter for Japanese Embassy:

Embassy of Japan in the Philippines 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1300

My name is Raymond _______ and I am requesting a tourist visa to Japan. I plan to travel to Osaka this May 2019.  I am seriously excited to see the beautiful sights of the city and move my childhood dream into reality. I was exposed to different anime all created in Japan since I was a kid. This exposure to anime is pushing me to visit your wonderful country.

Part of the tourist visa application is to show an Income Tax Return (ITR), which unfortunately I do not possess. Hence, I am writing this letter. The reason I do not have an ITR is because I am a freelance Physical Therapist and a board review Educator. I conduct lectures in review centers for local and US PT board examinations. I also treat patients with disability at their own houses.

I can give you an assurance that my finances right now are enough to cover my 5 days trip in Osaka. I was able to prepare an enough amount for my 5 days trip. Please see my bank certificate for reference. I am very positive that this amount is good enough for my trip.

I have traveled to the United States of America twice already as a tourist visa holder. My first one was last January 2017 in Hawaii and the second one was just last January 2019 in Philadelphia, PA. Please check my passport for reference. It has been my life goal to visit different countries and that includes the wonderful Japan.

Sincerely, Raymond ______ Applicant

I and my friend Raymond got our visas approved using the letter above. I hope you can also get yours approved using those guide. If you have any questions, leave a comment below.

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22 comments.

• Pingback: South Korea resumes issuing tourist visas - Travel with Karla

I’m curious if multiple visa can be granted if unable to provide ITR and give a letter of explanation… would you know? ? I applied for my 2nd Japan visa last year but around that time I was working remotely already so I asked for sponsorship from my sister. I was not given multiple visa (despite being approved prior with a japan visa) ?

YAY! This would be helpful for me for my application after lockdown. Badly want to travel to Korea for a long time now. I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR YEARS *fingers crossed

this is a good share. Currently, we have an increasing freelancers and digital nomads, and having an ITR is not priority, however, is noteworthy on the letter. I am sure that this article would have helped lots of pinoy travellers to experience South Korea and Japan.

This is so helpful since I also dont have ITR. Papano pag dependent ka ng parent? Pero me ipon ka din as freelancer?

• Pingback: Japan Visa Requirements 2019 + Tips - Travel with Karla
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Thanks for sharing your reassuring tips for those who might be worrying about securing a SoKor visa. It would be a shame if they didn’t try simply because they thought they didn’t have the proper docs.

This is great, Karla! Perfect for freelancers and those who works online.

Thank you this is very helpful to use as a guide in makinh our own letters. There are a lot of requirement when applying for visas and sometimes they’re just impossible to get. This means, there’s still a chance tho!!

Thanks for sharing this letter (ma copy nga hehe) I remember ung nag tourist visa din ako sa singapore though complete requirements naman ako pero grabe yung embassy natin talagang last 10 seconds bago kami pinalabas sa embassy office.

this post is helpful for all the freelancers. congrats on the visa and enjoy your SK trip this July! lapit na!

Thank you for this. Will keep this in mind when we decide to travel to South Korea.

Great help for all the freelancers out there who really wants to travel. You provided pa sample letters. Nice!

So generous of you to share these sample letters! These are such a great aid and guide.

Wow.. Pwede pala to.. Thanks for sharing this.. Sobrang informative and helpful nito..

Wow! What a relief! I am really worried about my upcoming visa application and I have been thinking about it for 6 months now! I am really problematic if I will be approved or not. But with your blog, I am positive that I have a chance to be approved. Me and my boyfriend are planning to visit Korea together this September. I have been to Korea last year as a tourist too but I was employed during that time. And we also purchased the ticket when we are still employed. We did not expect that there’s some issue on our company before and we decided to resign and be an online freelancer. So imagine the pain of thinking that we will be denied? Haha but thanks to you Ms. Karla! Can I ask you something? What did you put on your visa application form? Did you choose “others” then wrote freelancer? What about the contact details of the company? My online client can’t give me a contact details because we only communicate via email. I am looking forward for your answer! You are a big help Ms. Karla! Godbless.

Yup, checked “others”, then I wrote freelancer. For contact number, I just used mine. Good luck on your application. 🙂

Thank you so much Ms. Karla. One last question, my client is based in UK. Shall I put the company name and the UK address too? But I will put my contact number instead, do you think that will be a problem? What did you put on your application Ms. Karla on the co. name and address? I’m sorry, I have a lot of questions.haha. Thank you so much for your reply!

This will be a great help to get every applicant’s visa approved. I can refer to this if I wish to travel to SoKor someday.

Hi Ms. Karla! Did you attached proof of income when tou applied? I am an online freelancer too and I will apply a tourist visa next month. Thanks!

Hi Mindy, I just submitted my bank statement and bank certificate.

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A Freelancer’s Guide for a Korean Visa without ITR 2019

Are you a Filipino freelancer who’s planning to travel to South Korea real soon? Let me share with you some alternative ways and few tips on how to apply and have a greater chance of getting your tourist visa approved. And make your South Korea travel goal come to life!

Just recently, I traveled in South Korea with friends. We had the best time of our lives in our six days of discovering the beautiful city of Seoul. But before all came to pass, I faced few struggles with my visa application. Because I’m a freelancer, I had no Income Tax Return (ITR) or Form 2316 to present which is one of the required documents in applying for a visa.

Knowing that incomplete requirements would most likely be denied — I was a little anxious about it. But how did I get a visa approval from the Korean Consulate without an ITR? Here’s an easy guide on how to apply for a South Korean tourist visa and get a higher chance of approval.

How to Apply for a Tourist Korean Visa

Prepare the necessary documents.

• Application Form — you can download a copy of the form here .
• 1 piece of Passport size colored picture
• Original Passport (should be valid for more than 6 months)
• Photocopy of Passport Bio-page (page 2)
• Original & Photocopy of valid visa/s and arrival stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years (if applicable only)
• Original Certificate of Employment[Must include applicant’s position, date hired, compensation, office address, HR landline number (cell-phone number is not allowed), HR e-mail address]
• Original Personal Bank Certificate(Must include account type, current balance, account opening date, ADB)
• Bank Statement(Original or certified true copy of the bank statements/passbook for the last 3 months)
• Photocopy of ITR (Income Tax Return) or Form 2316
• Copy of PRC Card or IBP Card (if applicable only)

Check out full details of the visa requirements for different categories here .

Submit your visa application

In submitting your visa application, you need to arrange your documents according to how the list of requirements is chronologically ordered.

There are two options on how to submit your visa application:

• Through a travel agency . Travel agencies would require you to pay around PHP 1,000 – 2,000 for the processing fee. The same requirements should be complied. There are 35 accredited travel agencies you could choose from. You can check the full list here .
• Personal Submission (applicable only to those applying in Cebu). You can personally submit your documents for the visa application at the Korean Consulate here in Cebu. You may refer to the address and contact number provided below. No payment needed and it’s fast and easy . The receptionist of the building at the ground floor will require you to present one valid ID before you could proceed to the 12 th floor. When you reach the Korean Consulate’s office, a guard on duty will greet you. You will be asked for what’s your purpose of visiting and then a priority number will be given. Your phone’s camera will also be sealed while you’re inside the premise. It would take for about 15-20 minutes to process the submission of your documents.

Address of Consulate in Cebu 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo Cebu City

Contact Information Tel: (63-32) 231-1516(9)Fax: (63-32) 231-2950E-Mail: [email protected]

Starting April 1, 2019 , visa processing period will be 7 working days due to increase in number of Korean visa applicants. Visa Fee for 59 days (or less) stay in Korea will be free of charge. For 60 to 90 days stay in Korea — visa fee is PHP 2,000. Note: Submission time for visa application is from 9:00AM to 11:00AM only (Mondays–Fridays) except holidays.

What to do when you don’t have an ITR?

I’ve been in the freelancing industry for quite some time and truth be told, most freelancers are not tax payers. I’m one of those who weren’t declaring income and filing appropriate taxes to the government. I had long been planning to register in BIR, but I always put it on hold. Not until early this year, I’ve felt the need to do so.

