Tuesday, January 03, 2012

South Korea: Applying for a Korean visa in the Philippines


Visa application procedures have been a common query friends and readers ask me. Just yesterday, I was discussing with a friend who found it such a hassle to apply for several visas for just one trip. I realized I had applied for several visas last year alone. So I'm sharing my tourist visa application experiences beginning with South Korea since I'm currently here.

Here is a tip, when applying for a visa, make sure to photocopy or request for duplicate copies of all the documents you will submit. This will come in very handy and will make life easier for you when you apply for a visa for another country.

Aside from short-term tourist visas being free of charge to Philippine passport holders for stays of 59 days or less, the good news is that the Ministry of Justice of South Korea had simplified Korean tourist visa requirements last year to attract more tourists from South East Asian countries, including the Philippines. Aside from the single entry visas, they now issue double entry and extended multiple entry visas with validity from one to three years. In fact, I was given an extended multiple entry visa valid for three years when I applied for this trip.

The basic requirements are: (1) application form, (2) one passport-sized photo and (3) your original passport with at least six months validity and a photocopy of the first page.

Note that the Korean Embassy is very strict about complete requirements. So make sure you have everything that is needed. In many cases, people are sent away since requirements were incomplete.

Single Entry Visas
For single entry short-term visas (C-3) for tourists, you also have to submit: (1) employment certificate or business registration issued by SEC or DTI, (2) personal bank certificate, and (3) individual ITR or a copy of Form 2316 from the previous year. If you lack these documents, the Korean Embassy allows alternative documents for proof of income such as land titles, vehicle registration, country club or golf membership and pension certificates.

For an applicant who has traveled or has a valid visa to any one of the OECD member countries within the last five years, you are only required to submit requirement (1) and photocopies of OECD countries visa and arrival stamps. Here is a list of OECD countries.

If applicants are students, they are required to submit their school certificate, birth certificate and requirements (1), (2) and (3) of their parents.

Double Entry Visas
This visa is for visitors who plan to visit South Korea twice within six months. The visa requirements are the same as the single entry visa. A double entry C-3 visa is issued with a validity of six months.

Multiple Entry Visas
There are several criteria to qualify you for a multiple entry visa. These include the following (plus requirements):
(1) Applicants who have obtained permanent residency in any OECD member country (except South Korea) or people who visited OECD member countries more than two times within the last four years, or people who visited Korea more than four times within the last two years (original and photocopy of visiting records in the applicant's passport - visa and arrival stamps)
(2) Group tour guides who have traveled to South Korea more than once in the last two years
(3) Philippine government officials (employment certificate)
(4) High-rank officials and employees of international airline companies to South Korea (employment certificate)
(5) Applicants who earn more than $10,000 annually or have a platinum international credit card (official documents proving the financial status of the applicant or original and photocopy of platinum card)
(6) Applicants who are invited for contract and consultation by Korean public agencies in connection to resources and energy development (employment certificate and related contracts or guarantee letter from host)
(7) Applicants who are invited by the Korean Government to attend international forums, international conferences and international conventions (employment certificate and invitation letter)
(8) Executive or high ranking staff of a company that is listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange (business permit or employment certificate, individual ITR)
(9) Reporters, PD, journalists, news editors, etc. including people who work in a major media company for more than one year (identification card and employment certificate with the period of employment indicated, ITR)
(10) Professionals such as lawyers, doctors, accountants, professors, PRC or IBP card holders (employment certificate, PRC ID copy or IBP copy)
(11) Popular celebrities, artists, athletes, writers who can be searched or viewed in Philippine major media websites (a membership card or an ID, media records or records of concerned activity)
(12) Retired workers aged 55 years and above who are receiving pensions of more than Php20,000 monthly (any supporting document which proves he/she is a pensioner)
(13) People who have obtained a two year college degree or bachelor’s degree, master’s or doctorate degree from universities in Korea (diploma)
(14) Spouse, minor-aged children or parents-in-law of a Korean national (Korean couple's marriage contract and Korean marriage history)
(15) Dependent (spouse, children, etc.) of multiple visa holders (photocopy of multiple visa and proof of relationship documents - birth certificate, marriage certificate)

Application Procedure
There is no need for an appointment. After completing the required documents, applicants may file their applications at the Consular Office of the Korean Embassy from 9 to 11 a.m. only, Monday to Friday. This is on a first come, first served basis. Note that gates open at 8 a.m.

The Korean Embassy is located at the corner of Upper McKinley Road and C5 in Taguig City. When you arrive at the gate, you will need to get a gate pass and sign on the log sheet. There is a separate log for first time travelers and frequent travelers. So make sure you sign the right one.

The gate pass is not yet your number. After entering, you will have to get your number from the reception table. Again, the numbers for first time and frequent travelers are different. So make sure you get the right one.

When your number is called, you proceed to the window with your documents for checking. If they are complete and the consul does not have any questions, they will receive your documents. That is not an assurance that your visa is granted. They will then give you a claim slip indicating the date when you can return to the embassy to pick up your passport (and visa if approved). Don't lose it since you will need it to claim your passport. For first time travelers, processing takes five working days. While for frequent travelers, processing is three working days. It can take longer depending on the decision of the consul.

Releasing time is only from 2 to 4 p.m. The same entry procedures apply, get a gate pass and sign on the log sheet, then get a number once inside. Make sure you bring your claim slip with you because you will need this to enter and get a number. If you are unable to claim your visa on the scheduled date, you may pick it up on another date. But make sure to mention it to the consul. You may also have someone claim your passport for you with the necessary authorization letters. Also make sure to mention this to the consul.

