Are you planning to visit, study, work, or live in South Korea? If so, you must understand the visa process and legal requirements to stay in Korea legally. This guide provides essential information on Korean visas, immigration rules, and key legal points to help you navigate your stay smoothly!
π Types of Korean Visas & How to Apply
Before entering Korea, you need the right visa based on your travel purpose. Here are the most common types of visas:
1️⃣ Tourist Visa (C-3)
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Who Needs It? Visitors traveling for tourism, short-term business, or family visits
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Duration: Up to 90 days
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How to Apply:
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Apply at a Korean Embassy or Consulate
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Some nationalities can apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) online
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Visa-Free Entry:
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Citizens of the U.S., Canada, EU countries, and others can enter Korea visa-free for up to 90 days
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Other countries may need to apply for a visa in advance
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2️⃣ Student Visa (D-2, D-4)
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D-2 (Degree Program): For university or graduate school students
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D-4 (Language Training): For those studying Korean at a language institute
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Required Documents:
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Admission letter from a Korean university
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Bank statement (proof of funds)
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Visa application form & passport
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Stay Duration: Varies depending on the length of study (extensions available)
3️⃣ Work Visas (E-2, E-7, etc.)
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E-2 (English Teaching Visa): For native English teachers at schools or academies
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E-7 (Skilled Professional Visa): For IT, engineering, and other specialized fields
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H-1 (Working Holiday Visa): For young travelers (ages 18–30) who want to work and travel in Korea for up to one year
4️⃣ Marriage & Residency Visas (F-2, F-6)
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F-6 (Marriage Visa): For foreigners married to Korean citizens
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F-2 (Long-Term Residency Visa): For foreigners who meet certain residency requirements
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F-5 (Permanent Residency Visa): Available for those who have lived in Korea for 5+ years and meet other conditions
⚖️ Important Legal Requirements for Foreigners
✅ Alien Registration Card (ARC)
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If you plan to stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you must apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC)
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Where to apply: Immigration office in your local area
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Deadline: Within 90 days of arrival
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Failure to register can result in fines!
✅ Visa Expiration & Overstay Rules π¨
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If your visa expires, you will be considered an illegal overstayer
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Consequences:
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Fines
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Possible deportation & re-entry ban (up to 10 years)
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Solution: Apply for a visa extension at the immigration office before your visa expires
✅ Employment Laws in Korea
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You MUST have a work visa to work legally in Korea
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Working without a visa can lead to fines & deportation
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Minimum Wage: KRW 10,030 per hour (as of 2025)
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Employment contracts must be in writing – make sure your employer provides a written agreement
π‘ Essential Tips for Living in Korea
✅ Apply for visa extensions at least 2 months before expiration
✅ Always carry your Alien Registration Card (It serves as your ID in Korea)
✅ For visa & immigration help, call 1345 (Immigration Contact Center) – Support available in multiple languages
✅ Use Naver Maps & Kakao Maps instead of Google Maps (They are more accurate in Korea)
✅ You need an Alien Registration Card to open a bank account in Korea
π Final Thoughts
To enjoy a hassle-free stay in Korea, make sure you follow visa regulations and immigration laws. Check your visa expiration date regularly and avoid overstaying. If you have any doubts, reach out to the Korean Immigration Office or the 1345 helpline.
✔ Need help? Call 1345 for immigration assistance!
✔ Have questions about living in Korea? Drop a comment!
Welcome to Korea! Enjoy your stay! π°π·✨
