Tourist visa to Korea for Pinoys

UPDATE: You might want to read this simpler entry for the REQUIREMENTS IN APPLYING FOR A TOURIST VISA (C-3) TO KOREA.
If you’re a Filipino and you want to go to Korea, the first thing that you must do is to acquire a visa… and it isn’t easy!
More than a decade ago, visas are not required for Pinoys. They can come and go as much as they wanted but things changed in 1994 when the Philippine government requested to the Korean government to require visas for Filipinos travelling to their country. That’s what I learned from watching “Magandang Gabi Bayan” three or four years ago.
Let me talk about the individual tourist visa. I had applied for a tourist visa almost three years ago but I was turned down for some reason. I wasn’t disheartened but my hubby (then fiance) was… I remember reading an article where DOLE secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas said that it’s harder to get a Korean tourist visa than to get a US visa. It’s probably true…
Unlike a US visa application, there is no interview conducted when applying for a Korean tourist visa. They also don’t require additional documents like land titles or car registration, and the likes. What you will need to provide them are… (1) bank certificate stating your savings, (2) certificate of employment showing your salary and position, (3) latest ITR (income tax return), (4) your passport and a copy, plus the (5) visa application form and (6) 2×2 pictures and if you have been invited, (7) a notarized invitation letter.
You have to go to the embassy really early! They open at 9AM but you have to line up outside before they let you in. Where do you have to go? The Korean Embassy is located at Pacific Star Building at the corners of Gil Puyat Ave. and Makati Ave. Right in front of a gas station, you can’t miss it!
When I applied for my tourist visa, I was there as early as 7AM and the line was already long… After arriving at the place, just follow the queue outside. At around 10 minutes before 9AM, the guard will let people in. You have to get a Visitor’s Pass by providing an ID. It doesn’t have to be a fancy ID, the one issued by the postal office will do. You’ll have to ride the elevator and get off on the 18th floor. There will be another line before entering the main office. The guard (who’s really friendly and nice) will ask you if it’s your first time to apply for a visa (in general) or not. If it is then he will give you a number for Window 3. If not, then you’ll be provided a number for Window 4. You’ll have to sit down and wait until it is your turn. The Korean lady on Window 3 is Ms. Park Ok (at least, the last time I was there)…
When your number is shown on the LCD display, you’ll have to go to Window 3 and present your documents. Like I told you, there’s no need for an interview. If your documents are complete, she’ll staple them and give you a claim stub for your passport. If you have submitted an incomplete set of documents, she’ll ask you to come back and complete your documents. If you’re planning to stay in Korea for more than 59 days, you’ll have to pay 1,500 pesos as visa fee. A stay of less than 59 days is free. Paying doesn’t guarantee an approval.
Application usually ends at 12PM. If your number is not called at that time, you’ll have to come back another day and fall in line, and get another number! Hehe…
Waiting time is usually 7 days. To claim your passport, you’ll have to come in the afternoon of the designated date in your claim stub. Again, you’ll have to queue outside and wait for the embassy to open. I really hate waiting because it makes me all nervous and excited!
If you get a visa, congratulations! If not, then try again later… after 6 months!
My mother applied for a tourist visa two weeks ago and got hers last Tuesday. She’s been here last year for our wedding and it just took her three days to get her visa. We sent her a notarized invitation last year but not for this year. She has a US resident visa so that probably helped her. Anyway, she’s planning to come here on the 7th of August via Asiana Airlines (whose unionized pilots are currently on strike) from the Clark International Airport. The airport is a 15-minute drive from our residence in Angeles City (we live about 200 meters from the gates of Clark).

1,662 comments

  1. i am a filipino, first time to go to south korea. my two-way airfare will be sponsored by a friend. i am travelling as a tourist but will also witness the conduct of business that my friend is engaged to in korea. i learned from this site that i need a notarized invitation letter. can you send me a sample? date of entry will be sept 26, 2006. please help.

  2. If you have a US or Japanese visa then a copy of one of those can help- it will do as a substitute of one of the required documents and will also (supposedly) speed up processing.