Visa Fees
Visas are free (gratis) for stays of 59 days or less. If you plan to stay longer that 59 days, the visa fees are as follows: single entry Php1500; double entry Php3000; and multiple entry Php4000.

Visa-free entry to Jeju Island
Philippine passport holders can visit Jeju Island visa-free for up to 30 days. Note that you will have to fly direct to Jeju Island without passing through any Korean airport. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Jeju from the Philippines. To remedy this, you will have to pass through a third country in transit, such as Japan or Hong Kong, and take a flight to Jeju from there.

Download Korean Visa Application Form (print on A4 paper)

Embassy of the Republic of Korea
122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center
Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634 Philippines
Tel. No. (02) 8569210, Fax No. (02) 8569024 (Consular Section)
E-mail: philippines@mofat.go.kr or ph04@mofat.go.kr (Consular Section)

146 comments:

  1. thank you sir for this! very helpful since we are going to Seoul this February :)

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  2. Anonymous4.1.12

    wow, thanks for this Sir Ivan. :) I noticed no plane ticket required? On the other hand, I work online though and will check if a proof that I am working is sufficient. :)

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  3. Thanks Ivan. This is one great tip.
    By the way, do you have plans to go "north" of the DMZ?

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  4. yey! thanks so much for this... :) i'm going to korea in april. will share this post to my friends who are going with me :)

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  5. Anonymous5.1.12

    Hi Sir Ivan.Happy New Year To u and to ur followers!
    Im an OFW and here in Philippines for a couple of weeks more.I visited korea last year and got a visa with no problem abroad .I planned to come visit again korea before i go and tried to apply here.Thought it would be easier for me coz i got visa last time.But they require ITR in the Korean embassy even for OFW residing abroad.SInce I dont know how to get that and have limited time i didnt apply coz im afraid to be denied.
    And just yesterday I just learned that Filipinos can visit Jeju Island ,South korea with No Visa required at all, provided that Filipinos should be flying directly to Jeju Airport.Having Stop over/connecting Flight within korea (Busan lIncheon/Gimpo Airports)will require a visa for transit-meaning BIG PROBLEM.
    Im really eager and dreaming to visit Jeju next week before i leave Philippines again.Which countries and what airlines Sir Ivan u can highly suggest and recommend to fly directly to jeju island?
    Please help..
    Thank You so much and Godbless Sir Ivan.

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  6. thank you Ivan. very helpful..you may want to include information on when the earliest date to apply for a visa e.g. travel in April, apply visa in Feb etc

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  7. To fly to Jeju without having to pass by Incheon or Busan, you can pass through a third country on transit like Japan or Hong Kong.

    @yovelarde, let me check what the earliest possible is. Thanks!

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  8. Anonymous5.1.12

    JeJu-
    Thank U So Much Sir.Ivan for the info!Godbless and more power!

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  9. Anonymous9.1.12

    Thank you so much for this information! It really helped a lot :) But, I was wondering if it was possible if we could just mail the documents to the embassy than to go to the embassy to file our visa... :D

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  10. Anonymous10.1.12

    Hi Sir Ivan, what do you mean by " frequent traveller" does it mean those who have travelled to south korea several times or travelled several times to different countries.We have travelled to several asian countries and twice to USA.

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  11. For application purposes, it would mean this: "Applicants who have obtained permanent residency in any OECD member country (except South Korea) or people who visited OECD member countries more than two times within the last four years, or people who visited Korea more than four times within the last two years"

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  12. Anonymous12.1.12

    hi. the requirement of "OECD countries visa copy and arrival stamps" only pertains to the arrival stamp by OECD country or does it also include the arrival stamp here in Manila after coming home from OECD country?


    Thanks!

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  13. Just OECD countries. No need for arrival stamp in Manila

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  14. Anonymous17.1.12

    if i've travelled to an OECD country, i'll only submit #1 right? what if i'm unemployed? what document should i submit?

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  15. If unemployed, you might want to submit (2) & (3) as proof of income. Best to call the embassy for specific cases.

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  16. Anonymous20.1.12

    hi sir ivan, just want to ask when is the start of 59days tourist visa in Korea, is it the day you arrived? or the day after you arrived? I wanted to get the fullest 59D when I visist Korea ...Thanks in advance

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  17. Anonymous20.1.12

    Hi Sir Ivan, when is the start of 59 days tourist visa to Korea? is it the day you arrived at Korea, or the day after your arrived? Many thanks

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  18. Anonymous21.1.12

    I WAS DENIED OF MY VISA IN SOUTH KOREA BECAUSE OF MY VALIDATION OF MY PASSPORT AND THAT IS THE PROBLEM SO I RENEW IT,SO IT IS POSSIBLE FOR ME AGAIN TO APPLY FOR A KOREAN VISA......HOW LONG WILL I WAIT.....I NEED YOUR QUICK REPLY CO'Z INEED THAT NOW....CO'Z I WANT TO SEE KOREA...HOPE FOR YOUR RESPONSE SOON

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  19. kimmy21.1.12

    thanks po for the info..i already booked a flight, i will be in korea by november this year..i can submit all the requirements needed for the visa, my question is, is it okay to apply in april, just to test if i will be denied or approved?since my travel date will be november, if ever denied, i can still re-apply in october ryt? but once approved,and if ever i got only a single entry visa which is only valid for 3 months..wat i can go to korea ont those months?will it affect my next application once i try again to apply in october?thanks for your help

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  20. Kyles Kulit21.1.12

    Hi Sir Ivan, thanks for the tip. I am wondering since it will be my first time to apply for a korean visa, and i have already visited Japan twice, is it possible for me to obtain a Double Entry Visa? I am planning to visit Seoul twice this April and May.

