Skip to content

Bhutan passport → South Korea

South Korea visa for citizens of Bhutan

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa (C-3-9)

Citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Korea and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Official application site

Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Tourist Visa (C-3-9)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 30 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesSingle entry
Processing time5–10 days
Government fee$40 + $20 service fee
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statement showing sufficient balance (approx. $1,000)

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare documents

    Gather all required documents as per checklist.

  2. 2

    Complete visa application form

    Fill Form 34 online or manually, then print and sign.

  3. 3

    Book appointment

    Schedule an appointment at the Korean Embassy in Thimphu or via VFS Global.

  4. 4

    Attend in-person submission and biometrics

    Visit the embassy/centre on appointment date, submit documents, and provide fingerprints and photo.

  5. 5

    Pay visa fee

    Pay the government fee (approx. USD 40) and service fee (if applicable) at the centre.

  6. 6

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 5-10 working days.

  7. 7

    Collect passport

    Return to the embassy/centre to collect your passport with visa sticker, or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and blank visa pages)

    Original plus copy of bio page

  • Visa application form (Form 34)

    Completed and signed

  • Passport-sized photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background)

    Taken within last 6 months

Travel

  • Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket)

    Confirmed reservation or e-ticket

  • Hotel reservation or accommodation proof

    For entire stay in Korea

Financial

  • Bank statement (last 3-6 months)

    Original with bank stamp, showing sufficient funds

  • Income tax return or payslips (if applicable)

    Optional

    To strengthen financial proof

Employment

  • Employment letter or proof of occupation

    Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

  • Travel insurance (optional but recommended)

    Optional

    Covering medical and travel risks

  • Copy of previous visas (if any)

    Optional

    Especially for travel to OECD countries

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. $1,000 USD equivalent

  • Bank statement
  • Income tax return
  • Payslips

Bank statement must be original with bank stamp and show consistent transactions.

Good to know

  • Visa is single entry only; re-entry requires a new visa.
  • Overstaying may result in fines or future visa denial.
  • Biometrics are mandatory for all applicants aged 17 and above.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient financial proof

Provide bank statement showing adequate balance and regular income.

Previous visa violations or overstay

Disclose any past issues and provide explanation if needed.

Suspicion of illegal immigration intent

Provide strong ties to home country (employment, property, family).

FAQ

Do citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Korea?

Citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Korea and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (C-3-9).

How long can citizens of Bhutan stay in South Korea?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the South Korea visa cost for citizens of Bhutan?

Government fee: $40 + $20 service fee.

How long does South Korea visa processing take?

Typically 5–10 days.

What documents do citizens of Bhutan need for South Korea?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and blank visa pages); Visa application form (Form 34); Passport-sized photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background); Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket); Hotel reservation or accommodation proof; Bank statement (last 3-6 months); and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for South Korea?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.visa.go.kr

Sources

Plan your trip to South Korea

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for South Korea.

South Korea visa for other passports

More destinations for Bhutan passport holders