South Korea is a popular destination for Indian travellers, offering a mix of modern cities, Korean culture, historic landmarks, shopping, food, and entertainment. From Seoul’s royal palaces and traditional neighbourhoods to scenic destinations beyond the capital, the country offers a variety of experiences. Travellers planning a South Korea Tourist Visa from India can review the applicable visa requirements, documents, fees, and application process before their trip.
Indian travellers visit South Korea for holidays, family vacations, sightseeing, shopping, cultural experiences, and leisure. Depending on the duration and purpose of the trip, travellers can plan an itinerary around Seoul or include other destinations across the country.
Seaman Tours provides assistance with the South Korea tourist visa application from India, including document guidance, application preparation, and travel-document checks. Requirements may vary by visa category and individual circumstances, while final visa approval remains subject to the relevant Korean authorities.
Tourist Visa
15 to 30 Working Days
90 Days*
Single Entry / Multiple Entry
Up to 90 Days
₹3,999* Onwards
*Visa validity, stay duration, processing times, entry conditions, and fees are indicative and may vary based on immigration regulations and individual application circumstances.
The South Korea tourist visa is intended for eligible travelers visiting the country for short-term tourism and related permitted activities. The C-3-9 category is commonly used for tourism, while other short-term visitor categories apply to different travel purposes.
South Korea suits travelers looking for a combination of city sightseeing, Korean heritage, shopping, food, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Applicants should prepare their itinerary and supporting documents carefully so that the information in the application reflects the actual purpose of the trip.
Travelers planning East and Southeast Asia trips may also browse our International Visas and destination guides for Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam for visa information, travel planning ideas, and destination-specific guidance.
South Korea offers different visa categories based on the purpose of travel, intended stay, and the applicant’s circumstances.
The C-3-9 visa is intended for eligible travellers visiting South Korea for tourism, sightseeing, and other permitted short-term activities. The standard single-entry visa is generally valid for three months, with the permitted stay determined by the visa issued.
Eligible Indian travellers may be able to apply for a multiple-entry C-3 visa. Certain eligible applicants may receive a visa with longer validity and multiple permitted entries, subject to the applicable Korean visa requirements and approval.
Other C-3 visa categories cover specific purposes, such as visiting family or relatives, business activities, and other permitted short-term visits. Applicants should select the visa category that accurately reflects their purpose of travel.
Visa fees for South Korea vary depending on the visa type and processing option selected.
|
Visa Type |
Standard Fee |
Express Fee |
|
Short-Term Single Entry |
₹3,600 |
₹6,300 |
|
Long-Term Single Entry |
₹5,400 |
₹8,100 |
|
Multiple Entry |
₹8,100 |
₹11,700 |
A service fee of ₹1,380 applies in addition to the applicable visa fee. Other service or processing charges may vary depending on the visa category and services selected.
Applicants should prepare clear and complete documents based on their visa category, employment status, and individual circumstances. The required documents may vary, and additional supporting documents may be requested during the application process.
Self-Employed Applicants: Company Income Tax Returns for the last 3 years, latest 6 months company bank statement, company registration or incorporation certificate, and a brief company profile.
South Korea visa applications from India currently require at least three weeks for processing from the date of submission, based on working days. Applications are submitted through the designated Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) operated by VFS Global.
Processing may take longer depending on the visa category, application volume, document verification, additional requirements, or individual assessment. Applicants should therefore submit their applications well in advance of their intended travel date.
*Processing timelines are indicative and do not guarantee a specific visa decision or issuance date.
Visa processing delays may occur because of the following reasons:
Incomplete Application Information
Missing information or documents can prevent an application from being accepted or may result in additional processing.
Additional Verification Requirements
The authorities may request further documents or clarification depending on the application.
Document Corrections or Resubmissions
Errors or inconsistencies in submitted documents may require correction or additional documentation.
Late Applications
South Korea’s Consulate in Chennai advises Indian applicants to apply in advance because processing takes at least three weeks based on working days.
Peak Travel Periods
Higher application volumes can affect processing time. Applicants planning travel during busy holiday periods should allow additional preparation time.
International travel involves more than visa approval and may require travelers to review documents, bookings, and travel details before departure. Below are a few travel preparation tips to keep in mind.
Keep Printed and Digital Copies
Keep copies of your passport, visa, accommodation details, itinerary, and other important travel documents.
Review Passport Validity
Check your passport validity before beginning the application and confirm that it meets the current requirements.
Verify Travel Information
Make sure your itinerary, accommodation, flight information, and stated purpose of travel are consistent.
Prepare Financial Backup
Keep appropriate financial resources available for your trip and supporting financial records where required.
Monitor Travel Updates
Visa procedures and entry requirements can change. Check current information before departure.