This article, “Korean Visa Application: A Guide for Philippine Passport Holders,” details the visa application process for South Korea. Also, it has a comprehensive list of requirements for a Korean visa.
Disclaimer: Some information in this travel article changes too often. If you continue reading this article, you agree to cross-check information with the concerned authorities. Read the full terms.
Introduction
In the Philippines, the South Korean popular culture, commonly referred to as “Korean Wave” or just “Hallyu,” rose to prominence in the early 2000s. Hence, the emergence of K-pop, Korean dramas, “Hallyuwood,” and K-fashion has captivated the interest of many ardent Filipinos fans.
The rise of Korean popular culture in the Philippines has contributed immensely to the promotion of South Korea’s tourism sector. Despite the strong desire of many Filipinos to visit the “Land of the Morning Calm,” traveling to the country remains a hurdle for bearers of Philippine passports.
Filipinos can still set foot in South Korea even with a third-world passport, provided that you meet its visa requirements. As such, the article, “Korean Visa Application: A Guide for Philippine Passport Holders,” offers a comprehensive overview of the Korean visa application process.
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1. Determine the Visa to Apply
A visa is an official authorization that permits a citizen of a country to enter and leave a foreign land within a specified period. Much like Japan and numerous other visa-required countries, South Korea also extends visa options to its applicants. The Korea Immigration Service commonly issues the following types of visas, like family, student, employment, medical, and tourist visas.
Korean Visa Application Reminder: While the Korea Immigration Service also grants other types of tourist visas, this article will give emphasis to the holders of Philippine passport residing in the Philippines who are applying for a short-term tourist visa.
2. Collate All Requirements
Personal interviews are not a requirement for the Korean visa applications, unless advised otherwise. Nonetheless, it is imperative for the applicant to confirm that all documents to be submitted are bona fide, accurate, and complete.
Inadequate and inaccurate documentations might hinder the application process and, in the worst scenario, result in the refusal of a Korean visa if fraudulent documentation are found.
Passport
The Philippine passport, which certifies the bearer’s identification, is a legal document that the Philippine government issues to its citizens. It grants the holder of passport to travel abroad under its legal safeguards. As the fundamental requirement for Korean visa application, it is important that:
- The Philippine passport must be free of any damage, which include rips, tampering, folds, and unnecessary markings.
- It must remain in effect for at least six months from the planned departure.
- The third page of the passport needs to have the bearer’s signature attached.
- There must be at least two blank pages left in the passport book.
- A clear photocopy of the bio found on the second page of the passport must also be submitted.
- Detach the passport holder, cover, or case from the passport book.
Korean Visa Application Reminder: An applicant is also required to provide the old and travel-stamped passports with photocopies of stamped pages and previously granted visas.
Visa Application Form
A visa application form is a document that records the visa applicant’s identifiable information and travel-related details. This five-page documentation solicits data from the applicant that contains the passport and visitation details and some other pertinent information.
The Korean Immigration Service pays close attention to details. As such, ensure that all the information requested on the form is completely and accurately filled out. Here are some crucial reminders:
- A duly accomplished visa application form must be electronically written using an “Arial” font in size 12.
- Print the duly accomplished form on an A4-sized bond paper.
- Put the abbreviation ‘N/A’ in all fields if the details requested are not applicable or not available to the applicant. Moreover, tick all the boxes that matches your response Importantly, don’t leave the form unfilled.
- Affix signature and application date using a black ink once the form is completed.
A sample of a duly accomplished “Visa Application Form”
Photo
A headshot of the applicant is among the fundamental requirements for Korean visa application. The applicant, however, must adhere to the photo specifications.
- The photo must be taken within the last six months from the date of application.
- Photo dimension must be 35 mm x 45 mm or 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm.
- A color photograph must be captured in a white backdrop.
- The image must be high resolution and pixel-free.
- Do not staple the photo. Instead, attach the photo on the upper left corner of the visa application form using a glue.
Bank Certificate and Statement
South Korea is among the most expensive Asian destinations. Hence, it is imperative that the applicant have a steady income to fund the trip. In the absence of a guarantee or sponsor, the visa applicant must furnish bank certificates and statements as proof of financial capacity. However, the financial requirements need to fulfill these following conditions:
- Provide the recent three months record of the bank certificates and statements.
- Copies of financial requirements must be original and duly signed.