  3. hi, i’m a Filipino and i’m looking for a possibility of working in Korea as an English teacher… if you know any english academy looking for a part time/full time filipino teacher …i would appreciate if you could notify me…thank you..It’s my first time to view your website..and it’s helpful..

    1. hi, im a filipina and had a bf in the US ARMY now stationed in south korea he wants me to visit him there ive been in korea before but i overstayed there,pls help me what to do in order for me to see him..thank you

  4. Hi! Thanks for the very useful info. I’d appreciate it a lot if you could answer some questions for me. Should the invitation be notarized in Korea or here in the Philippines? I’m scheduled to go on the 11th of Sept. Your quickest reply is most appreciated. Thank you so much.

  5. hi erwin! the invitation should come from your korean host… he can get it from a lawyer… it’s called “cho-cheong-chang” in korean…
    if you haven’t been outside the country, it would be quite difficult to get a visa so all the necessary documents should be fulfilled…
    but if you have been to a country where you need a visa to visit (e.g., japan, US, etc.) then it’s easier to get a korean visa…
    good luck!

  6. hi im a filipino whose married in a us army and i wanna invite my sister just to visit korea what documents that she need and what documents i have to give her and did she need itr but she don’t have a job can u pls help me

  7. hi..i have a us military bf stationed in korea..and he wants me to visit him there nxt month…and he want me to stay there till december..coz when on january…we plan to get married here in philippines..what are the documents needed.. my bf was the one who gonna take the risk for my expenses.. help me pls..since i really scheduled my trip goin there next month..its my first time of my trip..

  8. hi, im working before in korea im entertainer then im done with my contract can i visit a again ther in korea ? i want to visit all my friends there.. tell me if its hard for me to come back there again..pls, tell me what i need to do? ASAP…

  9. hi,
    i have a u.s military boyfriend station in korea he wants me to visit him in korea & we want to get married in korea. what we need to do? can you please help me…and please can you give me sample of invitation letter

  10. hi,
    i have a u.s military boyfriend station in korea he wants me to visit him in korea & we want to get married in korea. what we need to do? can you please help me…and please can you give me sample of invitation letter

  11. i have a u.s military boyfriend station in korea he wants me to visit him in korea & we want to get married in korea. what we need to do? can you please help me…and please can you give me sample of invitation letter..what kind of visa i need to get?but i think were planning to get a tourist visa.what is the requirements? thank you

  12. hi,i have a sister in japan,and im staying here in S.korea,with my american husband,i just wanna ask if there’s a possible that we can go visit my sister in japan? and are we allow to aply the tourist visa for japan from here in korea? what do think they need the requirements from us? which is my husband is american? please i need your advice..thanks for your kind consideration.

  13. hi,
    what is the posible reason why lots of filipino has been interogate in korean immigration though they already got korean visa thats been aproved by the korean embassy here in the.
    in my case the name of the person who processed my papers has been maked to my korean visa.
    is it necessary to bring her along with me?
    what if she cannot travel for some reason? ex.illness,
    my entry will be on nov.22 please i need urgent advise.
    PLEASE REPLY TO MY EMAIL ADD.
    THANKS!

  14. Hi! I’m just curious…how much in the min. savings in one’s account for him to go to Korea as a tourist? I’m planning to go there and visit my students. please get back to me…thanks.

  15. Hello,I have a us bf there in korea his a English Teacher,and he want me to visit him
    but I don’t know what kind of document do I need pls.help me.and let me know what do I need so that I can preapare it asap.Thanks and have a good day……

  16. have a u.s military boyfriend station in korea he wants me to visit him in korea & we want to get married in korea. what we need to do? can you please help me…and please can you give me sample of invitation letter..what kind of visa i need to get?but i think were planning to get a tourist visa.what is the requirements? thank you..pls. help us..

