How to Book South Korea Visa Appointment?

Planning a trip to South Korea? Whether you’re excited to explore the vibrant streets of Seoul or the scenic beauty of Jeju Island, the first step is understanding how to book a South Korea visa appointment. 

This appointment is essential for submitting your tourist visa application, providing biometrics, and handing in all required documents at the designated visa center or consulate. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through each step to help you get your South Korea tourist visa on time!

How to Schedule a South Korea Visa Appointment?

If you are planning a trip to South Korea, scheduling your tourist visa appointment is the essential first step. For Indian residents, South Korea tourist visas (C‑3‑9) are processed through the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC).

Online Steps

1. Go to the Official KVAC Website

Visit http://www.visa.go.kr. Click on “Apply for a Visa” to begin.

2. Identify Your Visa Type

On the South Korea page, select C-3-9 Tourist Visa. Carefully review eligibility, document checklist, visa fees, biometric rules, and timelines. Make sure you meet all the requirements before proceeding.

3. Download and Fill the Visa Application Form

Download the official visa form from www.visa.go.kr. Print and fill it manually in capital letters or fill digitally and print. Ensure all information exactly matches your passport and travel documents.

4. Prepare Visa Documents

Ensure you have all supporting documents ready, including:

• Completed visa form
• Valid passport
• Two passport-size photos (as per Korea photo specs)
• Cover letter
• Flight tickets & accommodation bookings
• Financial documents (bank statements, ITR)
• Employment proof or student ID
• Travel insurance

6. Pay the Visa Fee

You can pay the visa fee and service charge in cash or card at the centre.

7. Collect the Receipt and Tracking Number

You’ll receive an invoice with a tracking number, which you can use to track your visa status online.

8. Track Application

Visit https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10201, go to Track Application, and enter your reference number and last name.

Suggested Read: South Korea Visa For Indians – Fees, Requirements, Process

Offline Steps

If you’re unable to navigate the online process, you can opt for an entirely offline visa application via the regional South Korea consulate.

1. Visit the Nearest South Korea Consulate

Go to your nearest authorized South Korea Visa Application Centre (New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad). Check working hours beforehand.

2. Collect or Print Visa Form

You can download the visa form from the Korea Visa Portal or collect it from the counter.

3. Submit Documents

Submit the filled form with your passport, photos, and supporting documents as per the tourist visa checklist.

4. Pay the Visa Fee

Pay visa and service charges directly at the centre. You’ll receive a stamped receipt and a reference number.

5. Biometrics and Document Verification

Biometric data will be captured during submission. The staff will verify all documents.

6. Get Tracking Info and Updates

Keep your receipt safe. Use the reference number to track your application online or receive SMS/email updates.

7. Collect Your Passport

You will be notified once your passport is ready for collection. You can:

• Collect in person
• Send an authorized representative with a letter and ID
• Opt for courier delivery if available

Top Locations for South Korea Visa Appointment in India

1. New Delhi (Embassy of the Republic of Korea)
• Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, Delhi – 110001
• Timings: Mon–Fri | 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM (Submission), 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM (Collection)
• Phone: +91-22-67866013
• Email: [email protected]
2. Mumbai (Consulate General of the Republic of Korea)
• Address: Trade Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai – 400051
• Timings: Mon–Fri | 08:00 AM – 03:00 PM (Submission), 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM (Collection)
• Phone: +91-22-67866013
• Email: [email protected]
3. Chennai (Consulate General of the Republic of Korea)
• Address: Tower-C, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600008
• Timings: Mon–Fri | 08:00 AM – 03:00 PM (Submission), 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM (Collection)

Suggested Read: South Korea Visa Extension for Indian Travelers

What is the Purpose of a South Korea Visa Appointment?

The South Korea visa appointment is a key step in the tourist visa application process. It ensures that your application is complete, your documents are verified, and your biometrics are collected for identity confirmation. This appointment officially initiates your visa processing.

Purpose	Details
Document Submission	You submit your completed visa application form and supporting documents (passport, travel itinerary, hotel booking, insurance, financial proof).
Verification of Documents	The center staff reviews all documents to ensure accuracy and completeness as per South Korean embassy guidelines.
Biometric Data Collection	Your fingerprints and a passport-sized photograph are collected to establish your identity and are linked to your visa record.
Official Record	The appointment confirms your application is logged into the official system and can be tracked for status updates.
Application Completion	This step marks the formal beginning of the tourist visa processing by the South Korean authorities.

