How I Applied for a Korean Tourist Visa in 2024
In this blog, I’ll share my experience applying for a Korean Tourist Visa (C-3) and the documents I submitted for myself and my sister. I’ll also discuss the visa process for other family members joining us in this trip, who are applying separately through a different agency since they live in another city.
Although I really wanted to apply at the new Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) in BGC for my first trip back to Korea since the pandemic, I ultimately chose Reli Tours at SM Megamall, since it was closer to where I live.
The staff at Reli Tours were incredibly helpful, guiding me through each step and advising me on how to streamline my documents by eliminating unnecessary items and making important revisions to my application form. While this meant returning with additional documents, I felt it was worth the extra effort, as it gave me confidence in my submission. However, their unreachable landline was a bit frustrating.
Let’s walk through the steps of my application—I hope my experience makes your process easier.
Applying for a Korean visa can be a straightforward process if you know the requirements and procedures to follow. So, here’s a detailed guide for employed Filipino passport holders looking to apply for a Korean visa, including important fields to fill out, processing details, and helpful tips.
What Type of Visa I applied for as an employed individual?
What is the C-3-9 Tourist Visa?
What are the requirements for Korean tourist visa as an employed individual?
Filling out the Korean Visa Application Form and the important fields you need to know
Korean tourist visa application process
Processing time
Korean Visa application processing time
Tracking Korean visa application process
What Type of Visa I applied for as an employed individual?
I applied for a C-3 (Short Term Visit) Visa. This visa is usually valid for 3 months from date of issue.
Requirements for Korean C-3 Tourist Visa for employed individuals
Here are the basic requirements for Korean C-3 Tourist Visa for employed individuals, and what I submitted according to my available documents.
1
Application form
Download the 5-page Korean Visa application form in your preferred format from the Korean Embassy website.
Read my Ultimate Guide to Filling Out Korean Visa Application Form below.
2. 1 piece of Passport-Size Colored Picture
- Must be taken within the last six months
- Size: 3.5 x 4.5 cm
- White background
What I submitted:
I had my photo taken at the Photoline studio also located at the 5th floor of Megamall bldg. B, very close to the Reli Tours office. It costs P120.00, includes 6 pcs passport size pictures and 6 pcs 1×1 ID pictures .
3. Original Passport
- Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Must have at least one blank page.
4. Photocopy of Passport Bio-page (page 2)
What I Submitted:
I submitted a printed picture of my bio page (page 2). Since it only said page 2 in the list of requirements, I even used a digital scanner mobile app to straighten the sides, thinking, it would would look more presentable that way. However, I was told by the Reli staff to submit a photocopy, meaning, by using a photocopy (xerox) machine or a conventional scanner, with the passport facing down, which will include the signature page (page 3).
5. Original & Photocopy of valid visa/s and arrival stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years (If applicable only)
What I submitted:
Initially, I only prepared copies of my OECD visas from the past 5 years. However, I was told to also include photocopy of other travel stamps from the past five years even from none OECD countries.
I initially submitted copies of my OECD visas from January and June 2019, thinking they were valid since they were technically 5 years old. However, I was informed that only visas exactly 5 years old from the application date are accepted. Since I was applying in September, only OECD visas from September 2019 onwards are accepted.
6. Original Certificate of Employment [must include applicant’s position, date hired, compensation, office address, HR landline number (cell-phone number is not allowed), HR e-mail address]
What I submitted:
I submitted original copy of my COE with all the information required. Payslips are not required, but since my HR attached copies of my 3-month pay slips together with my COE, the agency decided to include them in my documents.
My company does not have a landline number. I could only provide a mobile number for HR. So, good luck to me. hehe
7. Original Personal Bank Certificate [must include account name, account number, account type, current balance, account opening date, 6 months average balance (ADB)]
What I submitted:
Original Bank Certificate with the details required. If you have multiple bank accounts, you may want to submit Bank Certificates for them as well.
8. Bank Statement (original or certified true copy of bank statements/passbook for the last 3 months)
What I submitted:
Original Banks Statements for the last 3 months. If you have multiple bank accounts, you may want to submit Bank Statements for them as well. As for digital banks, printed transaction history is also accepted.
8. Photocopy of ITR (Income Tax Return) or Form 2316 or Letter of Explanation for the Absence of ITR
What I submitted:
I submitted a letter of explanation letter stating the reason as to why I do not have an ITR at the time of my application.
Filling Out the Application Form
The application form was relatively straightforward, but I made sure to pay close attention to the following fields:
- Personal Information: My full name, date of birth, nationality, and marital status.
- Passport Information: Passport number, issue date, and expiration date.
- Contact Information: My permanent address, contact number, and email.
- Travel Information: Purpose of visit (Tourism), duration of stay, planned entry and exit dates, and accommodation details.
- Make sure to double check all the fields and spellings before printing out, as a single mistake, even if it’s just as simple as a missing letter, you will have to start over.
- Make sure to sign the form before submission.
What is the C-3-9 Tourist Visa?
The C-3-9 tourist visa is a short-term tourism visa that allows you to stay in South Korea for up to 59 days. It’s perfect for anyone looking to soak in the culture, history, and vibrant life of this amazing country.
The Application Process
Once I gathered all my documents, I was ready to submit my application. I decided to go to the Korean Embassy in Manila, which was a bit nerve-wracking but also exciting.
Processing Time
I was informed that the processing time for the C-3-9 visa usually takes around 5 to 10 working days. To avoid any last-minute stress, I made sure to apply at least four weeks before my intended travel date.
Visa Fee
The visa fee can vary, so I checked the embassy’s website for the most current information. I prepared to pay the fee in cash when I submitted my application.
Tracking My Application
After submitting my application, I received a reference number to track its status. This was a huge relief, as I could check online without having to call the embassy.
How to Check Your Application Status
You can easily check the status of your visa application via the Korean Visa Portal website. Here’s how:
- Visit the Korean Visa Portal: Go to Korean Visa Portal.
- Click on “Visa Application”: Look for the option to check your application status.
- Enter Your Details: Input your application number and personal information as required.
- Submit: Click the submit button to view your application status.
This will give you the most up-to-date information regarding your visa application.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Application
Double-Check Everything: Before submitting, I reviewed all my documents to ensure everything was complete and accurate.
Apply Early: Give yourself plenty of time. I aimed for at least four weeks ahead of my travel plans.
Prepare for an Interview: Be ready to answer questions about your travel plans if required. I practiced a bit just in case.
Consider Using a Travel Agency: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a reputable travel agency can guide you through the process.
Follow Up: If the processing takes longer than expected, don’t hesitate to reach out to the embassy for updates.
In my Opinion
Applying for the C-3-9 tourist visa was a straightforward experience for me, thanks to thorough preparation and attention to detail. I hope my journey helps you feel more confident as you apply for your own visa to South Korea.
Once I receive the results of my application, I’ll be sure to update this blog with further informaton and tips as needed. Enjoy every moment of your travels, and embrace the adventure that awaits in the Land of the Morning Calm! Safe travels!
Important:
Please note that the information shared in this blog is based solely on my personal experience applying for the C-3-9 tourist visa for South Korea. Visa requirements and processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances and updates from the embassy. I encourage you to conduct your own research and consult official sources for the most accurate and current information. Your journey may differ from mine, and this blog is intended to provide guidance rather than a guarantee of results. Safe travels!