  17. i have a u.s military boyfriend station in korea he wants me to visit him in korea & we want to get married in korea. what we need to do? can you please help me…and please can you give me sample of invitation letter..what kind of visa i need to get?but i think were planning to get a tourist visa.what is the requirements? thank you..pls. help us..
    kindly please reply in my email address:
    davidrence03@yahoo.com

  18. ^^ hi rence! i think i sent you an email before but it bounced back… if your boyfriend works at the US bases, they have a legal office wherein he can ask about the necessary papers you need to get married in korea…

  19. hi! I’m a Filipina, i just want to ask if i do need a visa if i will stay in korea for only 15 days. Actually i already applied for a korean visa but for no reason i got denied. I completed all the requirements they needed even an invitation letter from my fiancee who’s happened to be a US ARMY. He expected me to pent new yer him but too bad i got denied. He asked his friend who worked in an embassy for about 9 years and told him that i don’t need a visa. Actually most of his friend told that and i also saw in one of the website here thjat i really don’t need a visa. I’m really confused. Please help me. PLease! Hope you can help me asap. Thanks a lot!

  20. hi! I’m a Filipina, i just want to ask if i do need a visa if i will stay in korea for only 15 days. Actually i already applied for a korean visa but for no reason i got denied. I completed all the requirements they needed even an invitation letter from my fiancee who’s happened to be a US ARMY. He expected me to spent new yer him but too bad i got denied. I’m really confused. Please help me. PLease! Hope you can help me asap. Thanks a lot!

  21. I saw an article which stating that i don’t need a visa if i will stay in KOrea for only 15days. Most of my fiancee friend told him that i really don’t need it. Please help me ‘coz i’m really confused. Please. Thanks a lot!

  22. Hi Jaja! That is so unfortunate but Filipinos do need a visa to Korea. The first time I applied, I also got denied. My papers were complete and I also had an invitation from my husband.
    I think you’ll just have to try again after six months. (this is really unreasonable but that’s their rule) Or you can get married in the Philippines.
    I really don’t know how I can help you. If your boyfriend is working for the US Army, he could ask their legal department.

  23. hi dear!
    i just got my visa few hours ago and unfortunately it was denied..same with other filipinos my docs are complete and true and still it was denied.i have a first cousin whose working in navy in US do you think she can help me (legal dept per se)

  24. sir /maa”m,
    i have some problem,i have a france bf,he wants me to visit him in france,wht we need to do?and please can you give me a sample of invitation letter,wht kind of visa i need to get?my bf one who gonna takes the risk of my expenses,help me plss,this s my first time…thanks.

  25. dear sir/madaam,
    i have a bf a france bf,he wants me to visit him in france,what we need to do?and please can you give me a sample of invitation letter or sponsored letter?wht kind of visa i need to get?my bf is the one to pay all of my xpenses,help me pls…
    thanks,il wait your reply..

  26. hi, i am a filipino and i will go to korea just to take the nclex exam what are the requirements? thank you

  27. Sir/ Madam,
    I’m planning for visit to Korea this coming vacation…..i’m still a student.I just wanna ask,what documents do i need to get a tourist visa?Please help me.I will be waiting for your response Sir/ Madam.
    Thank you.

  28. Hello,
    I am planning to have a vacation/travel tour to S.Korea for 4 to 6 days only. And it’s my first time to go to other country, and i know it would be difficult for me to acquire a korean tourist visa. Is there any ways/things that i can do to make my application approve? please help me coz i really want to see the beauty of Korea.
    thanks,
    weng

  29. I’m planning for visit to Korea this coming vacation…..i’m still a student.I just wanna ask,what documents do i need to get a tourist visa?Please help me.I will be waiting for your response Sir/ Madam.

  30. Hi,I have a long time boyfriend from Busan,and now were planning to get married there.I’ve been to Korea before but it was about 8 years ago.I have been to Africa with him because he’s working there.Now we want to settle down.I’m not working .I’m just a plain housewife.What documents is needed for me to go to Korea?Please advice me.Thank you.

