---
title: South Korea visa for citizens of India
description: "Citizens of India need a visa for South Korea and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: $40 + $20 service fee. Processing: 5–10 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-korea/india
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Korea visa for citizens of India

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

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Tourist Visa (C-3) · Single Entry
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** 5–10 days
- **Government fee:** $40 + $20 service fee
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds for the trip

## How to apply

1. **Prepare documents** — Gather all required documents per the checklist for your applicant category.
2. **Book appointment** — Schedule an appointment at the Korea Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in your region.
3. **Submit application in person** — Attend the centre with originals and copies, pay the visa fee, and provide fingerprints.
4. **Track application** — Monitor status online via the VFS tracking reference.
5. **Collect passport** — Pick up the passport with visa (or arrange courier) once processing is complete.

## Documents checklist

- **Passport (original)** (Identity): Valid at least 6 months beyond travel with blank visa pages.
- **Visa application form (Form 17)** (Identity): Completed and signed, downloadable from the Korea visa portal.
- **Recent passport photo** (Identity): 35mm x 45mm, white background, taken within last 6 months.
- **Copy of passport bio page** (Identity): Photocopy of the data page.
- **Bank statements (last 3–6 months)** (Financial): Original stamped statements showing sufficient funds.
- **Income tax returns / ITR** (Financial): Latest assessment year ITR acknowledgement.
- **Employment certificate** (Employment): Employer letter stating position, salary and approved leave; students provide school letter.
- **Confirmed flight itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip reservation covering entry and exit.
- **Hotel booking / accommodation proof** (Travel): Confirmed reservations for the stay in Korea.
- **Day-by-day travel itinerary** (Travel): Detailed plan of activities in Korea.
- **Cover letter** (Supporting, optional): Explaining purpose of visit and travel plans.
- **Valid visa/residence permit of US, Australia, Canada, NZ or Schengen (if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): Enables transit/tourist visa facilitation when travelling to/from those countries.

## Proof of funds

- Bank statements (3–6 months)
- Income tax returns
- Employment/salary certificate

Consistent banking history and adequate funds for the trip duration are expected; no fixed minimum is published.

## Good to know

- Indian passport holders generally need a visa for South Korea; K-ETA is not a substitute for visa-required nationals.
- A 30-day transit/tourist visa facilitation may apply only if you hold a valid visa or permanent residency of US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand or Schengen and are travelling to/from those countries.
- Fees and processing times vary by visa centre and season; verify current figures before applying.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient or inconsistent funds** — Provide stamped bank statements with steady balances and no sudden large deposits.
- **Unclear purpose of visit** — Submit a detailed day-by-day itinerary with confirmed bookings.
- **Weak home-country ties** — Include employment letter, approved leave and proof of return obligations.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of India need a visa for South Korea?

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

### How long can citizens of India stay in South Korea?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: $40 + $20 service fee.

### How long does South Korea visa processing take?

Typically 5–10 days.

### What documents do citizens of India need for South Korea?

Passport (original); Visa application form (Form 17); Recent passport photo; Copy of passport bio page; Bank statements (last 3–6 months); Income tax returns / ITR; and 6 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for South Korea?

At least 6 months.

## Sources

- [South Korea Visa at Delhi Consulate - Documents & Appointment](https://www.mondy.in/visas/south-korea/consulates/delhi)
- South Korea Visa for India Citizens — Requirements & Fees (2026) (eammu.com, third-party site)
- South Korea Visa Documents for Indians 2026: Complete Checklist (timesofvisa.com, third-party site)
- visaforkorea.com (visaforkorea.com, third-party site)

## More

- [South Korea visa for every passport](/visa/south-korea)
- [Every destination for India passport holders](/visa/passport/india)