    Thanks po.

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  21. third22.1.12

    no need to submit documentations for plane ticket and confirmed hotel accommodation?

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  22. Hi and good day, I have one AU issued visa last year and one japan visa issued this january 2012, I was wondering if I am qualified as part of the "frequent" traveler? thank you.

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  23. Anonymous24.1.12

    Hi Sir. I am a filipina married to a korean national, I just want to ask, do you have an idea of the differentiation between the single entry visa at multiple entry visa with regard to the visa stamped in passport? how can you say that korean embassy issued a multiple entry visa or single entry visa in your passport?I tried to invite my mother here, but they only issued a single entry/tourist visa.where in fact the application fall under the category of the multiple entry visa (#14) Spouse, minor-aged children or parents-in-law of a Korean national (Korean couple's marriage contract and Korean marriage history. Thanks in advance.

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  24. Anonymous25.1.12

    This really helps. Question: How long is the effectivity of the Visa from the time it was approved? and if denied after how many months to re-apply again. Thanks

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  25. Anonymous25.1.12

    Hi sir Ivan, How long is the effectivity of the visa from the time it was approved? and how many months to re-apply if denied? big thanks

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  26. Anonymous27.1.12

    hi sr. this is my very first time to travel at korea pa. is it true wala ng personal interview in getting visa? worried din ako kase maglalagay pa lang ako money 100k s bank account. of course malalaman ng embassy yun kakalagay lang. how was that? and the money is it enough? i have a visa pala for canada immigrant and will go there on june pa so im planning kahit april makaalis na to korea. advantage ba un? how long should i wait for the visa after the application. sorry very new here tlaga. and better po ba if i resign na sa work? much better yata kng currently employed ka kaso 59 days ako mawawala. wala pa kaming ganung leave coz mag 1 year pa lang ang company namin. salamat

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  27. Anonymous1.2.12

    Hello! Can someone apply for the Korean visa on my behalf? My husband did it for both of us at the Chinese embassy. Thanks!

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  28. So useful, thanks :D

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  29. Anonymous19.2.12

    Hi sir ivan! i will just ask something po, im a filipino passport holder, can i apply korean tourist a in singapore? since my father is working in singapore for almost 10years already and the requirements for student like me will be coming from him, and im going to stay there next month for 30 days hope u will respond po

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  30. Anonymous19.2.12

    Hi sir ivan! i will just ask something po, im a filipino passport holder, can i apply korean tourist a in singapore? since my father is working in singapore for almost 10years already and the requirements for student like me will be coming from him, and im going to stay there next month for 30 days hope u will respond po

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  31. You can try. But usually embassies only accept passports of locals or foreigners with resident or working permits

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  32. Anonymous29.2.12

    Greetings! Kudos to your very informative site Sir Ivan. Anyways, My wife and I just recently applied for a tourist visa for a 4 day visit to Seoul. We submitted the proper documents: APPLICATION FORM, PASSPORT plus 1ST PAGE XEROX, CERT OF EMPLOYMENT, BANK STATEMENT, ITR...although our hotel and plane reservations were returned to us (guess they were not needed). Well...she got denied because they said she failed to prove strong economic and family ties. (I am still waiting for my result this March 2)

    Is there a remedy to this situation? What can we do. Although I see nothing wrong with our papers...ample money in the bank, previous passport stamps from Singapore and Hongkong...etc. Were already booked to fly this coming March 8th so I'm really confused on why we she was denied (and probably me too coz we submitted the same papers basically) and what to do...

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  33. Katrina1.3.12

    hello ivan, im currently a junior student in college and it would be my first time to travel out of country. i submitted the complete set of requirements for students who would tour in Korea. what do you think are my chances? thanks

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  34. Anonymous2.3.12

    thanks so much sir! God bless you :)

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  35. Anonymous2.3.12

    hi sir ivan.i need your advice i am leaving to south korea this 30 of march coz i was invited to attend a conference i was given an in citation letter and they will shoulder my accommodation.now nag ka problem ako sa embassy ditto sa singapore they are asking for R.O.C registration ng invitation letter what is the R.O.C?
    pls help me sir ivan

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  36. Kris5.3.12

    Hi Ivan,
    I just have a couple of queries:

    1.) How long is the validity of the tourist visa? Would it be too early if I apply by end of March if I plan to visit by November/December?

    2.) I have a multiple entry visa and previous entry stamps from Japan. Though this was still back in 2008. Would this still be valid as a travel proof from an OECD country?

    3.) For the bank statement, is there a specific amount required? (i.e. Chinese visa requires at least Php50K

    Thanks!

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  37. Anonymous14.3.12

    Hello! Sir, would like to ask whether I still need a double entry VISA since I plan to visit Seoul and then Jeju and then back to Seoul?

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  38. No need for double entry visa. Jeju is part of South Korea

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  39. Anonymous16.3.12

    My passport will expire June of next year, and we've already booked tickets for Busan, January of next year. Should I renew my passport first before I apply for a tourist visa?

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  40. Yup, best to renew so the visa is on your valid passport

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  41. Anonymous16.3.12

    Thanks for replying. One more thing, how long is the single entry valid?

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  42. Anonymous16.3.12

    Hi. If I'll get visa this month? How long is the validity of a single entry visa?

