Traveling to South Korea sometime soon?
Thinking of making a trip to South Korea? Fret not, we've just gathered an updated list of requirements for all Filipino passport holders. KVAC or the Korea Visa Application Center has made it quick and easy to gather documents and to apply for a tourist visa. Scroll below for all the details!
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Gather All Your Requirements
General Requirements for Most Categories (Employed Individuals, Businessmen, Retirees, etc.):
✅ Application Form (Form no. 17 for employed)
✅ 1 piece of Passport size colored picture
✅ Original Passport (valid for 6 months for most, original only for employed)
✅ Photocopy of Passport Bio-page (page 2)
✅ Original and Photocopy of valid visa(s) and arrival stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years (If applicable)
✅ Copy of PRC Card or IBP Card (If applicable)
✅ Original Personal Bank Certificate (must include account name, number, type, current balance, opening date, and 6 months ADB)
✅ Photocopy of ITR (Income Tax Return) or Form 2316
✅ Data Privacy Consent Form (Required for all except Employed Individuals)
Specific Document Requirements:
- Employed Individuals: Original Certificate of Employment (must include position, date hired, compensation, office address, HR landline number, and HR email)
- Businessmen: Photocopy of Business Registration from SEC or DTI and Business Permit or Mayor's Permit
- Students: Data Privacy Consent Form, Application Form, School Certificate (Original), Copy of School ID, Original PSA Birth Certificate, and Parents' documents (including PSA Marriage Certificate and required employment/business/financial documents)
- Housewives: Data Privacy Consent Form, Application Form, Original PSA Marriage Certificate, and additional documents based on husband's employment status (Employment Certificate or Business Registration/Permit/ITR) and financial documents (Personal or Husband's)
- Religious Workers: Data Privacy Consent Form, Application Form, Certification from Church (Original), Copy of Church SEC in the Philippines, and documents based on employment status (Employed or Businessman) or refer to Student/Housewife requirements
- Retirees: Data Privacy Consent Form, Application Form, Copy of Senior Citizen's ID
Choose Your Submission Method
The Korean Embassy does not accept walk-ins for regular tourist visas. You have two main options:
Designated Travel Agencies: Local travel agencies can process your application for you for a processing and convenience fee. Costs would range from PHP500-2,000.
Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC): Located in BGC, Taguig. You can submit individually here, but note that as of late 2025/early 2026, walk-in slots are limited and often require waiting in line unless you book the Premium Lounge service.
Status Check
You can track your application on the Korea Visa Portal or through your local travel agency.
By following these steps and ensuring all your documents are complete and up-to-date, you'll be well on your way to exploring the wonders of South Korea!
