This is an independent guide, not an official government website. Visa rules change often; always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before you apply or book.
South Korea visa for Indian passport holders
Visa required
- Stay allowed
- 90 days
- Fee
- ₹4,500KRW 63,742 · Service charge varies by centre (BLS about ₹1,100; VFS varies). Multiple-entry visas cost more and have stricter eligibility. Express processing is optional and costs extra, and has been suspended at some centres.
- Processing
- 7–10 working days
- Validity
- 3 months
Last verified .
Indians need a visa for South Korea, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 7–10 working days.
Indian passport holders need a visa before travelling to South Korea for tourism, while keeping things clear and accessible. You’ll notice that there is no visa on arriver, no e-visa and no K-ETA option for average Indian tourists. This is surprisingly effortless to understand: most travelers utilise for short-check visa C-3-9, which is a single entry enter Korea within 3 months of issue, and you can stay up to 90 days from the date of entry visa.This is useful because the visa fee is About 4,500 plus a visa centre service charge, so the budget is 4,500 per person, maintaining simplicity and clarity. To put it simply, check the latest amount before apply, as fees can change.
You’ll notice that to, apply the online form, The Visa Portal of Korea (Visa.Go.Kr), print it and booked an appointment at a visa centre managed by VFS Global or BLS International. Take your passposrt, recent photo, flight and hotel bookings, and about six months of bank statements. A surprising things is that Add employment or business proof if you are employed or operate a business, facilitating the process of a more efficient process. The processing is to normally takes 7 To 10 Working Days, it can run longer in busy seasons. So apply At Least 3 to 4 weeks before your trip, and double check your visa informations when you collect your passport.
How to apply for a South Korea visa from India
- Check that you need a C-3-9 tourist visa; Indian passport holders cannot enter without one
- Fill in the online visa application form on the Korea Visa Portal (visa.go.kr), print it and sign it
- Gather your documents (see below) and book an appointment at your jurisdiction's visa centre
- Submit your passport and documents in person at the visa centre (VFS Global or BLS International)
- Pay the visa fee and service charge
- Track your application using the reference number on the VFS or BLS website
- Collect your passport with the visa and check the dates, name and entry type before you travel
Entry requirements for South Korea
- Valid Indian passport with enough validity and blank pages
- Approved Korean tourist visa (C-3-9) before boarding
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation for the stay
- Proof of funds for the trip
- Enter Korea within 3 months of visa issue
- Stay no longer than 90 days from the date of entry
South Korea visa document checklist
Choose your profile to see exactly what to carry. Tick items as you collect them, then print or save as PDF.
Embassies can ask for more documents. Always match this list with the official checklist before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for South Korea?
Indians need a visa for South Korea, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 7–10 working days.
How much is the South Korea visa fee for Indians?
The total cost is about ₹4,500 per person (official fee KRW 63,742). Service charge varies by centre (BLS about ₹1,100; VFS varies). Multiple-entry visas cost more and have stricter eligibility. Express processing is optional and costs extra, and has been suspended at some centres..
How long does a South Korea visa take for Indians?
Processing usually takes 7–10 working days. Apply well before your travel date, especially in peak season.
How long can Indians stay in South Korea?
Up to 90 days (3 months).
Is travel insurance mandatory for South Korea?
It is not listed as mandatory, but medical cover for the whole trip is strongly recommended.
Where do Indians apply for a South Korea visa?
Apply only on the official website (Korea Visa Portal (Ministry of Justice)). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra fees.
Can Indians get a visa on arrival in South Korea?
No. Indian citizens must get a visa before travelling.
Is K-ETA available for Indians?
No. K-ETA is for visa-free nationalities, and India is not one of them.
Is there an e-visa for Indian tourists?
Not for ordinary tourism. You apply through a visa centre or the embassy.
Where do I submit my application in India?
VFS Global (New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru) and BLS International (Mumbai, Hyderabad).
Can I apply by mail or walk in?
Appointments are required; walk-ins are not accepted.
Does Jeju allow visa-free entry for Indians?
Sources conflict; do not state this until confirmed on the official site.