Looking to expand your business operations to South Korea?
Whether you are attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business ventures, a South Korean business visa is mandatory for international business travelers.
If you are wondering what a South Korea Business visa is and how to apply for it, this blog will guide you over the types of business visas available, the requirement documents, application steps, fees, and more.
Let’s get started.
Types of South Korea Business Visas
It is important to pick the right South Korean business visas. The most common visa types are:
1. C-2 Visa (Short-Term Business Visa)
The C-2 visa is designed for short-term business trips, including meetings, negotiations, conferences, or seminars. Generally, this visa lets you stay up to 90 days within six months.
It is ideal for professionals who need to attend brief business engagements without the need for a long-term presence.
2. C-3 Visa (Long-Term Business Visa)
For those planning to stay in South Korea for more extended business activities such as market research, project supervision, or establishing a business, the C-3 visa is a suitable choice. This visa has more flexibility with the duration of stay and may offer renewal options depending on the purpose and circumstances.
Business Visa Requirements: Documents
There are several documents to provide while applying for your business visa to South Korea. These documents help prove your eligibility and the purpose of your visit. Below is a comprehensive list of required documents:
Mandatory Documents
Passport:
Your passport should remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in South Korea.
Visa Application Form:
Submit the business visa application form online or at the South Korean embassy or consulate.
Photographs:
You will need two recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) with 80% face visibility and a white background.
Invitation Letter:
This is a crucial document that must be provided by the South Korean company or institution hosting your visit. It should include details such as your name, passport number, travel dates, purpose of the trip, and the financial responsibilities of the inviter.
Flight Tickets:
Book your flight tickets and submit your travel itinerary, including departure and return dates.
Hotel Bookings:
You will need to submit confirmed hotel bookings, which should include the hotel’s letterhead and a seal.
Bank Statement:
Provide a recent six-month bank statement to prove you have sufficient funds for your stay in South Korea. Make sure to have at least 815 USD in your account.
Income Tax Returns:
To show your financial stability, make sure to submit the income tax returns for the last three years.
Covering Letter:
A personal cover letter addressed to the South Korean embassy or consulate, explaining your travel purpose and providing details about your employer, if applicable.
Additional Supporting Documents
Company Letter:
If you are employed, make sure to get a company letter from your employer that outlines your position, salary, and the purpose of your visit.
Police Clearance Certificate:
Get a police clearance certificate.
Self-Employed Applicants:
Self-employed applicants must provide a business registration certificate.
How to Apply for a South Korean Business Visa?
Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type
Determine which visa type best suits your business activities (C-2 or C-3) and prepare the necessary documents.
Step 2: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Submit the online visa application form that is generally available at the website of the South Korean embassy or consulate in your nation. After filling it out, print the form for submission.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Gather the required paperwork, such as your bank statements, invitation letter, passport, and travel information. Verify that everything is up-to-date and comprehensive.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can turn in your completed application at a visa application facility or the South Korean embassy or consulate. Remember to cover the visa charge.
Step 5: Await Processing
The processing time for a business visa to South Korea is typically 10 to 12 working days. Apply as soon as possible because it could take longer during busy times.
Step 6: Collect Your Visa
Pick up your passport and visa from the embassy or center after it has been approved. Another option is to have a courier deliver it.
Visa Fees:
The fee for a short-term single-entry business visa is typically around $40. Fees may vary depending on your nationality and the visa type.
Where to Apply for a South Korea Business Visa
You can visit the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country of residence to apply for your business visa. Or you can choose a verified third-party center or agent.
Tracking Your South Korea Business Visa
You can check the status of your visa application online after submitting it. To keep you informed about the status of your application, a lot of visa application facilities provide email or SMS notifications.
Important Notes
Varying Visa Requirements: Depending on your country and the purpose of your trip, different visa requirements may apply. Before applying, always confirm with the South Korean embassy or consulate.
Apply Early: To guarantee you have adequate time for processing and any unanticipated delays, apply well in advance.
Finish Your Documents: Before submitting your application, make sure all necessary documents are accurate and full. Your application may be delayed if certain documents are missing.
Conclusion
Obtaining a South Korean business visa can be a simple process if you follow the guidelines and ensure all your documents are in order. Whether you're attending a short-term meeting or planning a longer business engagement, understanding the visa types and requirements will help you prepare for a smooth application process.
Always plan, gather the necessary documents, and apply well in advance of your travel dates to ensure a hassle-free experience.
We at J&J Korea help international businesses and non-Korean entrepreneurs with the process of getting South Korean business visas. We guide you through the visa process, ensuring smooth approvals for our clients.
We also offer expert guidance in areas like taxation, accounting, and more, to help you navigate South Korea’s complex business environment with ease. Get in touch now!
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