  31. Hi , I’m planning to visit Korea by July. Is it hard or difficult to get a tourist visa to Korea??? I also has an US Army Friend. What about the show money how much do I need to in my account??? Hope to hear fro you… Thanks!

  32. Hi!! I’m planning to go to korea for a vacation…maximum of 8 days stay…do i still need to get a visa? what are the requirements…send reply to my email…tnx!!:)

  33. hi shedz! oo… kahit 8 days o 3 days ka lang sa korea, kailangan natin kumuha ng visa… noong huli kong uwi, may nakasabay akong turistang pinoy papasok ng korea… 3 days lang sila pero kailangan pa rin ng visa… good luck ha!

  34. hi
    Anyone could help me? I am a 21 y.o filipina, i have a canadian bf who is working in korea as ESL for more than 4 years now. We both agreed that I will visit him on july 1st for it has the lowest flight rate in PAL as ived checked online. I have already theapplication form and also he provide me money to put on my bank account and also have sent me the invitation notarized by canadian embassy in korea and he will sent the rest of the documents needed by next week. This is not my first time to travel outside the country i have been to KL. MY concern now I wanted to ask you guys to please help me. AM i goin ot have a problem with this? coz what i ahve read on the comments ahead it scares me i am so excited to see my bf. please help me

  35. my bf will provide me the rountrip ticket. we plan to that i will visit him from july 1st to august 25th this year. What else do i need for the visa application? ?How many percent are my chance to get the visa approved?

  36. Hi!
    I have a Korean fiance and he’s here in the Philippines right now. We are planning to go to Korea and stay there for more than a year. (I’m also going to look for a job there). I would like to ask about the kind of visa that I need to get. Actually it’s more of a question of whether I can go to Korea and stay there for more than a year…Please help me. thanks

  37. hi jocelyn! the only visa you can get, if you’re not yet married is the C3 visa or the tourist visa… that’s good for a maximum of three months, so you’ll have to go back home every months… you cannot work legally with that visa, so don’t tell others that your visa is C3 :)… if you have a C3 visa and you’re able to find a job (as long as it’s not teaching english since it’s illegal for filipinos), you’ll have to go back to the philippines to process your papers for the appropriate visa… anyway, good luck to you… the surest way for you to come here is to get married… but don’t get married just so you can come here… get married because you’re ready… trust me, it isn’t easy being a daughter-in-law in korea…

    1. bechay,,just wanna ask,,,why is it illegal for filipinos to teach english there in korea???
      even though the academy will hire you is it still illegal???
      just wondering,,thanks please reply to my email add,,thanks

  38. hi!christian greetings!!!i have a us army bf and he wants me to visit him in his post since he cant travel till october to see me.i am about to go for the visa application but i have the fear that i might be denied by the korean embassy.i have reserve my two-way ticket july 14 and be back august 04 of this year.i’ve got his invitation and affidavit of support from him notarized by the Us government, bank statement for proof of sufficient fund, passport , ITR, but the certificate of employment i have with me is my contract in Singapore since im workingthere as a DH then i got a vaction of 2 months thats why we planned that i will be the one to go there in korea.Do you think this its good to show or not anymore?i’ve travelled already to other part of asia but not korea yet.pls say something about my situation if i have a chance to get a visa or not.hope you can help me or even just an advice.As soon as possible.

  39. hi lyn! i think you have sufficient documents… you won’t really know if you’ll get a visa unless you try… it takes about a week to get a C3 visa so better go there and apply… good luck!

  40. i wonder if they will question my certificate of employment in singapore while i apply here in philippines to go korea?but anyway u r right i wont know if i can get visa or not without trying my luck.just wish me luck for it.my bf is really expecting to see me this coming month and probably spend time with me even just a short while.im just croosing my fingers for it.we’ve been doing our best so hope the korean embassy wont just dump our effort.thanks for the advise.god bless…..

  41. i wonder if i can obtain a work visa even though i dont have any job arrangements yet? I plan to go there and then apply for a job when i arrive there. Would it be possible? Or should I get a tourist visa first and then apply for a job, and then apply for a work permit before my tourist visa expires? I really wanted to go to Korea. please give me some advice. Thanks!!!