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  43. Anonymous20.3.12

    I read again your blog sir, cause im gonna apply my single entry tourist visa w/in this week.. it's helps me a lot! thanks so much.. Wish me good luck guys :)

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  44. Anonymous23.3.12

    Hello just wanna ask, I'm a college student invited by a friend for a month vacation in south Korea and my friend will be the one to shoulder all the expenses while I'm there, what are the other requirements if it's the case?

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  45. Invitation letter and proof of income of friend I suppose? Please check with embassy to be sure

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  46. Anonymous25.3.12

    Hi sir ivan, I just apply for visa last week, my partner work in korea for about 5 yrs po, we are not yet married but we have baby, he gave all the documents we need and tinanggap naman nila, i will get my passport on tues. Anyway po pti baby ko inaply ko rin ng visa.,, nag apply po kmi ng f-1 visa, sa tingin nyo po ba mgging ok ang lahat. Kinakabahan po aq, but im still hoping po n mkakuha kmi ni baby ng visa..

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  47. hello. my friends and i booked a promo flight to korea last december. my problem is although i have money in the bank, i've just been employed last november so i don't have an ITR yet. would my COE and contract (which indicates my monthly salary)suffice? btw, im also a US immigrant visa holder. hoping for your reply. im desperate from an answer. thanks!

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  48. Can i ask a question?? What if i recently graduated and i don't have a job yet and my sisters only gave me this trip as a gift?? i don't have a bank account also... i hope you can help me thank you

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  49. Anonymous1.5.12

    Hi, sir ivan. Pls help us. We recently bought a promo ticket going to incheon for the period of november 22 - 27. How early can we apply for the visa? Im currently employed in a prestige international bank and my salary and itr is sufficient. But for the bank deposit? Is it ok for 50k and up? Will we get denied? Please help us..

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  50. @dianne chan, case to case. Sometimes they will but you will have to produce other documents to prove your income.

    @iambabypanda, you will have to ask your sisters to produce the financial documents for you. But that is still not an assurance.

    @Anonymous, just make sure the documents are in order. You have to prove to them that you have sufficient funds to finance your trip and that you have reason return.

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  51. Hi sir, I saw your second to the last post about 'visa-free entry to Jeju Island' so I was thinking if I could go to Jeju Island then to Seoul without asking visa from the Korean embassy? I am actually turning 18 this July, therefore I don't have work and I am still studying. May I ask what visa should I apply if ever I can't do the plan A (the first one. XD)

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  52. You can't visit Seoul without a visa. Only Jeju is visa free. You will have to go through Immigration again when you reach Seoul.

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  53. Oh... So can you suggest what is safer? I mean should I just go through the Korean embassy while I'm here in the Philippines or just when I'm in jeju already?

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  54. They won't give you a Korean visa in Jeju. You will have to apply here.

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  55. Hi Sir Ivan!

    excellent write up about the visa application.

    We have to personally appear right? me and my infant son (less than 2 years old) as well?

    thank you.

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  56. Anonymous14.5.12

    Thanks! that was very helpful...

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  57. Anonymous21.5.12

    Hi sir!
    I really want to go to South Korea. I'm currently working here in Saudi Arabia and planning to visit my cousins and nieces on my vacation before going home(Philippines). I want to have them surprised thats why Im doing this query without them knowing. Please help...Big thanks!

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  58. Anonymous22.5.12

    hi sir,
    as of now im still working here in korea for almost 1 year but this setptember it will be finish of my contract and i dnt wanna go back to philippines my visa is E-6,and i wanna stay here for a years.is it possible to change my visa or to extend my visa?what do you think the best way so i can stay here

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  59. Anonymous23.5.12

    Hi Sir, When is the best time to apply for tourist visa? I mean should it be a month before your actual travel dates or like around 2 weeks before? Thanks.

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  60. Anonymous30.5.12

    hi po im a 90 days tourist here in japan and filipino passport holder and i wanted to visit korea just to continue my journey do i still have to apply a korean visa here in japan.thank you and god bless

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  61. As long as it would fall under the 90 days validity from its issuance. But to be safe, the final entry date shouldn't be too close from the actual date you are planning to visit the country.

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  62. Anonymous6.6.12

    Regarding land titles, do you need to give them the original copy. Will they return it to you??

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  63. Anonymous7.6.12

    hi my friend invite me to go to his country south korea ,i ask if its not hard to get a tourist visa? this is my 1st time to go to other country , can u help how 2 approved my visa ..?

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  64. hello sir,
    i applied for a visa before and i was approved, but i want to keep on going back to korea and visit all sites. i got a single entry korean visa and i just want to ask about the requirements for renewing a korean visa...

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  65. hello sir,
    what are the requirements for renewing a single entry visa? i was already approved this month and i will be using it to visit a friend, but i want to comeback again next year... please help me...
    thanks in advance!

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  66. Thank you so much for this very useful information! I was told by an officemate who lived in Seoul for 8 years that in order to increase our chances to get our visas approved, we needed to present a documentation of our hotel reservation for our trip in March next year. Is it that necessary? Thank you and more power! :)

    ReplyDelete
  67. Anonymous27.6.12

    Thank you! This was so helpful. Martin

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  68. Hi ivanhenares.com,

    PLEASE HELP ME...T_T

    Here's my problem...
    Is there any way I can acquire a korean visa if I'm a work from home employee. I don't have a complete requirements for the kr visa, like ITR SSS ID etc. But I do have a full time job(homebased) and my employer is based in Canada. What should I do??? I already got a plane ticket and the flight is in Novemeber this year.

    Do you know any people who has situation like mine and did get a korean visa?

    any suggestions?..T_T

    ReplyDelete
  69. Paula5.7.12

    Thanks for this! Really helpful.