Knowing that I have a couple of international travels this year (wherein one of these was in South Korea), I’ve had to establish a good personal background. So, I registered myself as a professional tax payer just February of this year in BIR and started paying tax.

As freelancers, we’re enjoying lots of perks — decent pay, freedom to work anywhere and anytime as long as there is a good internet connection. We can easily travel as much as we want, whenever we want to. There’s no problem traveling within the Philippines. Of course, we’re on our comfort zone. You just bring one or two valid IDs and you’re set to explore the country.

But, traveling internationally is a different story. Especially to those countries which require a visa. There are certain rules to follow and requirements to comply. One of the most basic and important visa requirements is the Income Tax Return (ITR). So, what should you do when you don’t have an ITR for your visa application?

Write a cover letter

A cover letter is written when you’re lacking one of the requirements. This is to explain why you are not able to submit the said requirement. Your cover letter should contain, but not limited, to the following details:

• Your purpose of writing a cover letter.
• Reason why you are unable to present the said required document.
• Describe the nature of your job as a freelancer.
• You can mention your flight details , hotel/airbnb booking details , Klook vouchers . You can even mention who you are traveling with, if you’re traveling in a group.
• Indicate all supporting documents you will provide.
• Explain your desire of traveling to their country — why you have chosen to travel to South Korea.
• Be sincere in your letter that you are returning to the Philippines within the specific travel period.

Note: Keep your cover letter short and simple. You can contact me if you want me to make a cover letter for you @Php350 only. HAHA!

Disclaimer: My cover letter doesn’t really guarantee that your visa application will be approved. The approval of your visa application still depends on the Korean Embassy or Consul’s judgment.

Submit all supporting documents

It is not necessary, but I strongly suggest that you submit additional documents to somehow support and strengthen your visa application. Submit all the supporting documents you have mentioned in your cover letter. Here is the list of supporting documents I’ve submitted for my visa application:

• Certificate of Earnings from Upwork (or any Freelance Marketplaces you belong to).
• Certificate of Registration from BIR and BIR Payment Form No. 0605 (if available).
• Flight details, Airbnb and Klook bookings (or any bookings you made in advance for your trip in S. Korea).

Friendly Tips for Traveling Freelancers

Register your freelancing job in bir.

If you are a freelancer with a heart of a traveler, I highly recommend you register as a professional tax payer in BIR just like what I did. If freelancing is your only source of income — you better register as early as possible if you are planning to go on a trip outside the country.

Why do I say so? Maybe, you’ll think it’s not really needed, you don’t want to undergo the tedious registration process, or you just don’t feel like paying taxes at all. Regardless of your reason, it is our responsibility as a Filipino citizen who’s earning an income to pay taxes to the government. BIR should give me commissions for this! HAHA

Also, there are few benefits of having an ITR — one of these is for the smooth processing of your international travels. Though I don’t have an ITR yet (since I only registered a couple of months ago), I have a strong feeling if it weren’t for the certificate of registration and the payment form from BIR that I’ve submitted for my visa application, I would possibly be denied.

Visit:  https://vabootcamp.ph/blog/the-simplest-method-on-how-to-register-as-a-freelancer-in-bir/

Secure a certificate of employment / contract from your clients

Certificate of employment or a contract is another important document for your visa application. If possible, you may request from your client to get one.

Deposit sufficient funds on your savings bank account

Make sure that you have sufficient funds to convince the consulate or embassy that you can finance all the expenses for your travel. Mostly, they require you to provide a bank certificate and/or statement of account.

For the Korean visa application, they require you to submit a bank statement for the last 3 months and a bank certificate that shows the account type, current balance, account opening date, and average daily balance (ADB). The older your savings account with more deposit transactions; and no or less withdrawal — the better.

Just a little warning, don’t deposit big amount of funds (i.e. 50K PHP) on your account few days before you request to print your bank certificate or statement. It would only reveal that you intended to deposit this amount as show money. This might affect the approval of your visa application.

To wrap it up, all you must do is prepare and take proper actions. Remember, you can’t travel to South Korea without a visa. So, start applying one month before your travel date and give yourself ample time to comply if the consul will ask for additional requirements.

Just follow these simple steps:

(1) prepare and submit all the required documents;

(2) write a cover letter if you lack a requirement and submit all other supporting documents; 

(3) make sure to provide an impressive financial overview;

(4) justify your intention of traveling to their country and that you’re returning to the Philippines; and lastly,

( 5) add faith and LOTS of prayer! Ask your Priest or Pastor! Kidding! But would be good as well, right?This simple guide doesn’t really guarantee that your visa application will be approved. The approval of your visa application still depends on the Korean Embassy or Consul’s judgment. I hope you found this post helpful. God bless on your visa application! 

Our 7D6N ‘ish Itinerary and Budget in Seoul 

About THE AUTHOR

I am a Christian Freelance Website designer & developer based in the Philippines. Also, one of the “Top Rated” Web designers on Upwork that you can hire. I’m trying to live a digital nomad lifestyle, traveling while doing freelance jobs in between.

I design modern, easy-to-use, Thrive Themes, Elementor Pro WordPress websites. I am also a consistent Top-Rated Website WordPress designer and developer in Upwork (The largest online talent solution connecting businesses and skilled professionals). 

Glengallarde 2016 - 2022 © All Rights Reserved. matthew 6:33

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020-49027000 / 020-25550000

[email protected].

• Visa Requirements
• South Korea

South Korea Visa Requirements - Documents, Eligibility & Fees

Indian passport holders who are willing to apply for a South Korea visa can find the necessary visa information on this page. In the following, you can find South Korea visa requirements which mainly include the visa documents and eligibility criteria. General guidelines to be followed at the time of submission of South Korea visa documents are mentioned on the page. For further visa consultation, you can contact BTW Visa Executives.

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa

Following is the general list of documents required for South Korea visa for Indians.

A passport is a document that is required at the time of international travels. It is issued by the government of the country to verify the identity and nationality of the candidate.

The submitted passport must meet the parameters given below

• It must be original and genuine.
• It must be valid for 6 months ahead of the span of stay.
• It must have minimum three blank pages for the visa stamp.
• It must not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any kind of way.

One cannot cross international boundries without the passport. It is considered a criminal offense otherwise.

An old passport is a passport that has expired or is completely stamped. In the visa processing, it is required to track the travel history of the applicant.

If available, the old passport must also be provided meeting the given criteria

• It must be original and in a good condition to access the required information.

Without the old passport, you cannot get the visa stamp. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

The photo is provided to the authority so that you can be identified based on the same.

The photographs must be provided as per the given photo specifications

• It should be Without Spectacles & Sunglasses, No Smiling face (Teeth should not be visible).
• It must cover face 80% of the frame.
• It must be clicked on an all white background.
• Two copies to be submitted with general photo guidelines.
• It must be of proper size with dimensions of 35x45 mm (length - 45mm, breadth - 35mm).
• It must have a matte finish.
• It must be a recent photograph.
• The expressions on the face must be neutral, there must not be any kind of smiling of frowning in the photograph.
• Any kind of glasses must not be worn in the photograph.
• The hair must be tied back so that the face is clearly visible.
• The ears must be visible clearly.
• It must not have any headgear worn apart from religious reasons.
• It is to be taken care that your teeth do not show in the photograph.

Recent pictures are mandatory as old pictures can cause the authorities to reject your application.

An air ticket is a ticket or pass that is possessed by the traveller who is taking a flight for travelling from one location to another.

It is an important document and it should be submitted for the given reason

• to and from air ticket blocking (as we recommended do not book ticket until visa not approved )
• It must be confirmed for the complete round trip.

An air ticket shows your course of travel and confirms your return to the native country.

The application form filled with all the information that is necessitated to issue a visa in your name.

The visa application form is important as it contains all the required information of the applicant. It should be filled keeping in mind the following guidelines

• It must be completely filled with proper information and must be signed by the applicant.

