New Nationwide South Korea Mail-In Visa Application

For many Filipinos, a trip to South Korea is a dream inspired by K-dramas, K-pop, and the vibrant Hallyu culture. But before you start planning your itinerary, there's one essential step: securing a Korean visa. The process has become much more convenient thanks to the Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC), which now offers a nationwide South Korea mail-in visa application service.

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What we know about the South Korea mail-in visa application

Previously, Filipino travellers seeking a South Korean tourist visa (C-3-9) were required to physically submit their documents at the KVAC or through designated travel agencies. While mail-in applications were available, they were limited to residents of Palawan and Mindanao. However, as of August 2024, the KVAC has expanded this service to applicants across the entire Philippines.

The mail-in service allows applicants to submit their visa forms through W-Express, a courier service partnered with KVAC. This is exclusively for C-3-9 Tourist Visa applications, which cover stays in South Korea not exceeding 59 days. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete the Requirements: Start by preparing all necessary forms and supporting documents as specified on the KVAC website. Ensure that you have a valid government ID ready.

2. Visit W-Express: Head to your nearest W-Express branch to submit your documents. The staff will check that everything is in order before accepting your payment. The total cost for this service is ₱1,900, which includes ₱1,000 for courier services and ₱900 for the visa fee.

3. Confirmation: Once your documents are accepted, you’ll receive an email from W-Express and an SMS from KVAC confirming your submission.

Processing time and delivery

Your application will reach the Korean Visa Application Center within three working days after submission at W-Express. Once received, the processing time for the visa is up to 10 working days. If any documents are missing, the KVAC will pause processing and contact you via phone. You must then submit the missing documents to a W-Express branch within seven working days. No additional fees will be charged for this.

After your visa has been processed, W-Express will deliver your passport and visa back to you within three working days. This means that from submission to receiving your visa, the entire process can take as little as 16 working days.

It’s essential to note that this mail-in service is only available for Filipino nationals applying for a C-3-9 Tourist Visa. Non-Filipino nationals and applicants for other types of visas must still submit their applications in person at the KVAC or through designated travel agencies.

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With this new service, applying for a South Korean tourist visa has never been easier. Whether you’re planning to visit Seoul’s bustling streets or explore the tranquil countryside, this streamlined process brings you one step closer to your South Korean adventure.

Featured image credit: Noppasin Wongchum via Canva Pro