  42. betchay please help…. my fiance wants me to get a visa to go to korea asap to tie the knot… he’s a korean guy living in busan… i wonder… would it be easier for HIM to get a fiance visa to live in the philippines?
    and does an invitation make a big difference? thanks…

  43. hi roselle! there is no fiance visa to korea… you’ll have to get a tourist visa to come here… the invitation might be helpful, it’s not expensive anyway… just ask him to go to any lawyer’s office to get the invitation… if you get denied, then ask him to go to the philippines to get married… if you get denied a visa, you’ll have to wait for six months before you can apply again…

  44. @ Eden >> if you come here as a tourist and find a job, you’ll have to go back to the philippines to get a working visa… korea is not like singapore where you get a working permit on a tourist visa… and one thing more, jobs here are limited for foreigners… most pinoys here work in factories… there are some professionals here too but they have prior working arrangements before coming here… as for teaching english, we’re not allowed to teach here (legally)…

  45. Hi, thanks for the info…much appreciated.
    Pls. allow me to ask question if you don’t mind…
    Actually, my brother was invited by his Korean students in PIA (Pines International Academy) to visit Korea, granted they (students) will pay for his air ticket (back & forth), as a token for his being “good teacher”.
    Should he follow the same procedure(s) as what you did? (i.e.: visa application, etc..) Your advise will be much appreciated.
    Thanks in advance.
    Laurence

  46. gud day…me and my boyfriend(japanese) decided to meet in korea to celebrate his birthday jaz for 3 days….is it possible?tnx

  47. i wanted to go to korea to find a good job…my former student is going to help me of going there but i have to have a notarized invitation letter from someone??who will it be??and how???how much money do i have to had in my savings if i’ll be a tourist there..?please help me….send some ways please…thanks…i’ll be waiting for a reply…

  48. @laurence — > there’s no other procedure to go to korea as a tourist… you have to show the embassy your complete documents as they would not accept your application if you don’t have all your documents… if you’re working, you’ll have to show them your ITR, bank certificate and employment certificate or if a student, then the parent’s ITR, bank certificate and school registration… a notarized invitation letter from the korean might be helpful but is optional… another option is to join a tour group…
    @jonalyn –> it’s possible to meet in korea and just stay for three days BUT you’ll still need to get a visa (if you’re a filipino)… why not just meet in singapore?
    @barbie –> your korean student can get the notarized invitation letter from ANY law office… it’s called 초청장 or “cho-cheong-jang”… i don’t know how much money you’ll need to show but the more the better… why not join a tourist group? anyway, let me just remind you that we, as filipinos, are not allowed to teach english in korea… it’s illegal though not impossible… it’s a risk and i don’t recommend it (or if you’re gonna do it, don’t tell others that you’re there on a tourist visa, specially pinoys)

  49. respected authoritian
    my self sandeep kumar. i am citizen of india. Presently i am student. i already got the invitation from my friend from south korea going for tourist visa. my quiery are under below – wht is bank financial statement. how much fund i would require to show for toursit visa from last six month.
    Thanking you
    With Regards
    sandeep kumar

  50. hello, I just wanna iinquire and I need an answer.. my sister got an invitation from his bf’s father for travel or tourist, we dont know what to do or to complete the requirements but we dont know the requirements to be submitted in korean embassy here in philippines..pls help us to know.. thank you very much

  51. Hello, a korean family is hiring me as a private home tutor (English) They will help me with my plane ticket and everything. It is my first time to go out of the country. What are the documents that I need to prepare? I don’t have bank accounts for the show money so do I have to make one? They want me to stay there for one year. Is it possible? What kind of visa should I get? I don’t know where to start and what to do.. Please help me.

  52. Hello, a korean family is hiring me as a private home tutor (English) they will help me with my plane ticket and everything. It is my first time to go out of the country. What are the documents that I need to prepare? I don’t have bank accounts for the show money so do I have to make one? They want me to stay there for one year. Is it possible? What kind of visa should I get? I don’t know where to start and what to do.. Please help me.