The visa application form should be filled correctly as this information decides the fate of your visa acceptance. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

A hotel voucher is a ticket provided by the hotel of residence to the customers who are taking an accomodation in the hotel.

It should be submitted as per the following

• It must be provided to ratify the purpose of visit and as proof of accommodation as well.

If you are staying in a hotel during your time in another country, a hotel voucher must be provided as proof of accommodation.

Itinerary is a travel document that contains the details of travel schedule of the one who is going on the trip.

• The Itinerary must contain detailed information about your day-to-day plans.
• It must mention the day to day schedule and plans and program while in the country.

The itinerary must have proper and detailed information of the traveller's routine. Even if a single detail is missed out, it could affect the visa interview. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

A covering letter from the company is provided in the name of the employee if they are travelling to another country on behalf of the company for business.

The covering letter provided by the company should be acceptable based on the following conditions

• It must also mention the details of the traveller's stay in the country.
• It must contain the traveller's as well as the company's information and should be issued on the company's letterhead along with official seal and signature.

Covering letter is the first document that is seen by the consular. If the covering letter is not appropriate, it may cause your visa to get rejected as well. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

An invitation letter from company is provided at the time when a particular employee is being invited to the company or even at the times when the company is setting up a business conference or meeting inviting companies from different countries for the benefit.

The letter of invitation from the company submitted should match the following criteria

• It must contain the signature of the authority along with the designation, name of the company and the stamp.
• It must mention the contact details, the purpose of travel, sponsorship details and other important documents.
• It must be addressed to the respective diplomatic mission.

An invitation letter from a company to which are visiting is essential to provide proof of your purpose of visit.

A Company Registration or a Shop Act License is a document that is provided to the shop holders which is a proof that the shop is certified.

A Company registration or Shop Act License is an crucial commercial document that must meet the given requirements

• It must mention the name of the applicant.
• It must be issued in the English language.

If the Company Registration is not genuine, there may be issues with the business visa acceptance. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

Bank statement is a document that issued from the bank. This is obtained for the savings bank account to show ratify if you will be able to support your stay in the country.

The Bank statement is a mandatory document and it should meet the following criteria

• It must be original and should have the bank's stamp and signature on every page.

If the Bank Statement doesn't show enough funds or shows irrelevant expenditure, it could lead to visa rejection on financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

An income tax return is a document that is a record of the tax that is paid to the government by the concerned tax paying citizen.

The proof of income tax returns must match the provided parameters

• It must be provided with a legitimate documentary proof of the payment of income tax.

One cannot leave the country if they do not provide appropriate proof of tax payment. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

Contract papers are the documents that state the roles and resposibilities of the individual they are being issued to. Other details like the period of work and the validity are also mentioned in the contract papers.

• It must be original and should specify certain details about the employee and the employer.

Without the contract papers, you will not be allowed to get the visa as the contract papers decided the span of the stay and hence the visa validity. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

• It must be original and should be in a good condition.

Covering Letter consists of traveler's information, Itenarary, detailed travel Information, trip expense details and your return guarantee to the home country.

The covering letter provided by the visa applicant should be acceptable based on the following guidelines

• It must mention other details as well as per the Consular's request.
• It must mention the accommodation details of the applicant.
• It must mention the person who will be bearing all the expenses during the trip, if not travelling alone.
• It must specify the traveller's relationship with the fellow travellers if not travelling alone.
• It must clearly specify the traveller's purpose of visit.
• It must mention the travel dates as per the invitation letter or the booked flight tickets.
• It must mention all the details as per the passport.

An invitation letter from university is a document that is issued by the institute for the student or the candidate who has been invited to the university for a certain reason.

It must follow the required criteria

• It must be original and should be obtained on the letterhead specifying the traveller's purpose of visit.

Without a proper proof of your purpose for acquiring the visa, like an invitation letter from the University, the visa application may not be accepted. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

A bonafide letter is a document that is issued by the organization or educational institute the candidate belongs to in order to prove that they are a part of that organization or school and class for the given period of time.

Bonafide letter determines your credibility that you belong to the particular institution. Not being able to submit the documental proof of the same, other related documents may also get rejected.

This is a common list of documents. For specific purpose visa choose from following:

For detailed information, Please go through South Korea Visa for Indians - Definitive Guide

Eligibility for getting South Korea Visa:

In order to be eligible to travel to the country on a visa, you will have to meet the following eligibility criteria.

Be a genuine traveller- You must have a valid and good intention behind travelling to the country.

Eligible to bear all expenses - You must possess sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents throughout the stay.

Reasons to return - You must have strong ties in your home country that will ensure that you will return after your stay.

Be of good character - You must have a clean criminal track record and be of good character. You may have to provide PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) for the same.

Be in good health - You must at least meet the minimum health requirements required by the authorities.

Visa Fees for South Korea Visa:

*Important Note:

Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents or personal appearance for an interview in special cases. Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted, so It's recommonded to get the professional visa consultation. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a special visa interview may result in the rejection of your visa application .

Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care. However, regulations and requirements are subject to change.

To know all details like process, eligibility, fees etc. Please refer South Korea Visa for Indians

Applied for Dubai visa and received in 2 days flat. Thank you Navanath & Avinash for quick & reliable visa Service. No need of hard copy document & physical visits. It is also cheaper than many other travel agencies. Mr. Kapil Pailwan

Sarang, you got it done man! I had to get done my Taiwan visa. Sarang guided me very well. This visa might bring some complications in terms of medical documentation but trust me he will take you though this very well. 5 out of 5 for you, Sarang! Cheers, Warmly, BHAGYESH DEO Mr. Bhagyesh Deo

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How to Apply For a Korean Visa Without an ITR and COE?

Sample Cover Letter, Travel Itinerary & More

Disclaimer before I tell you how to apply for a Korean visa without an ITR and COE (Certificate of Employment). I had an ITR (Income Tax Return) for almost 3 years now. I use Taxumo to help me register and file in BIR. They’re godsent for freelancers like me. (You can use my code C2Q0I to get a discount.) If I had known them before I wouldn’t have applied for a Japan visa without an ITR .

Now you may be wondering if my advice here will work when I already have an ITR and got my Korean Visa approved. Well, I don’t have a COE because I’m a freelancer, while my friend who traveled with me in Korea last October doesn’t have an ITR and she’s also a freelancer like me. But please take note that approval still depends on the Korean Embassy consul.

Step by Step Guide How to Apply For a K orean Visa

Step 1: get a travel agency to help you (but walk-ins at kvac are now allowed)..

UPDATE: Starting August 29, 2023, in line with the official operation of the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC), all Korean visa applicants must submit their visa applications at KVAC (you can walk in but make sure to come very early). Applying through accredited travel agencies is back again, but if you submit through them make sure to do it at least a month before your desired travel date.

• Here is the link to the accredited travel agencies for South Korean visa applications .
• KVAC Location:
•  9F~10F, Brittany Hotel BGC, 6 Mckinley Pkwy, BGC, Taguig, Metro Manila
• Website: https://www.visaforkorea-mn.com  
• Days open: Same as the embassy’s working days. Holidays will be announced from time to time (Office hours: 09:00–17:00 but submission of application cut off is 16:30).
• Service Fee: PHP 900

Step 2: Fill out the Application Form

• Download the visa application form here .
• Must be printed on A4-size paper.
• This must be computerized or typed, NOT handwritten, and type in Block Letters or Capital Letters so make sure your keyboard’s CAPS LOCK is on.
• The font should be Arial size 12.
• For fields that do not apply to you, leave them blank.

For a step-by-step guide on how to fill up the South Korea Visa Application Form, this article by Two Monkeys Travel Group is very detailed.

Step 3: Gather the required documents

UPDATE: From February 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines will simplify visa application documents for visa applicants who meet the following conditions. Please be aware that for those who meet the following conditions, only the stated financial documents can be exempted or replaced, and other general required documents must still be submitted.