    I have question though. I have a valid Australia and US Visa right now and also a student. Do I still have to show my parents' certificates (ITR, bank account, etc.?)

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  70. Anonymous7.7.12

    hi, does one need a confirmed RT airline ticket and hotel reservation to apply for a visa? also, is there a minimum account balance for the bank certificate? thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Hello sir Ivan.. Many thanks for a very informative blog.. :) Just wanna ask sir, we already booked a flight to Incheon on Jan 2-4 next yr for our honeymoon and our wedding will be on Dec 29 this yr. Im confused with regards to my passport, can i still use my maiden name because i used it on my ticket and if it is possible, what status im going to indicate on the application form for my korean visa? Pls help me sir... THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

    ReplyDelete
  72. genieper31.7.12

    Hi Sir Ivan!

    My sister doesn't have an ITR since she works home-based from a Malaysian company. We'll be going to Korea this Oct on a tour. Would an affidavit of support be enough? what other documents does she need? We do have a condominium under both of our names, can she present that as well?

    Kindly advice. Thanks in advance!

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  73. XelinG1.8.12

    Hello!

    My case is the same with genieper's sister above. I work home-based for a US Company and I don't have an ITR, what else do I have to secure? I am starting to get disappointed about not being able to get visas due to ITR issues.

    Looking forward to your response. Thank you.

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  74. Prove to them that you have the funds to support your travel: bank statements, credit card billing, proof of ownership of homes, cars, etc.

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  75. @yinyang01, use the name on your passport. I doubt you'll be able to change it anyway by the time you fly out. And you will still be single when you apply.

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  76. Paul5.8.12

    Hello Sir Ivan,
    Question: If our travel period will be on the 4th week of October, is it already ok to go NOW to the embassy and apply for a visa or should we wait for at least 30-60 days from the travel period before we can apply for one? Thanks!

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  77. you can indicate "undecided" if you dont have confirmed hotel reservation;

    this thread is very helpful
    http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=291664&page=203

    ReplyDelete
  78. Anonymous10.8.12

    Hi Ivan,

    Thank you for the info. I have a question though, what is the validity of the bank certificate that I should present? My bank certificate is as of August 2 and I would like to apply for a visa probably on August 15.

    ReplyDelete
  79. Anonymous12.8.12

    Hi po, question lng regarding our visa application. We are 6 with my friends travelling this coming sept. ngsubmit kme ng reqs last week but since meron kme uk and australlian visa ng isa q friend nahiwlay kme. Un 4 nmen kasma nakuha na nila. Un smen ayaw ibigay kc daw hndi nila macontact un hostel natitirahan nmen. 2 days na ako pabalik balik and on monday babalik ult ako just to show un email ng mngr ng hostel na we have reservation. Is it possible na denied na un visa nmen kya ibigay? Or is just a way for verification lng dn? Thank you po

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  80. Anonymous19.8.12

    hello ivan! what doc can i substitute since i don't have my itr yet. thanks;)

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  81. You can try credit card statements or other sources of income.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous7.5.13

      Hi sir ivan i have a question to u please help me i am filipina married to korean man how to apply or how to get a korean visa for stay in korea or for live in korea.thanks

      Delete
  82. Ronald24.8.12

    Thanks for all the info, God bless po

    ReplyDelete
  83. Anonymous25.8.12

    hello..very nice post.
    since i dont have a bank account yet,is it fine if i apply now and request for bank certificate soon? will the embassy know about it?
    i hav been using my credit card since 3 months only,is it okay or may suggest weak proof of stable economic resources?
    thank you

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  84. If you can give them proof of salary, that can help. But you might have problems if you can't show them the required documents

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  85. Anonymous30.8.12

    Hi Ivan,

    I work for a UN Agency and our salary is tax-free -- hence, no need to file an ITR. Do you think an employment certificate indicating our tax-free status under Philippine law is sufficient? Or do I need to dig up my ITR from my job before I joined the UN (but that ITR is already 8 years old!).

    Thanks, your blog is really helpful!

    Cheers
    Ruth

    ReplyDelete
  86. I've been to one of the OECD countries(USA) almost 5 years ago but my visa has expired, does it matter?

    ReplyDelete
  87. Anonymous1.9.12

    Salamat Ivan sa tips, getting our visa on friday

    ReplyDelete
  88. Anonymous6.9.12

    Filed our application for Korean Visa on August 31 in the morning and was given a stub to come back on September 5, fortunately got an approved visa, just to add sa mga tips come early because the line of people can be many, you can bring cp but taking pictures not allowed,usual problems I overheard, (payslip, meralco bill, bir #, ang daming nalungkot when they did not get their passport and visa pero if they comply with the requirements, file ulit para maapprove.

    ReplyDelete
  89. Anonymous6.9.12

    @Ruth, did you get a visa?

    ReplyDelete
  90. Lisa7.9.12

    hi po! ask ko lang kung kelan ang interview ng consul kung nag-apply ka ng visa? yun po ba yung time na pinabalik ka for pick-up? kinuha lang kasi yung mga documents ko at binigyan ako ng slip kung kelan ako babalik, wala namang sinabi or tinanong yung lalakeng koreano sa window. Di ko po tuloy alam kung may interview pa or what...

    thanks! - lisa

    ReplyDelete
  91. Anonymous10.9.12

    @ Lisa, once okay na yung documents mo, no more interview sa consul, iaabot nila ang paasport with visa. Naka isputing nga ako nung dumating ako to pass my documents thinking na may interview, pero after a week naka t-shirt without collar lang, fortunately got a visa. come early for the 2- 4 pm time dahil dami tao.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Anonymous12.9.12

    Hi.sir Ivan,im planning to go Korea nxt year with my son,now im her in Singapore.anu po ba ang requirement for kids?I've traveled Jakarta and penang Malaysia before. If you dont mind what country belong to OECD?and where can i get ITR? Does my son need that also?hope you answer my question.thanks a lot..I'll wait for the answer.