- The bank certificates must specify the account name and number. In addition, the document must clearly indicate the type of bank account, opening date, average daily balance, and remaining amount.
Korean Visa Application Reminder: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea does not specify a minimum bank balance. But a sudden large deposit could possibly lead to the application’s denial.
Income Tax Return
A copy of the income tax return, or ITR, is also an essential financial requirement for employees, professional practitioners, and business owners seeking a Korean visa. It serves as reliable evidence attesting to the applicant’s financial stability.
Employed persons are required to furnish a clear copy of their BIR Form 2316, or the Certificate of Compensation Payment and Tax Withheld. The duly accomplished annual income tax return, however, must satisfy these following requirements.
- The annual income tax return must be the latest issued copy.
- Submit a duplicate copy of the form on A4-sized bond paper.
Much like employed individuals, business owners, practitioners, and contractors are required to submit their BIR Form 1701 or BIR Form 1702, or the Certificate of Annual Income Tax Return.
- The annual income tax return must be the most recent issued copy.
- Provide a clear photocopy of the form on A4-sized bond paper.
Korean Visa Application Reminder: In the absence of the ITR, the applicant may also furnish a copy of a notarized affidavit.
Submission of financial requirements, such as bank certificates, statements, and income tax returns, exempts the following applicants up until December 31, 2025:
- ITR submission exempts a person who has traveled to OECD member states, such as Australia, Canada, the United States, and Europe, within the past five years. (with the exemption of Japan)
- All elected government officials, including lawmakers and those in the executive positions, are all exempt from financial documentation as long as the applicant submits a Certificate of Employment or Appointment. (until December 30, 2025)
- Professional license holders, such as lawyers and CPAs, are exempt from the submission of financial records and ITRs provided that the applicant furnish a copy of his/her IBP or PRC ID. (until December 30, 2025)
- Credit card holders of BDO, BPI, RCBC, and Metrobank are also exempt from financial requirements. The applicant must provide a photocopy of the credit card bearing the holder’s information and the previous three months’ credit card statements. (up until December 30, 2025)
Certificate of Employment
Employed applicants must submit an original copy of their employment certificate and a copy of company ID. It must explicitly state in the certification the applicant’s position, hiring date, salary, and contact information of their company.
Business Permits
Those who engage in business and trade must also provide photocopies of their DTI or SEC issued permits, BIR registration, and mayor’s or business permits. On the other hand, self-employed and freelance workers may submit clear copies of their transaction receipts or payslips.
Application for Sponsorship
Minors, students, retirees, housewives, and individuals who are unable to finance their travel expenditures may opt to apply for a sponsorship. A sponsor is a person or an organization who has the means to cover the sponsee’s travel expenses. They can be an immediate family member, relative, spouse, friend, partner, or an institution. Here are additional requirements:
Letter of Sponsorship
A letter of sponsorship is a document that guarantees financial support for a traveler, primarily for applications seeking visas. It specifies the sponsor’s undertaking to pay for the sponsee’s travel expenditures, which includes airfare, lodging, allowances etc.
Proof of Relationship
If the Korean visa applicant is seeking a sponsorship, proof of relationship, such as certificates of live birth and marriage, is a fundamental visa requirement to prove ties. However, these identity documentation must meet these guidelines:
- The birth and marriage certificates are PSA-certified true copies obtained from the Philippine Statistics Authority offices or any PSA Serbilis Centers.
- It must be issued within a year upon submission of the visa application.
Korean Visa Application Tip: Also, the applicant may additionally provide supporting documentation if there are discrepancies with the certificates of live birth and marriage.
- In the event of an unclear document, furnish a PSA-certified true copy of live birth and marriage certificates together with a copy from the local civil registry.
- For a late-registered certificate of live birth, furnish a clear photocopy of baptismal certificate or academic records with contact information of the institution.
- In case of no record, submit a copy of the “Negative Certification” from PSA together with a copy of the certificate of birth from the local civil registry.
Financial Documents
In addition to the letter of sponsorship and proof of relationship, furnish copies of the sponsor’s financial records, primarily bank certificates, statements, and annual income tax returns.
Korean Visa Application Reminder: Aside from the aforementioned visa requirements, sponsored applications must secure the following:
- Seniors must submit a clear copy of their senior citizen ID.
- Students must provide a valid copy of their enrollment certificate and a copy of school ID.
3. Submission of Requirements
Upon completion of all the necessary visa documents, the applicant may now proceed with the submission of requirements through a tour agency, courier, or onsite.