Professional license holders

○ Applicable for those holding a valid PRC license ID (IBP ID for a lawyer) with a profession of physician, dentist, lawyer (including a judge, prosecutor), certified public accountant, pharmacist, and veterinarian.

○ Required Visa Application Document

   – Certificate of employment (original) and copy of PRC license ID or IBP ID

   – Submission of bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for professional license holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

      * Exempted documents may still be submitted if preferred

Credit cardholders

○ Applicable for BDO Gold or BDO Elite Credit Card Holders (Excluding Supplementary Credit Card Holders.)

   – (Immediate family members): One’s parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), spouse’s parents

   – Certificate of employment (original), copy of credit card(front only with complete information), and latest 3 months credit card account Monthly Billing Statements(copy)

   – Submission of bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for credit card holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

You may read about this update on the Korean Embassy’s official website .

Here is the list of the South Korea Visa Application Requirements:

• As mentioned in Step 2 above.
• Must be glued on the designated area on the application’s first page.
• For the size, it should be 35×45 mm. Just tell the photo studio it’s for a Korean Visa, usually, they already have a package for it.
• Must be valid for more than 6 months from your target travel date.
• Must have a signature. The signature field is on the bottom part of Page 3 (page next to the Bio page).
• Must have filled out the Emergency Contact Page (the last page of the passport).
• Submit only if you traveled abroad within the last 5 years. If you did, submit them together with your current passport.
• Attach it to your current passport using a rubber band by tying the back cover of the new passport to the front cover of the old passport.
• The bio page is the information page of the passport (Page 2).
• Some said Japan is no longer accepted due to several cases of applicants submitting FAKE Japan visas, but I only have a Japan visa and I decided to submit it anyway.
• Having an OECD visa can increase your chances of approval.
• To see all the OECD member countries, visit  this website .
• Must include account type, current balance, account opening date, and ADB (Average Daily Balance).
• If you have a guarantor, you must submit their original copy.
• Must cover at least 3 months.
• Again, if you have a guarantor you must submit theirs.
• But if you file online like me, your ITR isn’t stamped. If you use Taxumo you can email them to request a stamped ITR but it takes at least 15 days or more. Alternatively, you can write a cover letter explaining why your ITR is not stamped. (I opted to write a cover letter because I only have 3 days to gather my requirements because my Korea was planned last minute. I put my sample cover letter below.)
• Copy of PRC Card or IBP Card (If applicable only).
• FOR EMPLOYED: Certificate of Employment (COE). Must be original; and must have the address of the employer, the landline number and email address of the employer’s HR department, the applicant’s position, the date hired, and compensation. Mobile number is not allowed.
• FOR SELF-EMPLOYED: Photocopy of the Business registration form from DTI or SEC. SEC Registration must include pages with the names of stockholders. And Photocopy of the Business permit or Mayor’s permit. And BIR Form with Corresponding Payment Receipt from a BIR-authorized bank.
• FOR FREELANCERS: The latest contracts from your clients and/or proof of revenue like a written letter (I have a sample below) that has your client’s name, company name (if they have one), landline number, email address, date hired or collaboration, and compensation. Mobile number is not also allowed here. If you’re registered to BIR, submit the forms mentioned in “self-employed” above.
• FOR HOUSEWIVES/ HOUSEHUSBANDS: Photocopy of NSO Marriage Certificate and your spouse’s documents mentioned above including ITR.
• FOR STUDENTS: Original School Certificate, Photocopy of a School ID, Photocopy of the NSO Birth Certificate of the applicant, Parent’s NSO Marriage Certificate (if applicable), and parent’s documents mentioned above including ITR.
• IF YOU HAVE A GUARANTOR: You must submit theirs.
• Not required but if you don’t have an ITR or COE, or your ITR isn’t stamped or you have a missing required document, you need to write a cover letter. (My sample cover letter is posted below.) Put this at the bottom of the application too.
• If you have a guarantor, this is where you explain your relationship with that person and why they’re shouldering your trip.
• This is not required either but I still provided one. I put this at the bottom of my application and they accepted it when I submitted my application. (My sample itinerary is posted below.)

NOTE: For family applications, you must provide documents that can serve as proof of your relationship. Birth certificates and marriage contracts are accepted. A representative can file for the whole family.

STEP 4: Submit the documents and wait

If you’re going to submit it yourself, make sure to put them in an envelope and don’t fold the documents. Do not staple it either, use a paper clip instead for documents that have more than one page.

If you’re going to submit through a travel agency, they will check the documents before you leave.

Processing time depends. In my experience, my friend and I decided to submit it ourselves to the embassy and after 5 days we already got our result by checking our status on the Korean Embassy website here . But the people I know who submitted this 2024, it took them 1 week to get the result.

For travel agencies, it’s around 15 days, but it also depends on your travel agency’s backlog. For October and November make sure to submit at least a month before your desired travel month because a lot of people apply during those months for the Chuseok holiday and autumn season.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR KOREA VISA APPLICATION

If you could notice, in the second paragraph I mentioned my purpose of entry, low-key implying that I’m going back to my country and I will be spending money in their country. I don’t guarantee it’ll 100% convince the consul but so far it worked on me both in Korea and Japan tourist visa applications.

SAMPLE OF PROOF OF REVENUE FOR FREELANCERS

Don’t forget to ask your client to put their logo and company name on top of the “Proof of Revenue” and don’t forget to ask them to sign it too. A digital signature is accepted because some freelancers have clients based abroad, as long as the company has a business number or email address.

If you’re going to use Klook to book train passes and attraction tickets, don’t forget to use my code “ALYRECOMMEND” to get 5% off.

Sample korea travel itinerary.

This is the actual travel itinerary that I submitted to the Korean Embassy and the same one I showed to the Immigration Officer in NAIA Terminal 1. The decoration is not necessary, I just want to express my excitement. I made this using Canva .

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION S

Q: Should I book plane tickets before applying for a visa?

A: No, it is not necessary. The Korean Embassy discourages applicants from booking plane tickets before applying for a visa. There’s even a post about it taped outside their office.

Q: How much money should I show in my bank certificate?

A: People suggest your bank account should have at least Php10,000 per person per day during your intended stay. So if you’re planning to stay for 5 days, you should at least have Php50,000 in your bank account. But just to be sure, you should aim for a higher amount than settle for the minimum amount required especially now that they’re super strict on approving tourist visas due to an increasing amount of people illegally staying to work in their country.

Q: Can I submit more than one bank certificate?

A: Yes, you can. I submitted 2 bank certificates. The important thing is your statement of account. They look at how your money comes in and out. I’ve heard of people getting rejected because of a sudden huge deposit in their accounts. So to be safe, I just submitted all my bank accounts instead of doing a huge transfer.

Q: Should my bank account be 6 months old upon application?

This is actually on a case-to-case basis. I’ve heard people with bank accounts that are only 1-3 months old getting approved. It depends on your supporting documents.

If you have more questions about the Korean visa application, you can join this private group on Facebook that helped me a lot with the Korean Embassy updates and other members sharing their experiences.

What Should You Book in Klook For Your Korea Trip?

My friends and I did a BTS Trip (which I will blog about later) since we went there for the concert. But here are the things we booked in Klook that were very helpful going around Korea. (Don’t forget to use my Klook code “ALYRECOMMEND” to get 5% off.):

• SIM CARD – I highly recommend sim cards over rental WiFi device (if your phone is not locked by a network) because you don’t need a credit card deposit, if you get separated from your companions you have a way to contact them, and you don’t have to return it.
• AREX Incheon Express – This is a train station inside the Incheon Airport that will bring you straight to Seoul Station. No need to worry about catching a bus or booking a taxi.
• T-Money Card – This is like a beep card. You can use this in trains, buses, and taxis. You can buy this in convenience stores especially those limited editions with kpop groups. But if you want one before leaving the airport, you can buy one in Klook too.
• N Seoul Tower Ticket – If you’re a Kdrama fan, then this is a must-see place. This is the famous spot where lovers leave love locks.
• Hanbok Rental – Live your period kdrama fantasies, be a main character with a beautiful hanbok rental, and take photos in Changdeok Palace.