    ReplyDelete
  93. Anonymous15.9.12

    ivan,,,, my passport about expire , phil passport, whats the easiest way renew.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Thanks Ivan...
    This is what I am really looking for
    Very systematic and very detailed...
    Thanks again...
    Ill inform you if I got mine...

    ReplyDelete
  95. Anonymous17.9.12

    hi ask ko lng po.. need pa din ba kumuha ng visa? Stopover aq ng 9 hours sa incheon.. gusto ko sana mamasyal khit madali lang.. residence aq ng dubai at dto nagwowork.. Need ko pa ba kumuha ng visa? thanks :)

    ReplyDelete
  96. hi po, ask ko lang po mag kano ang show money pag nag apply ami ng husband ko sa south korea, tnx po

    ReplyDelete
  97. HI Po, may query po ako, mag kano po ba ang show money or bank statement pag nag apply ng visa sa south korea, nag bbalak kami ng husnad ko mag travel S.korea, tnx

    ReplyDelete
  98. Anonymous21.9.12

    My visa application unfortunately got denied. According to the slip attached on my passport, I can re-apply again earlier than 6 months if I have a different purpose of entry. My original purpose is to simply sightsee; but if I secure an invitation from an academy in Korea stating that I am invited to some sort of event, would that qualify as a different purpose of entry?

    ReplyDelete
  99. Anonymous26.9.12

    Hi, Sir ivan

    mg aaply aq sa korean emabassy this thursday hopefully i will get a visa so i can visit my bf on nov 16..i already bought my 2 way ticket...my 100k din aq sa bank account q knkabahan aq n bka madeny...nlgay lng ung 100k knina kse sa BDO nman walang dates kung kelan na open ung account e...sa tingin nyo po madedeny aq?

    ReplyDelete
  100. Anonymous29.9.12

    Hi Sir Ivan, I dont have any bank account. But im planning to open an account for this tour in S. Korea, just to complete the requirement. How much is the show money? or can i show the land title i have instead of show money? thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  101. Anonymous29.9.12

    hi po.

    pede ko po ba gamitin ung bank acct ng parents ko? wala kasi akong bank account eh. ok lang ba kung sa kanila na lng? or kung mag oopen ako ngaun ng bank account hindi po ba nila malalaman na recent lang cia at wala pang 5 months na kukuha ako ng bank certificate? may ticket na po kasi kme for april next yr. ang balak po namen kumuha ng visa ng february ok lang po ba un? we're still positive na maapprove basta complete lng ung requirements dba? and last po ok lang po ba kung february kme mag apply? kelan po ibibilang ung 60 days free? kala po kasi namen 90 days free un visa for korea.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Anonymous1.10.12

    WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY FREQUENT FLYER/

    ReplyDelete
  103. Anonymous1.10.12

    thanks for the info, it is very comprehensive. However, i have one question, what is Nationality Identity No. in the application form? i hope you can give me an answer...thanks

    ReplyDelete
  104. Anonymous5.10.12

    Hi. Does frequent traveler mean you visited the OECD countries? or does it also mean you visited non-OECD countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, etc? Thank you

    ReplyDelete
  105. Hello, sir. It'd be great for a reply asap for me :)
    But anyway, I'll be 18 next year(korean age) but I'm a Filipino.
    I plan on visiting SK at first and will be looking for a school to enter there. Then, I'm planing on auditioning for entertainment companies to become a trainee. It might take me a couple of years..
    So what kind of visa do I have to take?
    Can I become a korean citizen since I wish to migrate there too(is it possible?)
    What requirements should I bring to taguig?

    If I get to stay in Korea until my visa's expiration, how can I renew it? Will I have to pay for something?

    Hoping for a reply.
    It'd be of great help.
    Thank you :)

    ReplyDelete
  106. Anonymous8.10.12

    Hi sir ivan... What if i dont have emp.cert or bus.registration and ITR, pwede nba ung car reg., bank statement and credit card statement? Im already depressed bec of ITR na yan en emp.cert. i heard n khit my tatak n ngnibang ang passport, dp rin guaranteed n mkakuha k ng visa

    ReplyDelete
  107. Anonymous9.10.12

    Hi Sir Ivan, greetings :)

    I am working also in Saudi Arabia and i want to visit my parents who are currently working there, is there any way you can help me on this? do I also need to submit documents required for obtaining VISA although i just plan to have a stopover in Seoul for a week. Is there an Airline whom you can suggest for this trip.. thanks in advance and godbless..

    ReplyDelete
  108. Anonymous14.10.12

    Hi sir Ivan,

    I have a friend in south korea.
    He invited me to visit there.
    I am afilipino passport holder working here in Taiwan now.
    Can i apply a tourist visa there ?
    And what are the requirements needed?

    And how about visiting jeju island?
    I read it in some comment...It is a free visa to go there.
    May i know if how many days or the maximum days can be stay there?

    thank you ..waiting for your help sir.

    ReplyDelete
  109. Anonymous17.10.12

    Hi, Sir ivan

    mg aaply aq sa korean emabassy this thursday hopefully i will get a visa so i can visit my bf on nov 16..i already bought my 2 way ticket...my 100k din aq sa bank account q knkabahan aq n bka madeny...nlgay lng ung 100k knina kse sa BDO nman walang dates kung kelan na open ung account e...sa tingin nyo po madedeny aq?