Travel Agency
Accredited third-party travel agencies, such as “Royal Kites Travel and Tours” and “Reli Tours and Travel Company,” accept Korean visa application requirements. However, the designated agencies charge a handling fee of PHP 1,500.00 per applicant on top of the Korean visa application service fee of PHP 900.00 for a short term or a visitation not exceeding 59 days.
Courier
Alternatively, hand out visa requirements to the Korean Immigration Service’s logistics partner, Wide Wide World Express, or simply W Express. The delivery service offers fast and practical logistical solutions through its numbers of locations nationwide. The W Express, much like its counterparts, requires a courier fee starting at PHP 1,000.00 for each application and additional PHP 900.00 for the visa processing fee.
On-Site
Visit the South Korean Embassy through its Korean Visa Application Center, or KVAC, in Taguig to process directly your Korean visa application. Although walk-in applicants are welcome, however, an online appointment in advance through the official website of Korea Visa Application Center is necessary to secure a time slot for the in-person visa application. Here are important details:
The Korean Visa Application Center Manila
Office Address: 9th Floor, Britanny Hotel, Aura Complex, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila
Business Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday (closed during weekends, Philippine and Korean Consulate holidays)
Contact Number: (02) 8248 5440
Email: kvacph@visaforkorea-mn.com
Korean Visa Application Tip: If you are living in the Visayas region, the Korean Consulate in Cebu also accepts walk-in applicants.
4. Wait for the Result
The processing period for a short-term visit typically ranges between 8 and 10 business days upon acceptance of the Korean visa application. However, visa processing time may lengthen for some reasons, including high application volume and incomplete and inaccurate documentation. Therefore, it is imperative to proceed with the application at least a month before the intended trip.
For updates, visit the Korean Visa Portal.
5. Claim the Passport
Expect an SMS, chat message, phone call, or electronic mail from your agent once the result of the Korean visa application has been made and the passport is ready for collection. Bring with you at least one valid government-issued ID and the original copy of the application receipt.
Moreover, prepare a copy of the “Notarized Special Power of Attorney” with each of the applicants valid government-issued identifications if a representative will pick up the passports on their behalf.
Following the approval of the Korean visa application, the applicant will receive a copy of the “Visa Grant Notice.” If the application is denied, however, a refusal slip will be sent out. The applicant may reapply after three months in the event of visa denial.
A sample of a “Visa Grant Notice”
Korean Visa Application Tip: The Korean Embassy does not disclose any specific reasons for the applicant’s ineligibility to obtain a Korean visa. Besides the insufficiency of financial resources, instability of employment, and inconsistency of documents, lack of travel history is probably a factor in visa denial. As such, establish travel history and visit visa-free countries and territories, which includes Hong Kong and Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the earliest possible time to apply for a Korean visa?
Start your application between one and two months before your intended travel. This will guarantee you adequate time to address arising concerns with your application while it is in process.
Does a cover letter have to be included in the visa application?
No. A cover letter, however, helps you justify related concerns you may have with your application. For instance, an explanation for unsubmitted documents.
Is it necessary to purchase flight tickets or make hotel reservations before applying for a Korean visa?
At your own discretion. The Korean Embassy does not, however, recommend you book a flight or make a hotel reservation prior to your visa application. Once a visa is denied, the embassy is not held responsible for any unused flights or lodgings.
How much money does one need to have in a bank?
Although financial resources are taken into account when applying for a Korean visa, the Embassy of South Korea withholds a specific sum. That being said, provide the highest possible savings account to commensurate with South Korea’s high cost of living and the number of intended days.
Are you looking for an easy-peasy solution to process your visa application and other travel documents, consult iVisa.com!
Final Thoughts
The Embassy of South Korea has outlined significant considerations when applying for a Korean visa. However, the approval or denial of the visa application may entirely depend on the applicants’ clear intentions and the capability to travel through their documentation. At the end of the day, it still lies in the hands of the Korean Embassy to determine whether the applicant is qualified for a stamp of approval.
About the Author
J. Sac is the author of “Korean Visa Application: A Guide for Philippine Passport Holders.” Moreover, he is the founder of Traveledictorian – a travel blog that publishes compelling travel-related content.
His passion for writing, photography, and travel fueled him to explore parts of Asia and soon the rest of the world. He also plans to undertake humanitarian work in his future travels. Read his inspiring story and follow him on social media!
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