South Korea Travel Guide

South Korea — Passport and Visa Information

Browse the South Korea Photo Gallery

Passports

Country	Passport Required	Visa Required	Return Ticket Required
Other EU	Yes	No	No
USA	Yes	No	No
Canadian	Yes	No	No
Australian	Yes	No	No
British	Yes	No	No

Passport valid for a minimum of three months required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.

Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of Australia, USA and EU countries for stays of up to 90 days, except nationals of Italy and Portugal who may stay for up to 60 days, and nationals of Cyprus who may stay for up to 30 days;
(b) nationals of Canada for stays of up to six months;
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Important Addresses).

Types of Visa and Cost

Single-entry (up to 90 days): US$30. Single-entry (more than 90 days): US$50. Multiple-entry: US$80. For US citizens, multiple entry visa fee is US$45. The same fees apply for both business and tourist visas. Nationals of Italy, Spain, Sweden and UK can obtain a visa valid for up to six months free of charge.

A new visa for medical tourists has been introduced. Visitors who require short-term treatment may apply for a 90-day visa; visitors who need long-term care will be able to apply for a one-year visa.

Validity

30, 60 or 90 days.

Applications to:

Consulate (or consular section at embassy).

Working Days Required

Five.

Travel Warnings

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK - North Korea) reported carrying out a nuclear test on 9 October 2006. There is no evidence of any danger to those living in the ROK (South Korea) as a result of this test. Further developments in the North Korea could potentially give rise to regional tension.

It is recommended that British nationals coming to the ROK for longer than two weeks should register with the consular Section of the British embassy.

It is not possible to enter North Korea from South Korea.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organizations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel

Health Care

High quality medical care is available in Seoul, Pusan and Daegu, but may be difficult to locate in rural areas. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended, as are the international clinics at hospitals like Seoul’s Severance Hospital, Asan Medical Center or Samsung Medical Center. Almost all hospitals require payment and registration prior to treatment. Most nurses and receptionists do not speak English.