Korea Visa Types and Required Documents

If you are a foreigner planning to travel, study, work, or live long-term in South Korea, the first thing you need to check is the Korean visa.
South Korea has several visa types depending on the purpose of your stay. Each visa category has different requirements, documents, and permitted length of stay.
In this guide, we explain the most common Korea visa types for foreigners and the basic documents required to apply for them.

Where to Check Official Korea Visa Information

Even if the visa type is the same, the required documents may vary depending on your country.
For example:
- Financial proof requirements
- Additional supporting documents
- Interview requirements

These can differ from country to country.
Foreigners preparing for a Korean visa usually check information through the following sources:
- The Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Korea in their country
- The official Korean visa website: Korea Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

The Korean embassy in your country usually provides the most accurate and updated requirements.

1. Types of Korean Visas (Based on Purpose of Stay)

1) Tourist / Short-Term Visit Visa (C-3)
The C-3 visa is used for short visits to Korea such as tourism, visiting family, or short business trips.
Most visitors entering Korea for tourism use this visa. Citizens of some countries may also be eligible for visa-free entry.

[Key Features]
Maximum stay: about 90 days
Allowed activities: tourism, visiting relatives, short events
Employment is not permitted

2) Student Visa (D-2)
The D-2 visa is issued to international students who want to obtain a degree in Korea.
This visa is typically used by students enrolled in:
- Universities
- Graduate schools
- Junior colleges
- Research institutions
It applies to students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in Korea.

3) Korean Language Training Visa (D-4)
Foreigners who come to Korea to learn the Korean language usually apply for the D-4 visa.
Typical programs include:
- Korean language institutes at universities
- Vocational training programs
- Korean language courses
Many international students change their visa status later, for example: D-4 (language study) → D-2 (degree program) → Work visa

4) Work Visa (E-Series)
Foreigners who want to work in Korea must obtain a Korean work visa.
The visa type depends on the job, education level, and work experience.
Common Korean work visas include:
- E-2: Foreign language instructor
- E-7: Specially skilled professional
- E-9: Non-professional employment
Work visas are usually issued based on an employment contract with a Korean company.

5) Marriage and Long-Term Residence Visas
Foreigners who plan to live in Korea long-term may apply for the following visas:
- F-6: Marriage immigrant visa
- F-5: Permanent residency visa
- F-4: Overseas Korean visa
These visas typically allow long-term residence and more flexible employment opportunities. 

2. Basic Documents Required for a Korean Visa

[Basic Documents]
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa application form
- Passport photo
- Documents proving the purpose of stay
- Financial proof (such as a bank balance certificate)

[Additional Documents Depending on Purpose]
For Student Visas (D-2 / D-4):
- Certificate of admission from a school
- Tuition payment confirmation
- Financial statement

For Work Visas:
- Employment contract
- Company business registration certificate
- Proof of academic degree and work experience

For Marriage Visas:
- Marriage certificate
- Spouse identity documents
- Family relationship documents

3. Alien Registration Card (ARC) for Long-Term Stay in Korea