Must Read: South Korea Visa Photo Requirements for Indian Citizens

Documents Required for the South Korea Visa Appointment

To successfully schedule a South Korea visa appointment, make sure you have all the required documents prepared in advance. The following checklist applies strictly to tourist visa applicants from India and should be submitted during your walk-in visit to the center:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of return from South Korea and should have a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamps.
• Completed Visa Application Form: Download the official South Korea tourist visa form from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. Fill it in accurately and sign it, ensuring your signature matches the one on your passport.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 × 4.5 cm) taken within the last six months, with a white background and neutral facial expression.
• Financial Documents:
• Bank Statements: Last 3–6 months, showing sufficient funds to cover your trip.
• Income Tax Returns (ITR): At least for the past two years to establish financial stability.
• Optional: Fixed deposit slips or salary slips to strengthen your application.
• Travel Itinerary:
• Flight Bookings: A copy of your confirmed return flight tickets.
• Hotel Reservations: Proof of accommodation for your entire stay in South Korea.
• Employment Proof:
• Employed: A letter from your employer (NOC), salary slips, and leave approval letter.
• Self-Employed: Business registration certificate, company bank statements, and recent ITRs.
• Cover Letter: A clear and concise cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, travel dates, daily itinerary, and details of any travel companions.
• Invitation Letter (if applicable): If visiting friends or family, include an invitation letter from your Korean host along with their ID copy and address details.
• Sponsorship Documents (if applicable): If your travel is sponsored, submit the sponsor’s financial documents, such as bank statements, ITRs, and a letter confirming sponsorship.
• Proof of Residency: Submit recent utility bills, rent agreement, or Aadhaar card as proof of your current Indian residence if asked by the consulate.

Note: Make sure to carry both originals and photocopies of these documents. Incomplete or inaccurate submissions may lead to rejection or delays. All documents should be in English or Korean or accompanied by certified translations.

Suggested Read: Famous Monuments in South Korea You Must Visit

Photograph Requirements for All Types of Visas for South Korea

Size and Dimensions:

• The photograph must be 35mm wide and 45mm high (1.38 x 1.77 inches).
• Your face should occupy 70–80% of the image, with the distance from chin to crown between 32–36mm.
• The photo must clearly show your full face, centered and facing forward.

Background:

• A plain white or light-colored background is required.
• The background must be free of patterns, shadows, or objects.

Face and Expression:

• Your face must be centered and fully visible from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin.
• Maintain a neutral expression, with eyes open and mouth closed.
• No smiling, teeth showing, or exaggerated expressions are allowed.
• Hair must not cover your eyes or any part of your face.
• Head coverings are only permitted for religious reasons and must not obstruct facial features.

Other Requirements:

• The photo must be recent (taken within the last six months).
• It should be high-resolution, clear, and printed on standard photographic paper.
• Glasses are discouraged, but if worn, they must not reflect light or hide the eyes.
• No hats, caps, or sunglasses allowed unless required for religious purposes.

Suggested Read: 25 Best Things To Buy In South Korea That Will Transform Your K-Shopping Experience

South Korea Visa Fees for Indians 

Fee Category	Visa Fee (INR)
Tourist Visa (1 month–1 year)	Rs. 9,700 (approx. 154,970 KRW)
Tourist Visa (2–5 years)	Rs. 18,800 (approx. 299,770 KRW)
OneVasco Service Fee	Rs. 2,500
Service Charges	Rs. 370 (approx. 5,770 KRW)
SMS Notification Service (Optional)	Rs. 95 (approx. 1,500 KRW)

Note:

• Visa fees are subject to change based on the latest exchange rates and South Korean embassy policies.
• All payments are non-refundable, even if your visa is rejected.
• Payments must be made via bank transfer to the designated Korea account:
• Bank Name: Shinhan Bank
• Account Number: 140-014-727882
• Account Holder Name: 브이에프에스코리아 (South Korea)
• Cash, ATM slips, mobile banking receipts, or cheques are not accepted.
• You must submit the original payment receipt with your visa application at the Seoul center.
• Optional courier service to receive your passport at home is available for an additional 9,000 KRW (~Rs. 570).
• Express services are not available for Indian nationals (only for Korean passport holders).

Must Read: How to Check South Korea Visa Status for Indians

How Much is the Waiting Time for a South Korea Visa Appointment?

The average waiting time for a South Korea tourist visa appointment is generally short, with walk-in availability at centers. However, visa processing times can vary depending on demand, location, and the season. 

Factor	Details
Appointment Availability	Walk-in basis; usually accepted within 3–7 days of your preferred date.
Processing Time	Short-term tourist visas take 5–10 working days. Long-term visas may take 15+ days.
Peak Seasons	Summer (May–August) and Winter Holidays (Nov–Dec) may cause longer processing delays.
Location	High-traffic centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai may take slightly longer due to volume.
Application Completeness	Incomplete or incorrect applications may result in added delays due to clarifications.
Administrative Checks	Some cases may undergo additional review, extending the timeline by a few days or more.

Note: These timelines apply strictly to short-term tourist visas and may change based on embassy workload or additional administrative processing requirements.

