3 Korean Visas You Don't Need to Apply For - Just Meet the Requirements (2026)
Planning a trip to Korea but dreading the complicated visa process? Good news: not every visa requires advance application at the embassy. This article breaks down three special Korean visas that Vietnamese travelers can use right away—just meet the conditions and you're good to go. We'll also cover other popular visas that do need prior approval.
Clear Difference: "Visa-Free" vs. "Visa Required"
First, let's get the basics straight:
Visa-Free (Visa Exemption/Visa Waiver): No need to submit paperwork at Korean diplomatic offices beforehand. Instead, you'll get entry permission right at the border if you meet the key requirements.
Visa Required: You must submit documents, wait for approval, and get a visa sticker in your passport before boarding your flight.
Here are the three visa-free options available to Vietnamese citizens.
Group 1: 3 Special "Visas" - No Advance Application Needed
- B-1: Visa Exemption for Diplomatic/Official Passports
Who qualifies: Vietnamese citizens holding diplomatic or official passports.
Conditions: Per bilateral agreements, visa-free entry for official business.
Stay duration: Up to 90 days, or until the end of your assignment.
Key note: Strictly no paid work or business activities allowed. Regular passport holders don't qualify. - B-2-2: Visa-Free Entry to Jeju Island
Golden rule: You must fly directly into Jeju International Airport (CJU) or Jeju seaport. Note: Direct from a third country to Jeju only—layovers in Seoul or Busan might disqualify you.
Benefits: Get your stay permit on arrival, up to 30 days.
Allowed area: Stay and move only within Jeju Island.
Warning: Planning to head to mainland Korea (Seoul, Busan, etc.)? You must have a pre-approved visa like C-3-9. No visa means you can't leave the island. - B-2-1: Transit Visa-Free (Currently Suspended - Double-Check)
Who qualifies: Travelers transiting through Korea to the US, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
Previous conditions: Valid visa (or residence permit) for those countries plus onward/return ticket.
2026 status: Suspended since February 4, 2020, due to the pandemic. No official resumption announced yet. Always verify the latest rules before flying—don't assume it's back on.
Group 2: Popular Visas - Must Apply in Advance
Most common trip purposes for Vietnamese travelers fall here. Submit your application and get approved first.
- Individual Tourist Visa (C-3-9) - Most Popular
For solo travelers. Needs proof of finances, job, and detailed itinerary. - Short-Term Business Visa (C-3-4)
For business meetings or contract signing. Requires an invitation letter from a Korean company. - Working Holiday Visa (H-1)
Great for 18-30-year-olds. Limited quota—apply through the selection process.
Pro Tips & Real-World Advice
- Always Check Official Sources: Visa-free policies (especially B-2-1 and B-2-2) can change. Visit the Korean Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City websites.
- For Jeju (B-2-2): Layovers in Seoul/Incheon before Jeju? No visa-free perk—you've already entered Korea. Only direct international flights (like from Vietnam straight to Jeju) count.
- Prep Thoroughly for Advance Visas: Whether tourism or business, a complete, honest application with strong ties to Vietnam is your ticket to approval.
Understanding these Korean visa types puts you in full control of your travel plans. If you qualify for visa-free entry, you've saved tons of time and hassle. Otherwise, start building that solid visa application today!
