South Korea

Traveling to South Korea: Is a Visa Required?

South Korea attracts millions of visitors each year with its dynamic culture, technological innovations, and rich history. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey holding an ordinary (maroon) passport are exempt from visas for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or family visits. However, to benefit from this visa exemption, it is mandatory to obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before traveling. For stays exceeding 90 days for purposes such as education, work, or settlement, an application for a long-term visa appropriate for the purpose is required.

Visa-Free Travel to South Korea and the K-ETA Procedure

The K-ETA, an electronic permit required for citizens of visa-exempt countries before entering South Korea, aims to streamline the entry process. This permit is not a visa, but it is a mandatory prerequisite to exercise the right to visa-free travel.

What is K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)?

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is a system that citizens of visa-exempt countries must apply for online before short-term travel to South Korea for purposes like tourism, family visits, event participation, or business meetings. An approved K-ETA is generally valid for multiple entries for 3 years from the date of issue or until the passport expires. However, this permit does not grant the right to stay for more than 90 days or to work in the country.

How to Apply for K-ETA?

The K-ETA application is completed entirely online via the official website or mobile application. The application process generally includes the following steps:

• Filling Out the Application Form: Details such as passport information, personal details, travel itinerary, and accommodation address must be entered completely.
• Uploading a Passport-style Photo: A recent digital photo in the specified format and size is uploaded to the system.
• Paying the Application Fee: The application fee is paid online with a credit or debit card.

Applications are usually processed within 72 hours, but this period may be longer during peak times. Therefore, it is recommended to complete the application at least a few weeks before the planned travel date.

South Korea Visa Types for Stays Exceeding 90 Days (D-Visa)

For situations requiring a stay in South Korea for more than 90 days (e.g., education, work, family reunion), a national visa (D-type visa) application must be made. These visas are divided into different categories based on the purpose of stay.

South Korea Student Visas (D-2 and D-4)

There are two main types of visas for students planning to study in South Korea:

• D-4 Visa (General Training): Issued to students who will attend courses for more than 90 days at an educational institution, such as a Korean language school. A letter of acceptance from the school and documents proving financial sufficiency are essential for the application.
• D-2 Visa (Higher Education): Required for students enrolled in undergraduate, master's, or doctoral programs at a South Korean university. The most important document for this visa is the official Certificate of Admission from the university.

South Korea Work and Business Visas

There are various visa types for working or conducting business in South Korea, which vary according to the purpose of stay and professional qualifications. For instance, E-series visas are for specific professional groups (E-7 Visa: Special Occupations), while the D-8 visa is for corporate investors. The most fundamental requirement for work visa applications is an employment contract from the employer in South Korea and approvals from the relevant official institutions.

South Korea Long-Term Visa Application Process

Long-term (D-type) South Korea visa applications are made to the South Korean diplomatic missions in Turkey. The application process is generally conducted in person, and an appointment is mandatory.

For applications, a visa appointment must first be made through the online system of the relevant mission, either the South Korean Embassy in Ankara or the Consulate General in Istanbul, depending on their jurisdiction. On the day of the appointment, all documents required for the application type (application form, passport, biometric photo, documents proving the purpose of travel, financial documents, etc.) must be submitted completely. The evaluation process may vary depending on the visa type and seasonal workload.

South Korea Visa Process with Hermes Vize

The South Korea visa application process, especially for long-term visas, can be complex and detailed. Hermes Vize, with its consultants who are proficient in all current procedures from K-ETA permits to student and work visas, supports you in preparing your application file accurately and completely. To manage the process with professional assistance and increase your application's chances of success, you can contact us.