Why apply for a South Korea Visit Visa?

South Korea is a blend of tradition, technology, and natural beauty—making it a top destination for tourists, business visitors, and short-term learners. Here's why Canadians and residents apply for a South Korea Visit Visa:

• Over 11 million tourists visited South Korea in 2023, demonstrating its growing popularity among global travelers.
• Visa-free travel for Canadian passport holders for up to 180 days.
• Explore vibrant cities like Seoul and Busan, renowned for their rich history, vibrant fashion, and diverse entertainment options.
• Short-term educational programs and business meetings are allowed under certain visa types.
• South Korea offers multiple visa types: C-3 (Short-term Visit), eVisa, and visa exemptions.
• Fast visa processing times—typically 5 to 7 working days.

What is a South Korean Tourist Visa?

A South Korea Tourist Visa is a short-term visa (C-3) that allows foreign nationals, including Canadians, to enter South Korea for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending short business meetings, or participating in cultural or academic events. It is typically valid for up to 90 days and can be single or multiple entry, depending on the application and approval.
 

Types of Visit Visas for South Korea:

South Korea offers several types of visit visas based on the purpose of travel.

• C-3 Short-Term Visit Visa
• C-3-1 General Short-Term Visit Visa
• C-3-4 Business Short-Term Visa
• C-3-9 Short-Term Education or Training Visa
• Visa Waiver for Canadians
• eVisa (Electronic Visa)
• C-3-3 Medical Tourism Visa

Benefits of a South Korea Visit Visa

• Allows for tourism, visiting friends or family, business meetings, or medical treatments.
• Multiple-entry options available for frequent travelers.
• Access to short-term study programs or conferences.
• Valid for up to 90 days or longer, depending on visa type.
• Visa extensions are possible under special circumstances.

Eligibility for South Korea Visit Visa

To apply for a South Korea Visit Visa from Canada, you must:

• Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months' validity.
• Be a Canadian citizen or a foreign national with legal residence in Canada.
• Have sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Submit proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
• Provide an invitation letter (if visiting friends, family, or business associates).
• Have no criminal background or immigration violations.

South Korea Visit Visa Requirements

Here are the key documents needed:

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
• Recent passport-size photograph (3.5 cm × 4.5 cm, white background)
• Proof of residence in Canada (for non-Canadians)
• Travel itinerary and round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel booking or an invitation letter from a Korean host
• Financial documents (bank statements, income proof)
• Employment/student verification (if applicable)

How to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check if you need a visa (Canadian citizens don't require one for short stays).
2. Determine visa type based on purpose (tourism, business, family visit, short-term education, etc.).
3. Gather the required documents based on your nationality and purpose.
4. Fill out the visa application form and attach supporting documents.
5. Book an appointment at the nearest South Korean Embassy or Consulate in Canada.
6. Submit the application in person or by post, as per consulate guidelines.
7. Pay the visa fee in cash or money order (check consulate instructions).
8. Track your application and wait for approval (usually within 5–7 business days).
9. Collect your visa or receive it via mail (if a postal application was used).

South Korea Visit Visa Processing Time

Visa processing for a South Korea Visit Visa typically takes around 5 to 7 business days. However, delays may occur during peak travel seasons, holidays, or if the submitted documents are incomplete or require additional verification.
 

South Korea Visit Visa Cost (in CAD)

Visa Type	Fee (CAD)
Single-entry visa	$52
Multiple-entry visa	$78
Transit visa	$20

 

How long is the South Korea Visit Visa valid?

The South Korea Visit Visa includes several options based on nationality and purpose of travel. The C-3 Short-Term Visa allows single or multiple entries and is valid for up to 90 days. For eligible travelers, the eVisa offers flexible validity and duration depending on their nationality. Canadian passport holders benefit from a visa exemption, allowing them to stay in South Korea for up to 180 days for tourism or business purposes. In special cases, such as medical emergencies, visa extensions may be granted.

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis can assist you with the South Korea Visit Visa from Canada in the following ways:
• Help you choose the correct visa type based on your travel purpose.
• Assist in completing and submitting your application to the Korean Consulate.
• Review your financial and personal documents to ensure accuracy.
• Provide timely updates and follow-ups on your application status.