South Korea•AsiaA-1 / A-2 — Diplomatic and Official Visa (A-1 / A-2)
At a Glance
5–7 days
Free
Duration of diplomatic assignment
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
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 type | Tied 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
Verify official status
Confirm government position
Submit application
Present official documentation
Visa issuance
Visa issued through official channels
Application Forms
| Government Official Visa Application | — |
Related visas
More visas in South Korea
- Official Visa (A-2)
Diplomatic
- Agreement Visa (A-3)
Diplomatic
- Visa Exemption (B-1)
Business
Diplomatic visas in other countries
- Official (公用)
Japan
- Immigration Exemption Order
Singapore
- Special Visa (Category B)
Georgia
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