    26.9.12

    --ei ill be in korean on nov 16 u want to meet mg isa lng kse aq e...-ayene

    ReplyDelete
  110. Anonymous17.10.12

    Hi Sir
    I plan to visit korea next year month of April i have korean friend whose inviting me. But i don't have job this time but i plan to open up my own business here,i also my own house but its under my brother's name i only signed as his attorney-fact.would it be possible to get a tourist visa? Please help me! send me an email.
    heres my email add: robeamarife@yahoo.com
    Thanks,Hope u can help me

    ReplyDelete
  111. Anonymous21.10.12

    Hi Sir Ivan,

    My sister, who has lived and worked in Korea for more than 10 years and secured a citizenship (divorced from a Korean national and now married a Filipino who also worked and stayed there for a few years), wants to visit her and stay for less than 59 days in Incheon. What is my chance to secure a Korean Visa for my case:
    *I quit my job this month (October 2012) and no new job yet.
    *I only have P20k in my bank account
    *Have traveled to Japan last March 2012 due to a company-sponsored overseas training.

    My mom will come home to Philippines in December and I was asked to replace her to look after things for my pregnant sister.

    Any piece of advice will help. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  112. Hello Sir Ivan. I just started having a job and what if I do not have ITR yet?

    ReplyDelete
  113. Hi Sir Ivan
    Thank you very much for sent us useful information. I will want to visit Korea in the next December. How many days before I could be apply visa? Maybe in the visa have a period of issue and expiry.
    Thank you, please send me email.
    B_Badamtsetseg2003@yahoo.com

    Best,
    Badam

    ReplyDelete
  114. Hi Sir Ivan
    Thank you very much for sent us useful information. I will want to visit Korea in the next December. How many days before I could be apply visa? Maybe in the visa have a period of issue and expiry.
    Thank you, please send me email.
    B_Badamtsetseg2003@yahoo.com

    Best,
    Badam

    ReplyDelete
  115. Anonymous27.10.12

    good m0rning sir!! how about if you want to work in south korea. what visa do i need and what are thd requirements?! thank you so much and God bless

    ReplyDelete
  116. We are planning a family trip to Korea this Christmas and I was wondering if there's such a thing as a family application. Both my husband and I have US visas while one of my daughters has already visited Korea. My other daughter has neither a Korean nor US visa and just graduated from college. Is there any way we can include her in our application without having to lodge an individual application for her in a different window? Thank you. I hope you can help.

    ReplyDelete
  117. Anonymous29.10.12

    if i've travelled to an OECD country, i'll only submit #1 right?

    So I will just submit my DTI since i have my own business. Do i need to submit my ITR?

    ReplyDelete
  118. Anonymous31.10.12

    Hi Ivan. I would just like to ask. I am a Filipino tourist here in Seoul. My visa is expiring this November 30, 2012. I came aall the way from London since I was a student there. .. I called the immigration and they said its not possible to extend my visa.so is there any possible way you know that I can still extend my stay here? or is there such thing as an extension..and im considering the option of going home so im asking how long will it take for me to reapply again from the Philippines?

    ReplyDelete
  119. hi Sir Ivan..will it be much better if korean visa application is through travel agency?

    ReplyDelete
  120. Anonymous11.11.12

    For multiple visa, how do u apply? I dont see any choices in the form? Do u need to pay first or after they approved it?

    ReplyDelete
  121. Anonymous12.11.12

    are all the documents to be submitted be in its original form? are they going to return all these whether approved or denied a visa? thank you..

    ReplyDelete
  122. Anonymous13.11.12

    hi, ivan. my mum and sisters are planning to visit south korea next year and i have some questions re the requirements. my mum will be 57 years old by the time of our travel and she's no longer working (she's receiving pension na from SSS) so she cannot present an ITR or COE. she has docs for land titles pero sila ng dad ko ang naka-pangalan. pwede na ba yun as an alternative?

    thanks...

    ReplyDelete
  123. HI,just curious how u got the 3yrs visa validity. I mean,yun po b ang na-issue once u applied for the visa or granted upon application of extension sa korea?tnx

    ReplyDelete
  124. Anonymous24.11.12

    hello sir ivan :) just want to know, cause i traveled malaysia last sept. i stayed 14days then next hongkong i stayed just only 3days this month.. im just worried if it will be affect my application for tourist visa in korea this year lang kasi yung travel ko baka magtaka kakagaling ko lang ng Hk then korea naman, pero complete naman req's ko, my magiging problema po ba ?

    ReplyDelete
  125. Anonymous3.12.12

    hi,ivan.my pamangkin and i are planing tour to korea next year this coming january my questions are paano kung wala trabaho ako 45years ako ung mga 2 ok mkakuha ng visa kc estudent sila ?so wala akong maipresent na kahit anong documents ...