Tips for a Successful South Korea Visa Interview 

• Be Prepared: Know your South Korea travel plans clearly. Be ready to explain your itinerary, travel dates, flight bookings, hotel reservations, places to visit, and planned activities. Keep all supporting documents neatly arranged and easily accessible for the visa officer.
• Be Honest: Answer all questions truthfully. Don’t exaggerate your purpose or hide any information. Clearly explain why you are visiting South Korea, how long you plan to stay, and how you are funding the trip. Honest and straightforward answers help build credibility.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear clean, formal or semi-formal clothes to reflect respect for the process. Avoid very casual outfits like shorts or T-shirts, and do not wear anything flashy.
• Arrive on Time: Reach the center at least 15 minutes early. Being punctual shows responsibility and ensures you don’t miss your turn due to delays or last-minute issues.
• Practice Common Questions: Expect questions like “Why do you want to visit South Korea?”, “How long will you stay?”, “Do you have confirmed bookings?”, or “How will you finance your trip?”. Practice giving calm, direct answers that match the details in your application form.
• Stay Calm and Confident: Speak clearly, maintain eye contact, and sit upright. Don’t rush your responses. If you don’t understand a question, politely ask the officer to repeat it.
• Demonstrate Strong Ties to India: Be prepared to explain why you will return, such as your job, family, ongoing education, or property. Showing strong reasons to come back helps convince the officer that you won’t overstay.
• Be Organized: Carry your documents in a properly labeled folder. This makes the process smooth and leaves a professional impression. Keep original documents and copies arranged as per the checklist.
• Maintain Respect and Politeness: Speak respectfully, even if questions seem strict or repetitive. Do not interrupt the officer and thank them at the end.
• Review Everything Beforehand: Double-check your application form, documents, and visa fee receipts before going for the interview. Make sure there are no errors or mismatches in your data.

Must Read: Planning Winter in South Korea – Weather, Festivals, Things To Do & More

How to Track South Korea Visa from India ?

Online Portal:

South Korea offers a dedicated online portal to track your South Korea tourist visa application. 

• Visit the official South Korea tracking page
• Click on the “Track Your Application” tab. 
• Enter your Reference Number (as printed on the receipt) and Last Name exactly as provided during submission. 
• Fill in the captcha and click “Submit” to see your application status.

Application Number:

At the time of your submission at the center, you’ll receive a receipt with a unique reference number. This number is essential for tracking your visa status. It is also required for any further communication or follow-up with the centre. Keep this safe to avoid delays or confusion.

Direct Inquiry:

Suppose the online tracking portal doesn’t show updates or your visa status remains unchanged beyond the estimated processing time. In that case, you can directly contact the South Korea Visa Application Centre where you submitted your documents. 

Use the contact number or email mentioned in your appointment confirmation or visit the official South Korea website for location-specific support.

Note:

You will receive an email notification once your passport is ready for collection or dispatch. If you opted for SMS updates during form submission, you may also receive real-time SMS alerts about your visa status and passport movement. 

Must Read: Uncover the Joys of Summer in South Korea: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

FAQs

Is it mandatory to visit the visa center personally? Can someone else apply on my behalf?

Yes, personal appearance is mandatory for all South Korea tourist visa applicants. Biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) must be provided in person at the center. A representative can only collect the passport after visa processing, but cannot submit the application or attend on your behalf.

How early should I apply for a South Korea tourist visa?

It is recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned travel. During peak seasons (like summer and winter holidays), apply 5–6 weeks in advance to avoid delays.

What is the waiting time for a South Korea visa appointment in India?

Appointments are walk-in only, so there’s no slot waiting period. However, visa processing takes 5–10 working days depending on season and center location.

What questions can I expect during the South Korea tourist visa appointment?

For tourist visas, there is no formal interview. However, staff may ask basic questions like:

• What is the purpose of your trip?
• How long will you stay in South Korea?
• Do you have confirmed bookings?
• Who is funding your travel?

Is there a dress code for the South Korea visa appointment?

There is no official dress code, but neat, formal, or semi-formal attire is advised. Avoid very casual wear, as professional presentation helps.

What should I do to avoid cancellation of my South Korea visa application?

Make sure to:

• Submit complete and correct documents
• Attach proof of payment for visa fees
• Follow photo specifications and guidelines
• Visit the KVAC center on time

Can I reschedule my South Korea visa appointment?

No rescheduling is needed, as South Korea tourist visas follow a walk-in submission process. Visit your nearest KVAC center during working hours.

How can I request an expedited visa appointment for South Korea?

South Korea does not offer expedited tourist visa appointments for Indians. You can, however, explain your urgency in a cover letter, but approval is solely at the consulate’s discretion.

Do children and infants need separate visa appointments?

Yes, every applicant including infants must submit a separate visa application. Children under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and all documents must reflect parental consent.

What happens if I’m late for my South Korea visa appointment?

Since the system is walk-in, late arrivals may face long wait times or be asked to return another day. It’s best to arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.

What is the easiest way to get a South Korea visa appointment slot?

No appointment slot is required. Just walk into any authorized center for South Korea with all documents during their submission hours.

Is a biometric appointment mandatory for South Korea tourist visas?

Yes, biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) is mandatory and must be submitted in person at the time of application. No exceptions are made for walk-in submissions.