Applying for South Korean visa? Here's how Filipinos can book an appointment online starting Sept. 14
It looks like Filipinos are all ready to spend their vacation in South Korea but, don’t pack your bags yet! The Korean Embassy released new guidelines regarding visa application.
On September 13, the Korean Embassy in the Philippines announced on social media its new online system, which allows applicants to book an appointment prior to visiting their office to submit their visa requirements.
The website https://consul.mofa.go.kr/en/main.do is set to launch at 2 p.m. on September 14, with the embassy no longer entertaining walk-in applicants in its office on September 15.
The Korean Embassy earlier announced that travelers can only file their visa applications through accredited travel agencies but with the upcoming online portal, even individual travelers can directly book their appointment on the website.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to book your visa appointment through the new online system:
1. Determine your visa type and the requirements
Check the visa type you need to visit South Korea here. The embassy currently offers 22 types of visas, including those for studying and short-term employment. If you are planning to visit the country as a short-term tourist, you would have to apply for the 9(a) or Temporary Visitor's Visa for foreign nationals.
The requirements for the Temporary Visitor's Visa include a properly filled-up application form, a copy of round-trip e-ticket and hotel booking, passport, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.
The Korean Embassy notes that apart from its upcoming application portal, you can also apply for a tourist visa through its accredited travel agencies which are listed in one of the downloadable documents here.
2. Schedule your appointment
Once you have completed your requirements, schedule your appointment at https://consul.mofa.go.kr/en/main.do. The system will be requesting your passport number, mobile number, and e-mail ad so make sure to keep them handy.
You will also be asked to choose the timeslot which best suits your visa application:
- 8:30 a.m. for accredited travel agencies and individual applicants for Filipinos spouses of Korean nationals or family visit
- 9:30 a.m. for individual tourism visa applicants
- 10:30 a.m. for agencies for POEA or seasonal workers and individual applicants for business-related purposes
3. Submit your requirements
Visit the embassy on the date and time of your appointment with all the required documents, including the following:
- Printed copy of your appointment confirmation
- Your duly filled out application form
- One valid ID and your passport
The embassy also notes that visa approval usually takes at least five working days after the requirements have been submitted. Travelers are then encouraged to only book their flight after their visa has been approved.