If you are a South Korean citizen planning to travel to Vietnam, it is important to know the visa requirements for your trip. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about getting Vietnam visa from South Korea.
1. Do South Korean Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam?
Yes, South Korean citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam. However, there are some exceptions for South Koreans who meet certain criteria:
- South Korean passport holders who enter Vietnam for a stay of up to 15 days are exempted from obtaining a visa.
- South Korean citizens who are spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens can apply for a visa exemption certificate.
2. Types of Vietnam Visas Available for South Korean Citizens
There are two types of visas that South Korean citizens can obtain for their trip to Vietnam:
a. E-visa
South Korean citizens can apply for an e-visa online through the Vietnamese government’s official website. An e-visa is valid for a single entry and allows a maximum stay of 30 days. The processing time for an e-visa is generally three working days.
b. Embassy Visa
South Korean citizens can also apply for a visa through the Vietnamese embassy in Seoul. This type of visa is suitable for those who plan to stay in Vietnam for longer periods or need multiple entries. Embassy visas have varying processing times depending on the type of visa and how quickly you require it.
3. How to Apply for a Vietnam Embassy Visa from South Korea
Here are the steps to follow when applying for a Vietnam embassy visa from South Korea:
- Check if you need a visa and determine which type of visa is suitable for your travel plans.
- Gather all the required documents and make sure they meet the embassy’s requirements.
- Submit your application to the Vietnamese embassy in Seoul by post or in person.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Wait for the embassy to process your application.
4. Required Documents for Applying for a Vietnam Embassy Visa
To apply for a Vietnam embassy visa from South Korea, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Vietnam.
- A completed visa application form.
- Two 4×6 cm passport photos taken within the past six months.
- Proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets or an itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations.
- A letter of invitation if you are traveling for business purposes.
5. How Long Does it Take to Get a Vietnam Embassy Visa?
The processing time for a Vietnam embassy visa varies depending on the type of visa and your circumstances. Here is a general estimate of how long it takes:
- Tourist visas: two to four working days
- Business visas: five to seven working days
- Transit visas: one to two working days
- Urgent visas: same-day or next-day processing (additional fees required)
6. Is It Easy to Obtain a Vietnam Visa from South Korea?
Obtaining a Vietnam visa from South Korea is generally straightforward, provided you have all the required documents and meet the eligibility criteria. The Vietnamese embassy in Seoul has clear guidelines on their website to help applicants prepare their applications correctly.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I Apply for a Vietnam Visa Upon Arrival?
No, South Korean citizens cannot apply for a visa upon arrival in Vietnam. You must obtain a visa before traveling to Vietnam.
Q2. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Phu Quoc Island?
South Korean citizens can visit Phu Quoc Island without a visa if they stay for up to 30 days.
Q3. Can I Extend My Vietnam Visa While in the Country?
Yes, it is possible to extend your visa while you are in Vietnam. You will need to contact the Vietnamese immigration authorities and follow their guidelines.
Q4. How Long Can I Stay in Vietnam with a Visa?
The maximum stay for a visa depends on the type of visa you have been granted. A typical visa allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days, but some visas can be extended for longer periods.
Q5. What if My Passport Expires Before My Vietnam Visa?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Vietnam. If your passport expires before your visa does, you will need to renew your passport and apply for a new visa.
Q6. Can I apply for a Vietnam visa online if I am a South Korean citizen?
Yes, South Korean citizens can apply for an e-visa online through the Vietnamese government’s official website.
Q7. What is the cost of getting a Vietnam embassy visa from South Korea?
The cost of a Vietnam embassy visa varies depending on the type of visa and how quickly you require it.
Q8. Do I need to provide proof of travel arrangements when applying for a Vietnam embassy visa?
Yes, you will need to provide proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets or an itinerary, when applying for a Vietnam embassy visa.
Q9. Is it possible to get a same-day Vietnam embassy visa in Seoul?
Yes, it is possible to get a same-day or next-day Vietnam embassy visa in Seoul, but additional fees are required.
Q10. Can I visit Vietnam without a visa if I hold a diplomatic or official passport from South Korea?
Yes, South Korean citizens who hold diplomatic or official passports may be exempted from obtaining a visa for their trip to Vietnam.
Conclusion
If you are a South Korean citizen planning to travel to Vietnam, you will need a visa to enter the country. The process of obtaining a visa is relatively straightforward, and there are two types of visas available for South Koreans: e-visas and embassy visas. By following the guidelines provided by the Vietnamese embassy in Seoul and ensuring you have all the required documents, you can obtain a visa quickly and easilyto make your travel plans a reality. Remember to check the visa requirements before you book your trip, so you have plenty of time to prepare.
