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A-1 / A-2 — Diplomatic and Official Visa (A-1 / A-2)
VisasSouth KoreaA-1 / A-2 — Diplomatic and Official Visa (A-1 / A-2)
South KoreaSouth Korea•Asia
Open

A-1 / A-2 — Diplomatic and Official Visa (A-1 / A-2)

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

5–7 days

Estimated Cost

Free

Stay Duration

Duration of diplomatic assignment

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Non-immigrant status for diplomats, consular officials, administrative staff, foreign government representatives, and accompanying family members posted to Korea.

The Diplomatic and Official Visa (A-1/A-2) is for accredited diplomats, consular officers, and foreign government officials posted to South Korea. A-1 covers high-ranking diplomats; A-2 covers administrative and technical staff in official roles. Both require a diplomatic or official passport, accreditation, and an official dispatch letter or diplomatic note from the sending government.

This visa is granted for the duration of the assignment or mission, with renewal available. Fees are reciprocal or waived depending on bilateral arrangements. Processing takes 3–7 days through official channels. Dependents may accompany the holder. Work authorization is limited to official duties only.

This visa is ideal for accredited diplomats, consular officers, and government officials representing their state at diplomatic missions, consulates, or international organizations in South Korea.

Stay & Extensions

Status typeTied to program duration

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Official diplomatic note from sending government

Accreditation by Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Diplomatic or official passport

Assignment to diplomatic mission, consulate, or intergovernmental organization

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Completed visa application form

Valid diplomatic or official passport

Passport-sized photograph

Official letter of assignment or employment

Diplomatic note or formal communication from the sending state's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Proof of family relationship for accompanying dependents

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Fast processing at 3–7 days via Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordination
  • Renewable visa aligned with assignment duration
  • Dependents permitted to accompany on visa
  • Fees waived or reciprocal under diplomatic treaties
  • Work authorization for official government duties
  • Privileges and immunities under international law
  • Streamlined application via Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Worth Knowing

  • Requires official diplomatic note from sending government
  • Work restricted to official duties only — private employment prohibited
  • Spouse work authorization is restricted
  • Formal accreditation by Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs required
  • Must hold valid diplomatic or official passport
  • Restricted to accredited government officials, diplomats, and authorized representatives
  • Cannot be used for private employment, business, or tourism purposes

Application Process

1

Verify official status: Confirm government position

2

Submit application: Present official documentation

3

Visa issuance: Visa issued through official channels

Application Forms

Government Official Visa Application—

Verified Claims (3)

Last verified Jun 30, 2026
Included Nationalities
null
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Processing Estimates
{"minDays":5,"maxDays":7}
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Processing Time
5–7 working days
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Official Information

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