How Indian passport holders get a visa for South Korea: visa type, government fee, processing time, maximum stay, the documents required and where to apply. Government-sourced — always verify on the official site before you travel.
Quick facts
- Visa type: Sticker visa — apply at VFS / embassy before travel
- Government fee: Approx ₹3,400 single-entry / ₹7,650 multiple-entry, plus a VFS service charge (approx ₹1,380). Confirm current fees on the Korea VFS portal.
- Processing time: Around 5–10 working days from a complete submission
- Maximum stay: Up to 90 days per stay (C-3-9 short-term visa)
- Interview: Not required
- Ease for Indian travellers: 47/100
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2+ blank pages
- Completed visa application form (filled online, printed)
- 2 recent photos (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
- Bank statements (last ~6 months)
- Income Tax Returns (last 1–2 years)
- Confirmed flight booking, accommodation & itinerary
- Proof of employment / occupation
How & where to apply
Indian passport holders need a C-3-9 short-term tourist visa applied for in advance — at a Korea Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in India, or directly at the Korean Embassy / Consulate. India is not in the K-ETA visa-free programme. Korea Visa Application Centre — India (VFS)
Transit & connections
No transit visa needed if you stay in the airport transfer area. Leaving the airport needs a transit visa, or you may qualify for visa-free transit if travelling to/from certain countries (USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand).
Good to know
K-ETA does not cover Indian passport holders — a full visa is required. Fees change; reconfirm on the official VFS Korea-India portal. Visa rules change often — confirm on the official government source: https://www.vfsglobal.com/south-korea/india/
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for South Korea?
Sticker visa — apply at VFS / embassy before travel. K-ETA does not cover Indian passport holders — a full visa is required. Fees change; reconfirm on the official VFS Korea-India portal.
What documents do Indians need for a South Korea visa?
Passport valid 6+ months with 2+ blank pages; Completed visa application form (filled online, printed); 2 recent photos (3.5 × 4.5 cm); Bank statements (last ~6 months); Income Tax Returns (last 1–2 years); Confirmed flight booking, accommodation & itinerary; Proof of employment / occupation
How long does a South Korea visa take and what does it cost?
Processing: Around 5–10 working days from a complete submission. Government fee: Approx ₹3,400 single-entry / ₹7,650 multiple-entry, plus a VFS service charge (approx ₹1,380). Confirm current fees on the Korea VFS portal.. Maximum stay: Up to 90 days per stay (C-3-9 short-term visa).
How do Indians apply for a South Korea visa?
Indian passport holders need a C-3-9 short-term tourist visa applied for in advance — at a Korea Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in India, or directly at the Korean Embassy / Consulate. India is not in the K-ETA visa-free programme. Official source: https://www.vfsglobal.com/south-korea/india/