C-3 — Short-Term Visitor Visa (C-3)

Tourist

At a Glance

Processing Time

1–3 weeks

Estimated Cost

USD $130

Stay Duration

3 months

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Visitor pass for tourism, business, or family visits—up to 90 days, no work permitted.

The C-3 Short-Term Visitor Visa is South Korea's foundational tourism and visitor visa, issued by the Korean government for non-working stays up to 90 days. It welcomes tourists, family visitors, business travelers, and those attending conferences or cultural exchanges—anyone requiring formal entry without employment intent.

Valid for up to 90 days per entry and non-renewable, the C-3 is one of Korea's most accessible visitor options. Fees are US$40 for single-entry or US$90 for multiple-entry visas. Processing typically takes 10–20 working days, though some diplomatic missions process in as few as 4 days. Spouses may not work independently under this visa.

This visa is ideal for international tourists, family visitors, and business professionals seeking short-term access to South Korea without employment, residency, or long-term commitment.

Cost Breakdown

Single-entry visa (90 days or less)USD $40

Multiple-entry visaUSD $90

TotalUSD $130

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant

3 months

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Valid passport

Proof of accommodation

Return ticket

Proof of sufficient funds

No criminal record

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Passport photos

Visa application form

Proof of funds

Return ticket

Proof of accommodation

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Multiple entry options: single-entry (US$40) or multiple-entry (US$90) visas available
Extended stay: up to 90 days per entry without employment restrictions
Diverse purpose categories: tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences supported
No criminal record barriers: case-by-case review ensures fair evaluation
Clear 10–20 working day processing: transparent timelines across diplomatic missions
Straightforward requirements: standard documents (passport, funds, ticket, accommodation)
Visa-free visitors can upgrade: extends stays beyond visa-free exemption periods

Worth Knowing

Processing varies by mission: some consulates (Singapore) process in 4 days; others (Finland) take 3–4 weeks
No express/urgent services: limited options to expedite applications beyond standard timeline
Spouse cannot work: accompanying family members prohibited from employment during stay
Strictly non-work visa: employment or profit-generating activities completely prohibited