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Seoul skyline with the Lotte World Tower and a bridge across the Han River
Asia · Country guide

South Korea

A technology and culture powerhouse with a government scholarship programme and an official online travel authorisation.

Capital
Seoul
Languages
Korean
Currency
South Korean won (KRW)
Pathways covered
4

Sample content — pending verification. This page shows the structure of a Visa & Beyond guide. General descriptions are for orientation only; specific rules, fees, costs and deadlines have deliberately not been filled in. Always use the official links on this page for current requirements.

Last reviewed . Immigration rules change often. This is general educational information, not legal or immigration advice, and Visa & Beyond is not affiliated with any government. Confirm everything on the official website before you apply. Disclaimer

Overview

South Korea’s immigration system is run by the Korea Immigration Service under the Ministry of Justice. Short visits may require a K-ETA, while longer stays require a visa for your purpose.

This guide is for orientation only and does not list fees or eligibility rules.

Visa pathways

The main routes people research for South Korea. Names are given for orientation; read eligibility, fees and processing information on the official page.

Visit & tourism

K-ETA / visitor visa

Visa-free travellers may need a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). Others apply for a visa. Use only the official K-ETA website.

Official page
Study

Student visas

For students admitted to Korean universities or language programmes.

Official page
Work

Professional work visas

Several visa types cover professionals with a job offer from a Korean employer.

Work

Employment Permit System

A government programme for workers from partner countries in specific sectors.

Work opportunities

Most work visas require a Korean employer. Be cautious of agencies that charge large fees for job placement, and check claims with official sources.

Work abroad guides

Study opportunities

Study in Korea, run by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), lists universities, courses and scholarships, including the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS).

Study abroad guides

Estimated living costs

Living costs vary widely by city, household size and lifestyle. We have not yet published verified figures for this guide. When we do, each estimate will show its source and date. Use this list to plan the categories you will need to budget for.

Rent (shared or one-bedroom)Figure pending verification
Utilities & internetFigure pending verification
GroceriesFigure pending verification
Local transportFigure pending verification
Health insurance / healthcareFigure pending verification
Mobile phone planFigure pending verification
Initial set-up costs (deposit, furniture)Figure pending verification

Important requirements

Commonly requested across many visa types. The official document list for your specific visa always takes priority.

  • A valid passport. Many countries require it to remain valid for a minimum period beyond your stay; check the exact rule for your visa.
  • A completed application submitted through the official government portal or an authorised visa application centre.
  • Evidence of the purpose of your stay, such as an offer letter, letter of admission, invitation or itinerary.
  • Proof that you can support yourself financially, usually through bank statements, sponsorship letters or scholarship letters.
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo), medical examinations or police certificates may be requested for some visa types.
  • Payment of the official government fee. Fees are published on the official website and can change.

Official government resources

Official sources for South Korea

Life in South Korea

Seoul is fast-paced and highly connected. Learning Korean helps greatly outside the workplace. Newcomers often mention registering for an alien registration card and national health insurance soon after arrival.

Life abroad guides

Keep reading

Essential guides

Other destinations