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Vietnam passport → South Korea

South Korea visa for citizens of Vietnam

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa (C-3-9) - Single Entry

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

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) - Single Entry
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 30 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesSingle entry
Processing time5–7 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 minimum balance of $3,000 USD or equivalent

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare required documents

    Gather all documents listed above, ensuring originals and copies as needed

  2. 2

    Book an appointment

    Schedule appointment online via VFS Global or Korean embassy website

  3. 3

    Submit application and biometrics

    Visit VFS center or embassy on appointment date; submit form, documents, and provide fingerprints

  4. 4

    Pay visa fee

    Pay government fee and service fee (if using VFS) at submission counter

  5. 5

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 5-7 working days; status can be tracked online

  6. 6

    Collect passport

    Return to VFS/embassy with receipt to collect passport with visa (or opt for courier if available)

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport (original and copy of bio page)

    Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date

  • Completed visa application form (Form 34)

    Download from Korean embassy website or VFS

  • Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm, white background)

    Taken within last 6 months

Travel

  • Flight itinerary (round-trip reservation)

    Not necessarily purchased, but confirmed booking

  • Hotel reservation or accommodation proof

    For entire stay in South Korea

Financial

  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)

    Original with bank stamp, showing sufficient balance

  • Income tax return or proof of income

    Optional

    May be requested to verify financial stability

Employment

  • Employment letter (or business registration for self-employed)

    Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

  • Travel insurance (optional but recommended)

    Optional

    Coverage of at least $30,000 for medical emergencies

  • Copy of previous visas (if any)

    Optional

    Especially for travel to developed countries

  • Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, if applicable)

    Optional

    For married applicants traveling with spouse

  • Visa fee payment receipt

    Pay at VFS or embassy upon submission

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: $3,000 USD

  • Bank statements
  • Income tax returns
  • Fixed deposit certificates

Balance should be consistent and not just deposited recently

Good to know

  • Visa-free transit (up to 30 days) is available only if holding a valid US, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand visa and arriving from/departing to those countries.
  • Visa-free access to Jeju Island for 30 days is available for Vietnamese passport holders.
  • Group tourists can only travel to the Gangwon region under specific conditions.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial proof

Provide bank statements showing stable income and adequate balance (at least $3,000 USD)

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form; use the latest version

Previous visa violations or overstay

Disclose any past issues honestly and provide explanation if needed

Lack of strong ties to home country

Submit employment letter, property documents, or family ties to demonstrate return intention

FAQ

Do citizens of Vietnam need a visa for South Korea?

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

How long can citizens of Vietnam stay in South Korea?

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: $40 + $20 service fee.

How long does South Korea visa processing take?

Typically 5–7 days.

What documents do citizens of Vietnam need for South Korea?

Valid passport (original and copy of bio page); Completed visa application form (Form 34); Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm, white background); Flight itinerary (round-trip reservation); Hotel reservation or accommodation proof; Bank statements (last 3-6 months); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for South Korea?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to South Korea

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