  53. @ roz – if you’ll be coming here as a tourist, you’ll need the papers mentioned in the post and previous comments… but as a tourist, you can only stay for up to 3 months then you’ll have to go back to the philippines and apply for a visa again… IT’S ILLEGAL to teach privately in Korea, you’ll need to get a special permit to do that… even native english speakers who come here as ESL teachers are not allowed to teach privately… if you’re a philippine passport holder, you can’t come here with the E-2 visa (the visa for english teachers)… so you’ll have to take the risk or just wait for a better opportunity to come…

  54. this is roz again..thanks for the info..i talked to my employer this morning.. her family owns a hairdressing shop in korea and china..they will make the visa for me stating that i will work in the shop..is it possible for them to make the visa for me as my employer? what kind of visa can they make for me?

  55. hi betchay,
    I appreciate your time & effort catering various problems sent to you.
    I also need your advice regarding my tourist visa application to Korea since this is my first time. And one of the required documents are present employment certificate & ITR… It really bothers me now because I don’t have these two documents since I resigned from my broadcasting work last 2004 & not presently working.
    Another thing is, could I right the name of my contact person from the school in the application form though his name is not stated in the invitation?(but he’s the one who sent me the invitation addressed from the school)
    I would really appreciate your immediate response fro this.
    Thank you,
    Emily

  56. Hi Miss Betchay,
    I’m very much hoping to go and visit Korea this year. I do have my aunt who works there. I want to visit but the requirements are too much. I’m just 20 years old so I don’t have properties that I own yet. I’ve only been working for 7 months so I don’t have enough money to show them. I also want to visit because my bf is a Korean Citizen and I want to visit him there. Is it possible for me to get a visa if my aunt’s boss will help me get an invitation to visit?
    Please do help me. Please reply at my email address : berry.icefly@gmail.com
    Your Help is very much appreciated!
    Ivy

  57. @ Emily – thanks for visiting… I’m a little bit confused. Did the school send you the invitation? Is it an English language school in Korea? I think if you’re not currently working, then that would explain why you wouldn’t be able to show them an employment certificate. Just tell them that you’re not working. When you submit your papers, they will check them first and if they’re not satisfied, they will just ask you to come back. It’s a hassle but I guess that’s the only way to know.
    @Nina Ivy – You don’t need to show extra documents to the embassy. They will only receive the ones that they require. If you’ve been working for only seven months, then that’s fine as long as you can show them proof of your employment. There really is no guarantee how to get a visa to Korea. If your aunt’s boss is willing to help, then why not? Accept all the assistance that you can get ;).

  58. Hi betchay,
    Thank you for your immediate response.
    Yes it’s an English Language School in Korea that invited me to visit their school.
    I just hope and pray that my visa be approved for me to visit Korea and at the same time visit my brother who is working there.
    God bless!
    Emily / charmel_gsc@yahoo.com.ph

  59. im planning to visit korea but the problem is i dont know how much do i spend to get the visa and how much is the show money…my bf is working there but its not legal, my aunt will sponsor me…this is my first time to travel overseas i dont know how was it but i do have my passport…kindly tell me what to do???i dont know how to process it…suggestion is mucg appreciated…pls send it to my email…God bless

  60. im planning to visit korea but the problem is i dont know how much do i spend to get the visa and how much is the show money…my bf is working there but its not legal, my aunt will sponsor me…this is my first time to travel overseas i dont know how was it but i do have my passport…kindly tell me what to do???i dont know how to process it…suggestion is mucg appreciated…pls send it to my email…God bless
    rain_rain69@yahoo.com

