Thinking of flying to South Korea for a short trip? Maybe you want to visit friends, do some sightseeing, or have a quick meeting? Good news — going to South Korea is pretty easy for Filipinos right now!
If you have a Philippine passport, you can visit South Korea without a visa for a short stay. That means less paperwork and more time to plan your trip. But before you book that ticket, check how long you can stay and what papers you need to bring.
This simple guide keeps it easy — no hard words, no long lists. Just the basics so you can enjoy your trip to South Korea without the stress.
Do Filipinos need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. If you have a Philippine passport, you need a visa before you can go to South Korea.
It’s pretty easy to apply, but you’ll need a few things ready. Make sure your passport is valid, and have your flight and hotel details. If you’re staying with a friend or family, they might also need to give you an invitation letter.
Once you have your visa, you’re all set to enjoy your trip. Just remember to check the dates so you know how long you can stay.
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Visa Tips if You’re Staying in South Korea for More Than 30 Days
Planning to stay in South Korea for a while? If you’ll be there for more than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for a visa before you go. Going without a visa is only for short visits.
Here are some visas you can look into:
👉 Tourist or Visiting Visa – If you plan to travel, see friends, or stay with family for more than a month.
👉 Work Visa – If you already have a job waiting for you in South Korea.
👉 Student Visa – If you’ll be going to school or university.
👉 Dependent Visa – If you’ll live with a family member who works or stays there.
Before you apply, make sure your passport is ready and you have all the papers you need. It’s also smart to check the latest rules at the South Korean Embassy so you don’t miss anything.
Which Countries Can Visit South Korea Without a Visa?
If you’re going to South Korea, it’s good to know if you need a visa or not. Many travelers can visit without one for a short trip. Here’s a quick list to help you plan.
Country/Region | Visa-Free Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
USA | 90 days | Bring a valid passport |
Canada | 180 days | Have a return or onward ticket |
UK | 90 days | Passport must be valid during your trip |
Australia | 90 days | Easy entry for short visits |
New Zealand | 90 days | Bring proof of onward travel |
Japan | 90 days | No visa needed for tourism or business |
Singapore | 90 days | Smooth and simple entry |
Malaysia | 90 days | Passport must be valid on arrival |
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South Korea Visa Types
Not sure which visa you need for your trip to South Korea? Don’t worry — here’s a simple guide to help you pick the right one, whether you’re going to visit, work, study, or stay with family.
Visa Type | Who It’s For | Stay Length | What to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
Tourist/Visitor Visa | For people visiting South Korea, seeing friends or family | Usually up to 90 days | Good for travel, seeing family, or short business trips |
Work Visa | For people who have a job in South Korea | Based on your job contract | You’ll need papers from your employer in South Korea |
Student Visa | For those going to school or university | Length of your program | Make sure you have your school’s acceptance letter |
Dependent Visa | For spouses or kids of someone working or studying in South Korea | Same as the sponsor’s visa | Bring proof like a marriage or birth certificate |
Business/Investor Visa | For those starting a business or investing | Varies | Have a clear business plan and investment proof |
Training Visa | For technical training or internships | Usually short-term | Good for job training programs |
Working Holiday Visa | For young people (18–30) from countries that qualify | Up to 1 year | Lets you work and travel at the same time |
Resident Visa | For long-term stays (work, school, family, etc.) | Long-term | Applied for after getting the correct visa type |
South Korea Visa Requirements for Filipinos
Planning a trip to South Korea for more than 30 days or need a special visa? Before you apply, make sure you have all your papers ready. These will show who you are, why you’re going, and that you can support yourself during the trip. Being prepared will make the process quicker and easier!
