Complete Guide to South Korea Visas for Vietnamese Citizens in 2026
Quick Introduction to South Korea's Visa System
South Korea's visa system is classified in detail according to the purpose of entry, using codes such as C-3, B-2, H-1, and others. Understanding the correct visa code will help you avoid confusion during the application process. The information below is updated for 2026; however, you should always verify the details on the official website of the South Korean Embassy or Consulate General in Vietnam before submitting your application.
Tourism & Family Visit Visas
1. Individual Tourism Visa (C-3-9) – Most Popular
This is the choice of most independent tourists.
Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, and leisure.
Maximum Stay: Up to 90 days.
Key Documents to Prepare:
- Detailed travel itinerary (hotel bookings, round-trip flight tickets)
- Financial proof (bank statements, savings accounts)
- Employment/binding proof in Vietnam (employment contract, business license)
Pro Tip: A logical, detailed travel itinerary is a major factor in creating a positive impression. Demonstrate that you are a genuine tourist with a clear plan and sufficient financial capacity.
2. Jeju Island Visa Exemption (B-2-2) – Special Point to Note
This is a special policy for the famous tourism island.
Application Conditions: You must enter directly to Jeju Island via a seaport or Jeju International Airport.
Benefits: Visa-free entry with a maximum stay of 30 days within Jeju Island only.
Prerequisite: Your Vietnamese passport must be on the list of countries eligible for exemption (verify this carefully before your trip).
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you want to leave Jeju and enter mainland South Korea (for example, to visit Busan or Seoul), you must have an appropriate visa (such as C-3-9) obtained beforehand. Otherwise, you may be denied entry or face immigration law violations.
3. Group Tourism Visa (C-3-2)
This is suitable for first-time visitors to Korea, families with small children, or elderly travelers.
Conditions: Travel with a tour organized by an authorized travel company. The travel company will sponsor and handle the procedures on your behalf.
Advantages: Simpler documentation and higher approval rates due to company sponsorship.[1][2]
Recent Development: South Korea has extended the free visa processing fee for group tourism visas (C-3-2) by six more months, until the end of June 2026, for tourists from six countries including Vietnam, China, India, Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia. Previously, this exemption was set to expire on December 31, 2025.[1][2][3]
Business & Commercial Visas
4. Short-Term Commercial Visa (C-3-4)
Intended for businesspeople and employees with short-term work assignments.
Purpose: Meetings, contract signing, and market surveys.
Important Documents: Invitation letter from a South Korean partner (notarized), business licenses from both parties, and detailed work schedule.
5. Sponsored Business Visitor Visa (C-3-6)
Special Condition: You must be invited by a South Korean company or organization designated by South Korea's Ministry of Justice as a "preferred company."
Advantages: Simpler and faster document processing thanks to the credibility of the sponsoring organization.
Special Visas & General Reminders
6. Working Holiday Visa (H-1)
An opportunity for young Vietnamese (ages 18–30) to experience Korean culture while working short-term in South Korea. The program has annual quotas and requires English or Korean language skills. You should monitor recruitment announcements very carefully.
General Notes When Applying for South Korea Visas in 2026
Honesty is #1: All information in your application must be accurate and consistent. Even small errors can lead to rejection.[2]
Strong proof of ties to Vietnam: Stable employment, assets, family, and other evidence are the most convincing proof that you will return.[2]
Submit early: Apply at least 1 to 1.5 months before your planned departure date.[2]
Good travel history is a bonus: If you have previously visited Japan, Europe, or the United States, submit your old passport and those visas. Applicants with a good South Korea entry history (for example, 4 visits in 2 years) may qualify for a simplified process.[2]
Visa Fee Information: The current C-3-2 visa processing fee is 18,000 won (approximately 330,000 Vietnamese dong).[1][2] For individual tourism visas processed through visa application centers (KVAC), additional fees apply: a service fee of 390,000 Vietnamese dong per application, plus consular fees of 20–30 USD for single-entry and 80 USD for multiple-entry visas.[2][8]
Choosing the correct South Korea visa type from the start will determine much of your application's success. Whether you plan to explore Jeju, travel independently, or conduct business, start by thoroughly researching the requirements and preparing a complete, honest application. Best of luck receiving your visa and having a wonderful trip!