  61. Hello Betchay!
    I was referred to your blog by fellow POEA forumers and I’m happy to read your posts as it give me info on your experiences there in Korea.
    I need your sdvice. My situation’s this: I’m hired directly by a Canadian employer who’s going to establish an international school there in Seoul. So, i’ll be needing a work visa right? I’ll be teaching social studies there and the Korean University (where the IS will be located) informed me to apply for a C4 visa since it’s the fastest visa to process (usually 5 days).
    I went to the Korean Consular Office and the woman behind Window 3 (i don’t know if she’s the ms. park you referred to earlier) at first vehemenly shook her head and said “NO C4 VISA for FILIPINO English teachers. got a little peeved but i still pasted a smile and informed her that i’m not teaching English in Korea then she said i still need to submit a CCVI, ITR and personal bank certificate.
    I asked my Canadian & Korean employers to secure the CCVI for me there and the Canadian told me to apply the C4 even without the CCVI. Mr. Park (her business partner) said that it’ll take 4 weeks to process the CCVI. The original time table for the teachers to be in Korea is until the 25th of this month because the inservice training will start on the 27th. It appears that i’m the only Filipino teacher in the team, the others are flying out as tourists between the 27th-30th.
    I’m afraid of the next email that i’ll receive from my employers. if they ask me to apply for a visit visa, that’ll be the end of my dream to work abroad. I mean as the other people who posted their experiences with the tourist visa denial, i’m positive that i’ll join the numbers (huhuhuhu!). I’m not being pessimistic but i’m dealing with real facts. I only lack the CCVI, i have my ITR and personal bank account (although i wonder why they want it while i’m applying for a C4 work visa). Do i really need proof of funds as a temporary worker? I’ve already withdrawn a hefty amount from my bank account to buy my travel things and already exchanged some of them to US dollars. Will that affect my chances for visa approval?
    What are my other options? If i go on with a visit visa, i don’t have sufficient funds and properties as show money. Then you said it’ll take six months before i reapply if i get denied. i need help… thanks!

  62. Hello Betchay!
    I was referred to your blog by fellow POEA forumers and I’m happy to read your posts as it give me info on your experiences there in Korea.
    I need your sdvice. My situation’s this: I’m hired directly by a Canadian employer who’s going to establish an international school there in Seoul. So, i’ll be needing a work visa right? I’ll be teaching social studies there and the Korean University (where the IS will be located) informed me to apply for a C4 visa since it’s the fastest visa to process (usually 5 days).
    I went to the Korean Consular Office and the woman behind Window 3 (i don’t know if she’s the ms. park you referred to earlier) at first vehemenly shook her head and said “NO C4 VISA for FILIPINO English teachers. got a little peeved but i still pasted a smile and informed her that i’m not teaching English in Korea then she said i still need to submit a CCVI, ITR and personal bank certificate.
    I asked my Canadian & Korean employers to secure the CCVI for me there and the Canadian told me to apply the C4 even without the CCVI. Mr. Park (her business partner) said that it’ll take 4 weeks to process the CCVI. The original time table for the teachers to be in Korea is until the 25th of this month because the inservice training will start on the 27th. It appears that i’m the only Filipino teacher in the team, the others are flying out as tourists between the 27th-30th.
    I’m afraid of the next email that i’ll receive from my employers. if they ask me to apply for a visit visa, that’ll be the end of my dream to work abroad. I mean as the other people who posted their experiences with the tourist visa denial, i’m positive that i’ll join the numbers (huhuhuhu!). I’m not being pessimistic but i’m dealing with real facts. I only lack the CCVI, i have my ITR and personal bank account (although i wonder why they want it while i’m applying for a C4 work visa). Do i really need proof of funds as a temporary worker? I’ve already withdrawn a hefty amount from my bank account to buy my travel things and already exchanged some of them to US dollars. Will that affect my chances for visa approval?
    What are my other options? If i go on with a visit visa, i don’t have sufficient funds and properties as show money. Then you said it’ll take six months before i reapply if i get denied. i need help… thanks!

  63. HI Shey! You don’t really have much choice. The CCVI is really a requirement for the C-4 visa. As long as you have the CCVI, it wouldn’t really matter how much money you have in the bank. If you can’t get that, then you’ll have to take a chance and apply for the C-3 visa. As for the show money, it’s just a matter of luck sometimes. I know someone who didn’t have much money in her bank and got a tourist visa. It’s a risk, but you don’t really have a lot of choices… oh well, maybe you can just join a tour group.