    ReplyDelete
  126. Anonymous16.1.13

    helo sir ivan...just wanna ask if malaki ba ang possibility na ma aaprove ang korean visa ko kng mag aaply ako. my husband is currently working in incheon. am planning on visiting him sana.i am currently employed in a government office. i have title and declarations for some real properties like land, and i think i can secure that bank certification. I just have to know how much show money is required and how long does it usually take for a korean visa to get approved..thanks a lot......mariz

    ReplyDelete
  127. Hello po Sir Ivan, magandang gabi po sa inyo. Sir tanung ko lng po sa case ko. Galing na po ako ng korea noon for five years. Ex husband ko is korean at divorced n po kami sa korea nung 2009. Nagtnt po ako doon ng 1 year mahigit, tapos umuwi po ako ng kusa dito sa pinas. May kapatid din po ako na may asawang koreano at ang asawa nya ang mag invite sakin for a tourist visa. May asawa n po ako ngayon na american bago lang po kami nagsubmit ng spouse visa ang asawa ko papuntang US. habang nag aantay po ako para sa interview kasi matagal tagal p po daw pag US visa 8 months or year pa po daw . Kaya gusto ko po at ng kapatid ko nainvite po ako ppuntang korea while waiting po sa US visa ko. tanung ko lng po wala po akng trabaho dito at wala ding bank account. Pero nakapunta n din po ako ng germany for tourist visa din po. Kasi US air force po ung asawa ko. at nung nasa germany sya nag tourist po ako doon. Nasa US na po sya nakastation ngayon. tanung ko lng po yong visa na nagtourist ako ng germany pwd po ba yon sa sa requirements na: photocopies of OECD countries visa and arrival stamps. at wala din po akong work, pwd din po ba mga bills ko sa internet and receipt ng western union na pinapadalhan ako ng asawa ko? At sir pwd din po kaya akong mag apply ng doule visa kung sakali? Cge po maraming salamat po in advance sa sagot. Sorry po ang haba ng tanung ko. God bless po :)

    ReplyDelete
  128. Hi po :) just wanted to ask about the multiple entry visa. Would you be able to get it if you qualify only one of the listed criteria?

    ReplyDelete
  129. hello good day i kinda have a problem regarding my visa application i'm trying to apply for a tourist visa i'm not a student and i don't have so it's impossible for me to have an itr also this trip was a treat by my cousin in the US because it's her gift for me so can i just passed her documents? like her itr or bank certificate? please help me

    ReplyDelete
  130. Hi sir Ivan...just want to ask kung ok po b 2ng requirements k n ipa2sa as business visa..BASIC REQUIREMENTS, ITR, DTI and BNK CERTIFICATE..even without the mayor's permit..what do you think,sir? thank you and hope for your reply...

    ReplyDelete
  131. Hi everyone, it's always best to contact the embassy for your specific queries:

    Embassy of the Republic of Korea
    122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center
    Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634 Philippines
    Tel. No. (02) 8569210, Fax No. (02) 8569024 (Consular Section)
    E-mail: philippines@mofat.go.kr or ph04@mofat.go.kr (Consular Section)

    ReplyDelete
  132. thanks for this very informative post but i just feel bothered about the questions that may be raised by them during the interview.

    ReplyDelete
  133. Anonymous12.3.13

    Hi Sir Ivan, ask ko lang kung 12 person kami sa family kailangan ba na lahat kami pupunta sa korean embassy o pwede na 2 representative lang sa family ang mag submit ng application. thank you po.

    ReplyDelete
  134. Anonymous16.3.13

    i have no job and my brother will finance the trip to korea. what document should i bring coz i dont have any bank account. hope for a reply. thanks

    ReplyDelete
  135. Anonymous28.3.13

    I just wanted to ask if theres a big chance for me to be granta tourist visa in Korea, my husband is a Germn and we just got married last Dec 2012, I only filed a tourist visa last march 21, 2013 bcoz i used his surname in my passport and i took us so long.. Sir do you think i can make it?>< i really wanted to go there to namsan tower with my husband to do the locks of love as i promise to myself when i was single>< Thanks. :)

    ReplyDelete
  136. Anonymous29.4.13

    Can i apply for the visa now and travel in july?

    ReplyDelete
  137. hi guys, i’m planning to visit South Korea next month June 29, 2013 but i just have opened a bank account this month. would it be a possible reason para ma deny ang application ko po? as far as i know, the embassy is asking for a bank statement for the past six months, yata po? heheheh..

    ReplyDelete
  138. Anonymous26.5.13

    Hi and Good day to you sir Ivan,

    I would like to ask some questions
    My friend would like to unvite me to go to busan for vacation or as a tourist and he will shoulder all my expenses during my stay in Busan.

    Could i possibly get the visa? I just got a job and i don't have ITR, Credit card but i have a personal bank account.

    ReplyDelete
  139. You can try. Best to call embassy for questions.

    ReplyDelete
  140. Anonymous20.6.13

    Hi! I am very much interested in getting a Korean visa coz ive been planning to go to Korea.. my problem is..

    i dont work now and i stopped school.. the itr part and bank account thingy.. how will i show them that? i mean are there any substitute??

    can i just show them my dads account since he is the one who will sponsor my travel when i go to korea..

    so.. as for me, my requirements would be.. what?? since i dont have a job and i stopped school. i will apply for tourist visa..

    can you please help me and do reply? im really confused.. Hoping for your reply ^^

    Please and Thank you

    ReplyDelete
  141. Hello! me and my korean husband planned to visit korea this coming September for 4 days together with our baby coz we are living here in the philippines, i was thinking what are ythe requirements of my baby that i need to submit to the embassy for her visit visa po sana.. Looking forward for your answer po,thanks a lot

    ReplyDelete
  142. hi im maricel im going to inchon korea for 3 days i already have hotel accomodation and retturn ticket its given by my friend the ticket and everything do i still need a visa for 3 days vacation in inchon korea

    ReplyDelete
  143. Anonymous15.10.13

    Hi! I am a newly licensed physician, so im still unemployed, therefore i dont have a COE, is there any document that i can use in replacement? thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  144. Im still a student and Im planning to travel in Korea. may I ask if it is necessary that I must study there to apply for a student travel visa?

    ReplyDelete

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