South Korea visa fees vary significantly by nationality and visa type, ranging from free for some (like Filipinos for short stays) to $40-$130+ USD for others (like UK citizens for single entry) for short visits, with longer-term or multiple-entry visas costing more, plus potential service fees, though waivers exist for some groups (India, China, etc.) until mid-2026. You'll also need to pay the K-ETA fee (~$7-8 USD) if required for visa-free entry.
Korea visa application fees
90 days or less single-entry visa - 40 USD. 91 days or longer single-entry visa - 60 USD. Double-entry visa usable up to 2 times - 70 USD. Multiple-entry visa - 90 USD.
South Korea - Visa Not Required for Australian Passport Holders. Australian passport holders are no longer required to apply for Korea's Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) when travelling to South Korea between until 31 December 2026.
The K-ETA fee is 10,000 KRW (approximately USD $7~8, Online Payment Fee is Charged Separately) and is non-refundable, even if the application is denied. 4. K-ETA approval will be refused or canceled if false or inaccurate information is submitted on the application.
A visa is not required for stays 90 days or less for business or tourism. The Korean Electronic Travel Authorization(opens in a new tab) (K-ETA) exemption for U.S. passport holders was extended through December 31, 2026. Starting January 1, 2027, you will need a K-ETA before traveling to South Korea.
South Korea's 52-hour work rule caps most employees' weekly working hours at 52, consisting of 40 standard hours plus 12 allowed overtime hours, aiming to reduce overwork, improve work-life balance, and boost productivity by ending excessively long workweeks previously common in the country. Implemented in phases for different company sizes, this law applies to a seven-day week, including weekends, and was a major revision to the Labor Standards Act, phasing in from 2018 to 2021 for most businesses.
Once the Embassy starts to review your application, it may take up to 3 weeks to receive your visa result. During peak seasons, processing times may extend. To ensure timely visa processing, we strongly recommend planning ahead and submitting your application well in advance(max.
South Korea: Australians may require a K-ETA from 2026
Originally set to expire on 31 December 2024, this exemption was extended through to the end of 2025, but it is unclear what 2026 will bring at this stage. Australians should anticipate the need to apply for a K-ETA from 1 January 2026.
The minimum bank balance for South Korea visa from India is INR 70,000 per person, maintained for the last six months for tourist visas in 2026. Some sources use INR 50,000 for three months, but INR 70,000 is the safe standard and suggested by most Consultants.
The "3 date rule" in Korean dating refers to the common practice of deciding whether to become an official couple after the third date, moving quickly from casual "talking" (sseom) to an exclusive relationship, a faster pace than many Western cultures where dating remains casual for longer. It's an unwritten guideline where the first dates assess compatibility, and by the third, couples often establish commitment, sometimes with "couple items" or frequent communication. While still influential, younger generations (Gen Z) are sometimes moving away from this rigid timeline.
Mandatory Arrival Card Requirement
All travellers to The Republic of Korea are required to apply for a mandatory Arrival Card within 3 days before arrival.
Yes, Australian passport holders need visas for some countries but have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many others, with around 184 destinations accessible without a pre-arranged visa, though new systems like the EU's ETIAS will soon require online authorization. Requirements vary greatly, with some nations needing eVisas (like Indonesia, Maldives) or visas on arrival (like Egypt, Jordan), while others like the Schengen Area (Europe) offer short visa-free stays but are introducing ETIAS. Always check the official embassy/consulate or Smartraveller for your specific destination and travel purpose well before you travel.
The E-Visa Center, which is taking full charge of online civil affairs and visa issuance services on a national scale, was established to provide expedited visa issuance services for international talent and foreign group tourists via online and to handle civil affairs in relation to immigration and sojourn matters for ...
If you want to travel around South Korea comfortably, you are required to use a visa. No need to worry, as the application process is relatively easy and free of charge.
This exemption, renewed late last year through December 31, 2025, allows eligible travelers to continue entering South Korea without applying for a K-ETA in advance, while still giving them the option to request one voluntarily to enjoy benefits such as being exempt from filling out an arrival card.
Applicant's Financial Requirements
There is no fixed financial eligibility requirement or minimum amount of money that a visitor must have to enter the UK on a Standard Visitor visa. However, you must be able to demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay without working or accessing public funds.
The best months to visit South Korea are Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and pleasant warmth, and Autumn (September-November) for vibrant foliage, clear skies, and comfortable hiking, with both seasons being peak times for comfortable weather. Choose Summer (June-August) for beach activities and festivals but expect heat/humidity/rain, or Winter (December-February) for budget travel, snow sports, and fewer crowds, though it's very cold.
Tourist Travel Requirements for a Korea - South Visa for Australian Citizens
The South Korean Government has announced that Australian passport holders will remain exempt from applying for a K-ETA until 31 December 2026. Visit the official K-ETA website for more information.
The cost of living in South Korea and the South Korea travel cost from India depend on factors such as travel season, trip duration, and personal preferences. Typically, a one-week trip costs between Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 2 lakh per person, covering flights, accommodation, and activities.