You can search for more activities in Korea through Klook below:

So these are the required documents, processes, and frequently asked questions on how to apply for a korean visa without an itr and coe. i hope this post will help. good luck, style vanity.

How to Apply For Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Tourist Visa for Filipinos

In the application form, there’s no indication if you are applying for a single or multiple South Korea Tourist Visa. Whether you apply for a Single or Multiple, it is the discretion of the Embassy to grant you one. But, if you want to have a chance to be given a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa, read this article.

In this article, we will be focusing on a Tourist Visa . Multiple Entry Visa holders can stay in South Korea for a maximum of 30 days. The validity of the visa depends on your eligibility as well as your passport’s validity. Check out how you can get yours now!

Korean Embassy Update (May 19, 2022): Multiple entry visa issued before 5 April 2020 that has not expired can be used without re-application.

ADVISORY: As per Embassy of South Korea, starting August 23, 2022 , visa processing is 25-30 working days.  

• How to Apply For A South Korea Tourist Visa with Your Philippines Passport
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Table of Contents

How to be Eligible for Multiple Entry South Korea Visa

If you want to have big chances of getting a Multiple Entry South Korea Visa, you must be any of the following:

Frequent Visitor

As per this notice :

• Those who visited Korea more than 4 times within the last 2 years from application date
• Those who visited Korea more than 10 times in total and at least once in the previous two years

BDO Credit Card Holders

Credit Card Holders of:

• Visa Credit Card
• MasterCard Credit Card
• UnionPay Credit Card
• JCB Credit Card
• American Express Gold Credit Card
• Platinum Visa Credit Card
• Titanium, Platinum and World Elite MasterCard
• American Express​ Platinum Credit Card
• Cathay Pacific American Express Credit Cards (Standard and Elite)
• American Express International Dollar Charge Cards
• Diamond UnionPay
• Diners Club Premiere
• JCB Platinum

Requirements:

• Credit card’s Monthly Billing for the last 3 months
• Photocopy of the Credit Card
• This is only up to December 31, 2022
• Bank Certificate and Income Tax Returns are not required for submission in case you avail this
• Read more here

RCBC Bankard Premium Card Holders

Active and Principal Card Holders of:

• World MasterCard (including co-brands Balesin and The City Club)
• Black Platinum MasterCard
• Diamond Platinum MasterCard
• Visa Infinite
• Visa Platinum
• UnionPay Diamond BDO Elite
• This is only up to December 31, 2020

Note: Links from notice to RCBC card holders are currently unavailable. Thank you for understanding. 

Requirements for applying for multiple entry south korea visa.

1. Valid passport – should be valid for more than 6 months

2. Filled-up Visa Application Form – Here’s a document version that is easier to edit. Don’t forget to sign it. Here’s a guide on  How to Fill Out a South Korea Visa Application Form [Step by Step Guide] .

3. Passport-Sized Photo – 1 piece, colored

4. Valid Visa or Arrival Stamps to any OECD Countries for the past five years – original and photocopy. OECD countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, and US.

P.S. If you are a frequent traveler, you may also submit the valid visa or arrival stamps of your previous visits to South Korea

5. Bank Certificate – Include current balance, account type, and ADB. However, you may skip this when you are an eligible credit cardholder.

6. Bank Statement – for the last 3 months, in case you are an eligible credit card holder, submit your credit card statements for the previous 3 months

Supporting Documents

• Income Tax Return – you are exempt if you are an eligible cardholder
• If you are an Employee – Original copy of Certificate of Employment – with applicant’s position, date hired, compensation, office address, H.R. landline (not cellphone number), and H.R. e-mail address must be included.
• If you are a Business Owner – Business Registration and Business Permit
• Copy of IBP Card or PRC Card (only if applicable)
• If you want to apply, you can also make a cover letter stating that you wish to a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa and the reasons
• You can also attach your flight reservations , hotel bookings, and attraction tickets
• There is no visa fee for a stay of fewer than 59 days, but you’ll pay the travel agency about PHP 500 – PHP 2000

STEP by STEP Guide In Getting a Multiple Entry South Korea Visa

STEP 1: Gather the documents needed.

STEP 2: Find an accredited travel agency to process your application.

STEP 3: Wait for the decision.

STEP 4: Claim your passport with your visa at the travel agency.

Addresses that could help you

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634 +63-2-8856-9210

Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Cebu 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo, Cebu City +63-32-231-1516(-9)

Good luck with your application for a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa. It’s a handy tool, especially if you want to visit South Korea in every season. It’s also a great key in case you want to watch a concert or attend fan meets of KPop Idols. I hope this is helpful! Happy Travels!

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5 thoughts on “ How to Apply For Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Tourist Visa for Filipinos ”

Until Dec 2022 pa ba yung sa bdo credit card holder ? Wala na kasi dun sa link na nka attached … TIA.

Hi! If multiple entry 30 days 5 years, does it mean you can enter multiple times and each time hindi lalagpas ng 30 days; or cumulative ang 30? TIA

How to apply fo five year multiple entry. Thank you

Hi, pag kakapundar palang ng business at wala pang itr maipakita?

Write a cover letter then lahat ng permits.

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Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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What requirements should I submit if I have a sponsor?

Even if someone will sponsor your trip, you still need to submit both your own and your sponsor’s financial and employment documents. Click here for the complete list of Korean tourist visa requirements . 

Aside from the basic requirements, you should also submit the following:

• Sponsor/Guarantee letter – a letter from your sponsor explaining how he/she will cover the expenses of your trip to South Korea.
• Photocopy of the sponsor’s passport (bio page only). Otherwise, you can submit a photocopy of any government-issued ID.

Note also that only immediate family and employers can be your sponsor.  If the sponsor is neither an employer nor an immediate family member (e.g., a boyfriend/girlfriend), you may still proceed with the application but there’s no guarantee that it will be approved. 

If your parent, sibling, child, or spouse will sponsor you, submit a birth certificate or marriage certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority as your proof of relationship.

If your employer will support your travel, submit its business documents and a sponsorship letter with the company letterhead.

Go back to the main article: How to Get Korean Visa in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

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• General Guide
• Application
• Check Application Status
• Immigrant Investor
• Help Center
• Korea Visa Application Center

e-Visa Application via the Visa Portal

Visa application via korean diplomatic missions abroad, confirmation of visa issuance application via the visa portal.

• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration

1. Application Process

Select “Application” >> “E-Visa(Individual)” on the Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

2. Applicant

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor on behalf of the foreigner

3. Applicable Status of Stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), and Professional (E-5) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign Notional of Special Ability (E-7) visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must be an expert in advanced science and technology and have an official employment recommendation letter (a.k.a. GOLD CARD)
• Short-term General (C-3-1) Visa for a prospective investor invited by a promotion agency of the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business and his/her accompanying family members
• Short-term Group Tourist (C-3-2) Visa for Chinese group tourists who can apply for their Visa through a designated travel agency
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’ designated as e-Visa agency.

- Qualifications : A foreigner who has entered Korea 3 times or more with a Short-term (C-3) Visa since the implementation of the fingerprint confirmation system for foreigner on Jan. 1, 2012, and who has no history of illegal stay or criminal cases

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details.

4. Required Documents

• Visa Application Form (electronic form on the Visa Portal)
• Scanned image files of passport pages
• Digital Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)
• Fee (credit card for e-Payment)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of visa on the Visa Navigator or to the Visa Information on the website of a respective diplomatic office.