Document | What It Is | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
Valid Philippine Passport | Your main ID for travel | To prove who you are and your nationality |
Completed Visa Application Form | Filled-out form for a South Korea visa | Gives details of your trip and why you’re going |
Recent Passport Photo | A clear, recent ID picture | Used for your visa and official records |
Proof of Financial Support | Bank statement, payslip, or income proof | To show you can pay for your trip and stay |
Flight Ticket (Return or Onward) | Travel booking back home or to the next stop | Shows you plan to leave South Korea before your visa ends |
Accommodation Info | Hotel booking or address where you’ll stay | Lets them know where you’ll stay during your trip |
Extra Documents Based on Visa Type
Some visas may need extra papers. Here’s a quick look at what you might need, depending on the visa you’re applying for:
Visa Type | Extra Papers You May Need |
|---|---|
Tourist/Visitor Visa | Travel plan, hotel booking, proof you have enough money |
Work Visa | Job offer, contract from your employer in South Korea, papers from POEA/DMW |
Student Visa | Acceptance letter from your school, proof you can pay for tuition and living expenses |
Dependent Visa | Marriage or birth certificate, copy of your family member’s visa |
Training Visa | Invitation letter from the company or school where you’ll train |
Business or Investor Visa | Business plan, proof of funds, company papers (if you have them) |
How to Apply for a South Korea Visa (For Filipinos)
Planning a trip to South Korea? Whether it’s for travel, work, study, or to visit someone, here’s a simple guide to help you apply for a visa without stress:
1. Know if You Need a Visa
If you have a Philippine passport, you need a visa to go to South Korea, even for a short trip.
2. Get Your Documents Ready
Before you apply, make sure you have these papers ready:
✅ Valid Philippine Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
✅ Completed Visa Application Form (download and fill it out)
✅ Recent Passport Photo (white background, taken in the last 6 months)
✅ Proof of Financial Support (bank statements, payslips, or an affidavit of support)
✅ Flight Booking (return or onward ticket)
✅ Accommodation Details (hotel booking or an invitation from a friend/family)
✅ Other papers depending on your visa (e.g. school acceptance, job contract, invitation letter)
3. Submit Your Application
You need to apply through an accredited travel agency or a visa center — South Korea does not accept walk-ins at the embassy. Bring your papers, pay the visa fee, and keep the receipt.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing usually takes about 5 to 7 working days, but it can take longer if it’s busy. It’s better to apply early so you won’t feel rushed.
5. Get Your Visa
Once your visa is ready, the agency or visa center will contact you. Pick up your passport and check the visa details — make sure your name, dates, and other info are all correct before you travel!
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South Korea Visa Fees for Filipinos
If you’re applying for a South Korea visa, it’s good to know the fees so you can plan your budget. Payment is usually made when you submit your papers at the travel agency or visa center. Don’t forget to keep the receipt just in case you need it later.
💰 Visa Fees
Visa Type | Fee (PHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Tourist / Visitor Visa | ₱1,000 – ₱1,500 | Short trip for travel or to visit friends/family |
Single-Entry Visa | ₱1,000 – ₱1,500 | Good for one-time entry |
Multiple-Entry Visa | ₱2,000 – ₱2,500 | Lets you visit South Korea several times |
Student Visa | ₱1,000 – ₱1,500 | For studying in South Korea |
Work Visa | ₱1,000 – ₱1,500 | For people who will work in South Korea |
Dependent Visa | ₱1,000 – ₱1,500 | For spouses or kids of people working/studying in South Korea |
💡 Tips for Payment
✅ When to Pay: Usually when you submit your papers to the travel agency or visa center
✅ How to Pay: Cash is easiest — check if they accept GCash or other options
✅ Keep the Receipt: Save your receipt — you might need it if you have questions later
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Safe Travels and See You in South Korea! ✈️
Whether you’re going to South Korea for a holiday, to study, for work, or to visit friends and family, we hope this guide has helped you plan. Get your papers ready, follow the steps, and you’ll have a smooth trip.
Before you go, remember to:
✅ Book your flight to South Korea early to get a good price.
✅ Reserve your hotel or place to stay in advance so you can relax.
✅ Get a South Korea SIM card or pocket WiFi at the airport — it’s very helpful for maps, messaging, and looking up places while you travel.
South Korea has tasty food, kind people, and so many great spots to explore. Pack your bags, bring a smile, and get ready for a fun trip.
Have a safe flight and enjoy South Korea!