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C-3 — Short-Term Visitor Visa (C-3)
VisasSouth KoreaC-3 — Short-Term Visitor Visa (C-3)
South KoreaSouth Korea•Asia
Open

C-3 — Short-Term Visitor Visa (C-3)

Tourist

At a Glance

Processing Time

1–3 weeks

Estimated Cost

₩60,000 KRW

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

3 months

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

No dependents

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.

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant3 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

Application Process

1

Prepare documents: Gather all required documentation

2

Apply at embassy: Submit at Korean embassy or consulate

3

Visa processing: 10-20 working days (no express service)

4

Collect passport: Visa affixed to passport

Application Forms

Visa Application Form (No. 17)Fill online

Verified Claims (5)

Last verified Jun 30, 2026
Forms
Visa Application Form (No. 17)
visa.go.kr
Official Info
https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?LLANG=EN&MENU_ID=10105
visa.go.kr
Processing Estimates
{"minDays":10,"maxDays":20}
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Processing Time
Approximately 10–20 working days depending on the Korean diplomatic mission. Some missions (e.g., Si…
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Spouse Can Work
no
overseas.mofa.go.kr
Official Information

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