5. Procedure

Application by the applicant

• 1. Applicant - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 2. Applicant - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 3. Applicant - Submission of Application (Visa portal)
• 4. sponsor (corporation/individual) - Confirmation Invitation (Visa portal)
• 5. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 7. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 8. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

Application by the sponsor (inviter)

• 1. sponsor - Login (Visa portal)
• 2. sponsor - completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. sponsor - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 4. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 5. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 7. Applicants - Arrival in Korea (Visa portal)

1. Application process

Select “Application" >> "Confirmation of Visa Issuance” on Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

Application must be filed by the inviter (sponsor)

3. Applicable status of stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4) Professional (E-5) for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must have an occupation under category 1 (executives) or 2 (professionals or related) of the Standard Classification of Occupation announced by the National Statistical Office
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’
• Business Visitor (C-3-6) visa for an invitee of a VIP corporation
• Student (D-2) and Korean Language Trainee (D-4-1) visa
• Non-professional(E-9) and Maritime Crew (E-10) visa

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more detail.

• Application form for Confirmation of Visa Issuance (electronic form on the Visa Portal)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of Visa on the Visa Navigator, or to the Visa information on the board of the respective website of the Diplomatic Office.

• 2. sponsor - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 4. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 5. sponsor, Applicant - Download Visa application Form (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor - Submission of Visa Application & Payment
• 7. Visa Consul - Visa issuance (Diplomatic Office)

6. Check the Result of Your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application

You can check the result of your application – through “Application Status” via the Visa Portal, ARS (02-2650-6363), text message or e-mail address you gave us.

7. Visa Application

• The sponsor (inviter) must download Visa application form (for the applicant) from “Application Status” on the Visa Portal, and send it to the applicant via email, or inform him/her of the number and expiry date of the confirmation of visa issuance.
• The applicant must receive Visa application form for the confirmation of visa issuance or its number (expiry date) from the sponsor in Korea in order to apply for his/her visa at the Korean Embassy or Consulate General.

Confirmation of Visa issuance is valid for 3 months, and is effective for visa issuance just for once. For any other inquiries, please contact the Immigration Contact center (+1345 without an area code or +82+1345 if you are calling from abroad).

1. Location of Application

Korean Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country (or area) of residence.

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or a visa agency on behalf of the foreigner

• A single-entry or multiple-entry visa for eligible applicants of Diplomat(A-1), Government Official(A-2) Visa
• A single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less), for eligible applicants of - Short-term News Coverage (C-1), Short-term General (C-3) and Short-term Employee (C-4)
• A multiple-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Short-term News Coverage (C-1) and Short-term General (C-3) Visa who are citizens of countries that have multiple-entry visa agreements with Korea.
• Visas issued at the discretion of the head of a Korean diplomatic mission abroad, such as single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Korean Arts and Culture (D-1) Visa who are planning to engage in cultural arts activities upon invitation of the Korea Foundation or from Korean Culture and Arts Committee

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details

• Visa Application Form (application form No.17, or please click the ‘Application’ menu on the Visa Portal >> Fill out the electronic form)
• Photo (natural color, 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- You can pay the fee in the currency of your own country only if you receive permission from the head of the Korean diplomatic mission in your country.

The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. Depending on the circumstances of one’s country, the head of the Korean diplomatic mission may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation. Therefore, in the case that required documents on the Visa Navigator do not match with those of the diplomatic mission, please follow the instructions and requirements provided by the respective diplomatic mission.

• 1. Applicant - Submission of Application
• 2. Visa Consul - Reception & Review (Diplomatic Office)
• 3. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 4. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

※ For any other inquiries, please contact the consular affair Korean diplomatic missions in your country of residence.

Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration Offices

Korean Immigration Office that has jurisdiction over the area of inviter’s residence

2. Applicants

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor/agency (E-9, E-10) on behalf of the foreigner

• Long-term Korean Arts and Culture (D-1), Student (D-2), Industrial trainee (D-3), General trainee (D-4), Long-term News Coverage (D-5), Religious Worker (D-6), Intra-company Transferee (D-7), Corporate/Foreign investor (D-8), International Trade (D-9), Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), Professional (E-5), Artists/Athlete (E-6), Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7), Non-professional (E-9), Maritime Crew (E-10), Family Visitor (F-1), Dependent Family (F-3), Miscellaneous (G-1), and Work and Visit (H-2) Visa for eligible applicants
• Long-term Visa for citizens of countries with no formal diplomatic relations with Korea, or just specific countries (i.e. Cuba, Syria, and Macedonia) designated by the Korean government.
• Other people recognized by the Minister of Justice as needed
• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application Form (Form No.21)
• Photocopy of passport pages
• Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. The head of the immigration office may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation.

• The employment certificate and a copy of the representative’s ID, and a letter of attorney are required if the representative applies on behalf of the applicant. (Representative’s application may be restricted when further evaluation is required)

5. Procedures

• 1. sponsor - Completion of Application Form
• 2. Visa official - Reception & Review (Jurisdiction office)
• 3. sponsor, Applicant - Sending Confirmation No
• 4. Application - Submission (Diplomatic Office)
• 5. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 6. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

6. Notification of evaluation results

7. Visa Issuance

• Terms and Conditions
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• Prohibition of Unauthorized Collection of E-mail Address

Building#1, Government Complex-Gwacheon, 47, Gwanmun-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea ( Immigration Contact Center : +82-1345 )

COPYRIGHT©MINISTRY OF JUSTICE. REPUBLIC OF KOREA. ALL RIGHT RESERVED.

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Korean Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in Manila, Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)

by Aileen Adalid Visa Guides & Immigration , South Korea 300 comments

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LATEST UPDATE: The Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in BGC will now be handling all Korean visa-related applications and the release of passports instead of the South Korean embassy (the embassy will no longer process visa applications except for special cases). The good news? There’s NO need to book an appointment and you can just walk in to KVAC directly to lodge your application.

I’m sure that a majority of us Filipinos have encountered Korean influences at some point in our lives, may it be through K-Pop , K-dramas ( Koreanovelas ), cosmetic products, or food (among many others).

Due to these things as well as other factors, South Korea has remained a dream destination for many — but for those who want to make it a reality, there is the question of how our weak Philippine  third world passports can fare when it comes to entry or visa matters. Don’t fret though because applying for a South Korean visa is easy and also FREE!

RELATED READ : – South Korea Itinerary Travel Guide – How to Explore Nami Island, Petite France, and More! – How to Rent a ‘Hanbok’

Looking for Seoul Itinerary Ideas?

Come and check out my ‘ DIY Seoul Itinerary Guide ’ post which features detailed day-by-day activities that you could do, no matter the length of your stay!

The application process is SO simple and starting this 2018, the Korean Embassy is coursing applications through travel agencies (much like how the Japan Embassy does). As such, with the help of this guide, let us make your South Korea travel dreams come true!

…But first, a disclaimer :

NO ONE  can give you a guarantee of your South Korean visa’s approval: not even a lawyer, a consultant, a travel agent, or an embassy employee. Anyone who says otherwise is most likely going to be a scammer. That being said, what I can offer you here is a comprehensive guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that South Korean tourist visa.

Top photo by: Shutterstock

Table of Contents

ApplicationProcess for South Korean Visa

Step 1: determine the type of south korean visa that you need to apply for.

There are, of course, various types of South Korean visas out there that you can apply for: a visa for studying, a visa for business, a visa for joining family, etc.

For this particular guide though, I will only be discussing the requirements for a tourist visa  since it’s an experience that I’ve gone through myself.

If, however, you have a different situation or purpose of visit, it’s best that you contact the South Korea Embassy for more information and for the complete requirements. You can do this via telephone ([02] 856-9210, local no. 270 or 500) or via email:  [email protected]

– – –

Step 2: Prepare the required documents for your application

Depending on your circumstance, click the symbol ‘ + ‘ below to view the corresponding requirements for each section. Make sure that you have authentic, original, and complete documents at all times!

