South Korea — the Land of the Morning Calm — has captured the imagination of Indian travellers like never before, fuelled by K-pop, K-dramas, Korean cuisine, and the country’s stunning mix of ancient temples and ultra-modern cities. Seoul, Jeju Island, Busan, and the DMZ are firmly on the Indian bucket list. This complete 2026 guide covers everything about the South Korea visa for Indians.
Do Indians Need a Visa for South Korea?
Yes, Indian passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea. Indians need to apply for a C-3 Short-Stay Tourist Visa through the Korean consulate in India or through the K-ETA electronic travel authorisation system if eligible.
K-ETA Update 2026: The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is available for nationals of certain visa-exempt countries. Indian passport holders are generally not eligible for K-ETA and must apply for a regular tourist visa. Always verify the latest status on the official Korean immigration website.
Types of South Korea Visa for Indians
| Visa Type | Stay Duration | Fee | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|
| C-3 Single Entry Tourist | Up to 90 days | KRW 60,000 (~₹3,700) | 5–7 working days |
| C-3 Multiple Entry Tourist | Up to 90 days per visit | KRW 90,000 (~₹5,500) | 5–7 working days |
| C-3 Double Entry | Up to 90 days | KRW 75,000 (~₹4,600) | 5–7 working days |
South Korea Visa Documents Required for Indians
- ✅ Valid Indian passport — 6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages
- ✅ Completed visa application form (from Korean consulate website)
- ✅ Passport-size photograph (white background, 35×45mm)
- ✅ Confirmed return flight ticket
- ✅ Hotel booking or itinerary
- ✅ Bank statement — last 6 months showing sufficient funds
- ✅ Income proof — salary slips, IT returns, or business documents
- ✅ Employment proof — employer letter or business registration
- ✅ Travel insurance
How to Apply for South Korea Visa from India — Step by Step
- Download the application form from the Korean Consulate General website for your city (Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi, Kolkata).
- Fill in the form accurately — include all personal, passport, and travel details.
- Gather all documents as per the checklist above.
- Visit the consulate or VFS: Submit your application at the Korean Consulate or authorised VFS Global centre in your city.
- Pay the visa fee at the time of submission.
- Wait for processing — typically 5–7 working days. Your passport will be returned with the visa stamped inside.
South Korea Visa Fees for Indians 2026
| Visa Type | Fee (KRW) | Approx. INR |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | KRW 60,000 | ~₹3,700 |
| Double Entry | KRW 75,000 | ~₹4,600 |
| Multiple Entry | KRW 90,000 | ~₹5,500 |
Top Attractions in South Korea for Indian Tourists
- 🏙️ Seoul — Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong shopping, Namsan Tower
- 🏝️ Jeju Island — volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, Hallasan Mountain
- 🌊 Busan — Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, fresh seafood
- 🌸 Gyeongju — ancient Silla kingdom tombs and UNESCO heritage sites
- 🎭 DMZ Tour — the world’s most heavily guarded border, a sobering experience
South Korea Visa FAQs for Indians
Can Indians get a South Korea visa on arrival?
No, Indian passport holders cannot get a South Korea visa on arrival. You must apply in advance at a Korean consulate or VFS Global centre in India.
How much does a South Korea visa cost for Indians?
A single-entry South Korea tourist visa costs KRW 60,000 (~₹3,700). Multiple-entry is KRW 90,000 (~₹5,500).
How long does South Korea visa processing take?
South Korea tourist visa processing takes approximately 5–7 working days from the date of application submission.
Where do Indians apply for South Korea visa?
Indians can apply at the Korean Consulate General in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, or Kolkata, or at authorised VFS Global centres across India.
Is there a direct flight from India to South Korea?
Yes, Air India and Korean Air operate direct flights from Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport) to Seoul (Incheon International Airport). Flight time is approximately 8–9 hours.
What is the best time to visit South Korea from India?
Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for foliage are the most popular times. Winter is great for skiing at Pyeongchang.
Do I need an interview for South Korea visa?
South Korea tourist visa applications from India generally do not require an interview. However, the consulate may call for an interview at their discretion.
🇰🇷 Ready for South Korea?