A South Korean Transit Visa is required if you’re transiting through South Korea and need to stay for a short period before continuing your journey to another country. However, many travelers do not need a transit visa if they are only staying in the airport’s transit area for a short time.
Here’s what you need to know about South Korean Transit Visas:
Who Needs a Transit Visa?
- Most travelers do not need a transit visa if they stay in the airport’s transit area and their layover is less than 24 hours.
- You may need a transit visa if:
- You want to leave the airport during your layover.
- Your layover exceeds 24 hours.
- You’re transiting to North Korea (in most cases, special arrangements are required).
- Your nationality requires a visa for even short transits (check with the South Korean embassy).
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Who Does Not Need a Transit Visa?
- Travelers from visa-exempt countries typically do not need a transit visa.
- If your connecting flight departs within 24 hours and you do not leave the transit area of the airport, you are usually not required to get a visa.
- Visa Waiver Program: Certain nationalities are allowed to transit or even stay in South Korea for a short period (often up to 30 or 90 days) without a visa.
Transit Tour Programs:
- South Korea’s Transit Tour Programs allow transit passengers with at least a 5-hour layover to take short tours around Seoul or Incheon without needing a visa. These tours must be booked in advance and are limited to certain nationalities.
Requirements for a Transit Visa:
If you need a South Korean Transit Visa (B-2), you will need to provide the following documents:
- Completed Visa Application Form:
- Available from the Korean Visa Portal or the nearest South Korean embassy/consulate.
- Valid Passport:
- Must be valid for at least six months beyond your transit period.
- Passport-Sized Photograph:
- Generally 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm with a white background.
- Flight Itinerary:
- Proof of onward travel, including tickets to your final destination.
- Visa for the Next Destination (if required):
- If your next destination requires a visa, you must show that you already have the visa or that your entry will be allowed.
- Transit Visa Fee:
- Fees vary by nationality and embassy/consulate.
Application Process:
- Submit Documents: You can apply at the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country or the country you are currently in.
- Processing Time: The typical processing time ranges from 5 to 15 business days, depending on the embassy and time of year.
Special Situations:
- Multiple Transit Countries: If you are traveling through multiple countries before reaching your final destination, make sure to have the necessary documents for all transits.
- Seoul and Jeju Island Exemptions:
- If you plan to visit Jeju Island only, some nationalities can stay up to 30 days visa-free even if they are just transiting through another South Korean city like Seoul.
K-ETA for Transit Travelers:
- If your country is eligible for visa-free travel to South Korea for short stays, you may need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) instead of a transit visa. The K-ETA allows short stays in South Korea (up to 90 days), even if you’re transiting.