(Section A)  South Korea Tourist Visa WITHOUT  Any Guarantor/Sponsor

• Philippine Passport.  Make sure that your passport is valid for more than 6 months prior to your intended travel date, it has your signature, filled out the emergency contact page, and has at least two (2) blank pages. .
• Photocopy of current Philippine Passport bio page.   This is found on page 2 (the part where your passport photo and other info are shown). .
• If applicable, previous Philippine Passport(s) .  You only need to submit this if you have traveled abroad within the last 5 years. .
• Doing this will help expedite the processing time of your visa.
• When I say ‘original’, this means that you will have to submit the passport(s) that contains the OECD visas and arrival stamps (no matter if they are your old or current passport[s]).
• Only used visas are counted.
• It is said that you are NO longer required to submit an ITR if you have traveled at least once to OECD member countries in the past 5 years — or have traveled to South Korea for more than two times within the last 4 years. .
• Both the IBP (Integrated Bar of the Philippines) and PRC (Professional Regulation Commission) cards are identification cards issued by professional regulatory bodies. The former is for lawyers and the latter is for certified professionals such as nurses or engineers who’ve passed their respective licensure exams. .
• Download the application form here: PDF .
• Print the application form on an A4-sized paper.
• Do NOT write outside the boxes and do NOT handwrite your application form (except for your signature) .
• If anything is not applicable to you, just put N/A.
• There is a part in Section 2 that asks for “Confirmation of Visa Issuance”. Just leave it blank or put N/A because this is basically info that’s only issued in Korea (most likely for Koreans only).
• See here for a SAMPLE filled-out application form: [ click ] and click the tab that says “Visa Application Form Sample”.
• There are sections here that ask for your address/hotel in South Korea as well as your intended date of entry and period of stay. Now regarding this.. .

You are NOT required to present “booked” airline and hotels beforehand because the embassy does NOT require applicants to book it before approval. It might sometimes help to present a flight reservation though, and you can do this easily with One Way Fly with a fee that is as low as Php 900~ only. . Once your South Korean visa is approved, check Skyscanner  to look for the best flight deals. As for hotel bookings, it’s best to do it with Booking.com or Agoda.com . With them, you can reserve a hotel with NO pre-payment and you can even cancel the booking a day before your arrival with NO cancellation charges at all.

• 1 Passport-sized photo.   This should be around 35mm x 45mm, colored, and against a white background. Paste this on your South Korea visa application form. .
• However, if you are a freelancer or if you have missing documents that you can’t submit such as an ITR, a Certificate of Employment, etc. — it is, therefore, a MUST that you submit a cover letter to the embassy to explain your situation.
• As for the itinerary, there have been some cases wherein some applicants were asked to submit a rough draft of their South Korea itinerary; so it’s best to prepare this just in case. .
• Original personal bank certificate: this must indicate your account type, current balance, account opening date, and 6 months average balance (ADB).
• Original or certified true copy of your Bank Statement or passbook for the last 3 months.
• Original Certificate of Employment: this must be printed on your company’s official letterhead and must contain details of your officer or employer’s address, HR landline number (cellphone number is not allowed) , HR email address, your position, your hiring date, and your salary.
• Photocopy of your ITR (or Form 2316)
• If you do NOT have an ITR or any of the other requirements above, write a simple letter explaining why you’re unable to submit them ( examples: you’re newly employed so you don’t have an ITR, etc. ). .
• Original personal bank certificate: this must indicate your account type, current balance, account opening date, and 6 months’ average balance (ADB).
• If you own a business , submit photocopies of your Business Registration issued by DTI / SEC, the company ITR, and your Business Permit or Mayor’s Permit.
• If you’re a freelancer , provide the latest photocopy of your ITR (or Form 1701A) with a corresponding payment receipt from a BIR-authorized bank and proof of work ( examples: screenshots of your work, a letter from clients, proof of payments for your work, etc. ).
• It is said that the only time you are exempt from submitting an ITR is if you have traveled to OECD countries in the past 5 years.
• Start filing your local taxes as early as NOW — after all, a lot of embassies (not only Korea) require an ITR. So if you’re looking for a hassle-free experience on Philippines tax compliance, I suggest registering with Taxumo because they can take care of literally everything for you: tax forms, payments, and submissions. I’ve been using them for years now and it has been such a time-saver. Come sign up with my code AILEEN and you can get a 10% discount on all their subscription plans!
• Photocopy of your senior citizen ID. .
• Given the way the Embassy of South Korea presents its requirements for visa applicants, it’s best that you acquire a guarantor/sponsor who can provide an ITR. Refer to section (B) below for this. .
• Refer to ‘Section (B)’ below. .
• ELECTED POLITICIANS: Members of the Senate, Members of the Congress, Governors, Provincial Board Members, and Mayors (City or Municipality) — along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents
• GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS: Persons with a rank higher or equal to Assistant Secretary of the Executive Branch of the Philippine Government, and Brigadier General of the Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police (excluding those in acting duties) — along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents
• PROFESSIONAL LICENSE HOLDERS: Those holding a valid PRC license ID (IBP ID for lawyer) with a profession of physician, dentist, lawyer (including judge, prosecutor) , certified public accountant, pharmacist, and veterinarian— along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents. .
• Mastercard Gold Credit Card
• Visa Gold Credit Card
• JCB Gold Credit Card
• UnionPay Gold Credit Card
• Diners Club International
• American Express Cashback Credit Card
• American Express Explorer Credit Card
• Mastercard Titanium, Platinum and World Elite Credit Card
• Visa Platinum Credit Card
• JCB Platinum Credit Card
• UnionPay Diamond Credit Card
• Diners Club Premiere Credit Card
• American Express Platinum Credit Card
• American Express International Dollar Charge Cards (platinum, gold, and green) .
• (OPTIONAL) Letter of Attorney.  This is only if you’re planning to course your application through a travel agency, you will need to sign this Letter of Attorney .

* * * * * *

(Section B)  South Korea Tourist Visa WITH  Any Guarantor/Sponsor

This kind of application is applicable for  students, minors, unemployed persons, husband/wife (if one of you will be supporting the other),   self-employed persons/freelancers  (who can’t provide an ITR and have no strong reason why they can’t submit it) or just about any person who will take on a sponsor. This also applies to anyone who would have a company/agency to sponsor the trip.

For submitting the necessary requirements, simply submit the requirements listed in section (A), numbers #1 to #8.   And when it comes to  (#9)   Proof of income or financial stability , you should ask these documents from your guarantor/sponsor as dependent on their profession or occupation — this could be your mom, dad, brother, sister, friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, relative, etc.

Take note though that there are no guarantees of approval if your guarantor is NOT a family member of yours. In fact, it is said that it’s a lot better to have family sponsoring you.

Moving on, you should also submit the following…

• Sponsor/Guarantee letter.  This is a simple letter written by your sponsor indicating and confirming how he/she will cover the costs of your South Korea trip. .
• If your sponsor is a company in Korea, provide a photocopy of their Korean Company Business Permit .

TIP: If your sponsor is your brother/sister, you must also submit their birth certificate to the embassy.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

• …resident, you must submit an invitation letter and a photocopy of his/her passport or authentication ID
• …national, you must submit an invitation letter and photocopy of his/her passport or ID card.
• …company, you must submit an invitation letter and a photocopy of the Korean company’s business permit. .
• If you are married, submit a photocopy of your NSO Marriage Certificate. .
• Original school certificate.
• Photocopy of your school ID.
• Photocopy of your NSO-issued birth certificate.
• If your parents are your sponsor, provide a photocopy of an NSO-issued marriage certificate.
• If your sponsor is other than your parents, explain your relationship with that person through a cover letter.

(Section C)  South Korea Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

The South Korean Embassy only issues multiple-entry visas under certain conditions. Currently, there are 2 ways to avail this….

FIRST ,  by being a frequent South Korea traveler. Basically, it is said that if you have visited South Korea more than 4 times in the past 2 years OR if you have visited South Korea more than 10 times in total (with at least 1 of the visits done within the past 2 years), then you are suitable for a multiple-entry application.

SECOND ,  it is said that if you show or submit proof that you have OECD visas in the past 5 years, the embassy can automatically just issue you a multiple-entry tourist visa. (Yet to be fully confirmed but there have been cases in which this happens).

NOTE :  If in case you are a Philippine national living or residing in a foreign country and you wish to avail a South Korea tourist visa, kindly inquire with the appropriate South Korean Embassy in the country that you’re living in.

Step 3: Go to KVAC and submit your documents

Starting September 2023, the South Korean Embassy has officially inaugurated the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC). Going forward, ALL visa applicants must now process their applications through this center either:

• By themselves; or,
• See here for a complete list of these 35 accredited agencies)

It helps to note that visa applications for diplomatic passport holders, official passport holders, and for those who require a visa urgently within 1 to 2 days due to clear humanitarian reasons will be the only ones who are exceptionally accepted at the embassy. Additionally, KVAC is only providing visa processing assistance; hence, the approval or denial of your visa is solely at the discretion of the Embassy of Korea after reviewing your documents.

In my opinion, filing for a visa application by yourself presents absolutely NO issues. In fact, choosing to go through a travel agency primarily ONLY helps if you can’t personally visit KVAC to submit your application. Remember , much like KVAC, travel agencies only facilitate document submission for an additional fee and they have NO influence over the visa application’s decision.

• VISA PROCESSING FEES: A South Korean Visa is FREE of charge as long as you are only going to stay 59 days or less; however, KVAC as well as travel agencies charge for the service that they offer for processing your application. . KVAC currently only charges Php 900 as a service fee (they ONLY accept cash). As for other travel agencies, they typically charge about Php 500 to Php 2,000 as an additional fee on top of the KVAC service fee. (Meanwhile, for stays spanning from 60 to 90 days, the embassy will charge you a fee of about Php 2,000.) .

Take note that the consulate in Cebu still accepts direct applications — you can also course your application through their own accredited travel agencies, the list of which you can find here .

For the complete address details of KVAC and the Cebu Consulate, see below:

KVAC (Korea Visa Application Center) 9F~10F, Brittany Hotel BGC, 6 Mckinley Pkwy, BGC, Taguig, Metro Manila Website: https://www.visaforkorea-mn.com Email: [email protected] Telephone: 02-8248-5440 Operation hours: 09:00AM to 17:30PM (except for Philippine & Korea holidays) . KOREAN CONSULATE IN CEBU 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Cebu Email Address: [email protected] Contact No.: (63-32) 231-1516(-9)

• CUT OFF TIME FOR VISA APPLICATIONS AT KVAC: 4:00PM
• Please take note that in case you are a group of applicants for a family trip or business trip, one of the applicants may submit ALL of your applications. But if you wish to submit visa applications through a representative (someone who isn’t coming with you on the trip) , you must submit your applications to one of the designated travel agencies mentioned above.

Once you arrive at KVAC, the process usually goes like this:

• Upon arrival, a guard in the lobby will provide you with a queuing number. (Most people will already be here by 8AM to line up, and even though the official opening time is 9AM, KVAC may already start distributing and calling queuing numbers at 8:30AM).
• You can then head to Level 2, a waiting area furnished with chairs and featuring a café station. Your companions can stay here to wait, but only the visa applicants with queuing numbers can proceed to Level 9 when their number is called.
• A staff person will regularly come to Level 2 to call out numbers. When yours is called, proceed to Level 9.
• Another staff person will receive your documents for preliminary checking. Once done, you will be given a new queue number.
• In a separate room, keep an eye out for your queue number once it flashes on the screen with its assigned counter. Once called, proceed to Level 10.
• Take note, any original document that you submit will NOT be returned to you — except for your passport.
• If you like, you can receive your results and passport via courier service for an added fee of Php 300 (within Metro Manila, sent within 3-5 working days) or Php 400 (outside Metro Manila, sent within 5-7 working days).
• If in case you have missing documents, KVAC also has a photocopy and printing service for Php 10 per page (payable by cash only).
• You will be given an Application Receipt with a barcode — keep this because it will be important when claiming your passport and visa application results later.

Step 4: Claim your South Korean visa results

Typically, the processing time for visas is 5 working days , but due to the increased volume of applicants, expect it to go for as long as 10 working days or more .

Rest assured, KVAC will regularly send you the status of your application via SMS.

• If you’re personally going to pick up your visa results and passport, just bring a valid government ID as well as the Application Receipt.
• If someone else will pick up your results on your behalf, the representative needs to present the Application Receipt, a photocopy of your ID, an original copy of the ID of the representative, and a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA).
• If you lose the Application Receipt, please secure a Police Report with a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA).

Should your application be approved (yay!), make sure that your South Korean visa has your correct name, passport number, etc.

• Wanna track the status of your application online? Go to this page !

2020 UPDATE: The Embassy will NO longer issue a visa label for visa applications processed in the Philippines as of July 1, 2020. If your application is approved, the embassy will notify you by issuing a ‘Visa Grant Notic e’ on the official website . From there, you can print out the visa document by entering your passport number, date of birth, and other relevant information. . The Visa Grant Notice will contain your personal details including name, date of birth, and passport number, as well as other details including visa issuance number, status of stay, period of stay, number of allowed entries, date of issue, validity of visa, and issuing authority. (Simply PRINT the Visa Grant Notice and present it to immigration officers before your flight and after arrival).

What to Do in South Korea…?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in South Korea which features the best activities and tours to do in places like Seoul, Busan, and more!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended period of stay.

You can apply as early as two (2) months or 60 days before your planned trip date departure.

There really is NO best travel agency out there when it comes to visa approval because they have NO control whatsoever over that matter. Again, these accredited travel agencies simply  ensure that the documents you are going to give are complete. After which, they just pass it to the embassy who makes the analysis and final decision.

In case you are a group of friends with similar plane ticket dates, or if you are a group going for a family trip or business trip, only 1 (one) from your group of visa applicants may submit ALL of your applications. But if you wish to submit visa applications through a representative (someone who isn’t coming with you on the trip), you must rather submit your applications to one of the designated travel agencies mentioned above.

All tourist visa holders of a single-entry visa are permitted to stay in South Korea for a maximum period of 59 days.

There seems to be NO existing rule for a “break period” when you want to enter South Korea again — however, take note that if you enter the country again too soon, that will raise questions and the immigration might not let you in. Also, take note that you should NOT spend more than 180 days total in a year in South Korea as a tourist.

Please refer to the info I mentioned above under step #4.

The embassy does NOT require applicants to submit “booked” roundtrip flight tickets and hotel(s) before applying for a visa. It might sometimes help to present a flight reservation and you can do this easily with One Way Fly which has a fee that is as low as Php 900~ only.

This is NOT required, but it’s always good practice to prepare it just in case. To see an example cover letter, you can check the letter I submitted for my Korean visa application at this link .

The South Korean Embassy did NOT mention any minimum balance requirement, but some people have been saying that you need to have at least Php 10,000 per day of your stay — you can use this as a standard but of course, it’s always best if you have more. The way I see it, there’s no amount that will guarantee approval. Just ensure that you have complete documents and have enough pocket money to support yourself during your trip.

You can go to this page .

Sorry to hear that. Either way, you can reapply again after 3 months.

» Top South Korea Tours «

N Seoul Tower Tour Marvel at the breathtaking views of Seoul!

Nami Island Tour + stops to Garden of Morning Calm and more!

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for South Korea?

Check out my other detailed South Korea travel guides !

As you can see, applying for a South Korea Tourist Visa is fast and easy — you can do it all by yourself! All in all, I hope the process becomes absolutely hassle-free for you with the help of this visa guide.

Let me know how it goes… good luck!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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Hello! There is a newly opened visa center in BGC that already allows walk in. I haven’t tried it yet and i am interested to go there instead of a travel agency…just saw it in the news. Do you have any idea about how it goes there?

Hey Mariae! Yes, there is! I have already updated this guide regarding this new process. Hope this helps!

Hello, we had visited South Korea last December 2019. We are planning to visit again in December 2023. Do we still need to get a new VISA? Thank you

If you were only issued a single-entry visa, then yes you still need to apply for a new visa. (So unless it says multiple-entry on your visa, then you do not need to apply again as long as it’s within the validity period).

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