  64. HI! I have an American fiance’ who works in korea as a teacher. And he wants me to visit him there on December and he wants us to get married there on the same month. What are the documents I need to be able to get a visa? And how long does it take to process it? And can we can get married there, if so, what are the necessary documents i need to present? My fiance’ will be the one who will shoulder all my expenses. Can you help me regarding this matter? Thank you and more power!

  65. somebody invited me to visit korea as a tourist but as you said it is only possible for a tourist to stay for three months. but i want to stay longer that that.so somebody told me that it is easier to go to korea as a student. i mean a filipino who wants to study korean language there. is it possible? how many months can i stay?what do i need to do? and if i go there as a tourist can i renew my stay there?

  66. @Jaja >> wait for my answer Tuesday night, i’ll go to the Philippine Embassy in the afternoon (to get my new passport) and I’ll ask them the procedure regarding your concern 🙂

  67. Dear Betchay,
    HI! I have an American fiance’ who works in korea as a teacher. And he wants me to visit him there on December and he wants us to get married there on the same month. What are the documents I need to be able to get a visa since I’m still a student? And how long does it take to process it? And can we can get married there, if so, what are the necessary documents i need to present? My fiance’ will be the one who will shoulder all my expenses. Can you help me regarding this matter? Thank you and more power!

  68. ^^ hiya! you come to korea as a tourist and get married here with your american fiance… you’ll have to apply at the korean embassy for your visa and submit all documents… btw, how old are you? if you’re a student, you’ll have to submit your parents’ financial documents to the embassy… like in my previous replies, you’ll need to show them your school registration (in lieu of certificate of employment since you’re a student), parents’ bank statement, parents’ ITR…
    if you’re planning to marry in Korea… you’ll need to prepare the following:
    – CENOMAR – certificate of no marriage from the NSO
    – birth certificate – from NSO
    – “Affidavit of Singleness” signed by your parents
    – if you’re not yet 21, you’ll need parental consent
    – if you’re over 21 but younger than 25, you’ll need parental advice
    present the documents above to the Philippine Embassy in Korea… since you’re marrying a foreigner, you can’t get married at the embassy… you have to do it at the “dong samuso” where your fiance lives… once you’re married, have it registered at the philippine embassy…
    then you can probably change your visa to F-1 (dependent) instead of C-3 (tourist visa) so you can stay longer…

  69. can i stay longer than 3 months as a tourist in korea? if not how can i extend my stay? please answer..thaks..

  70. hi!
    I just married last june 2007 in philippines. my husband is US military airforce still working at osan base, & were planning now 2 visit him in south korea as a tourist visa good for 2 months, i had already invitation letter signing his commanders, certificate of CFO, passport using my husband last name, military id , my husband passport..
    I was confusing now why of some applying visa for korea is getting denied even they hve a complete documents 2 applied for?? Did my documents is enough 2 apply visa?
    F u think dat i can have a tourist visa, how long it takes 2 hve visa???
    Hope u reply this ASAP…
    Thnx for kind consideration..

  71. @elsha >> congratulations! there is no reason why your visa would be denied… just go to the embassy and apply for a visa…
    @stacey >> you could try to apply for a student visa so you could stay here longer… tourist visa is only up to 90 days… after that, you’ll have to go back to the philippines and reapply again… that’s what one of my friends’ aunt did… she just travel back and forth on a tourist visa, but unfortunately she got denied the 5th time she applied…

  72. Hi betchay,
    My friend referred this blog to me and I’m quite happy to read so many articles related to Korea.
    My friend and i wishes to go to korea next year just to attend Jang Dong Gun’s B’day Party for his fans. To see Korea is only our second reason.
    Just like to ask if it would be hard for ask to get a Tourist Visa if we are not employed? Would Bank Certifications stating our deposits on several banks a big help? How much savings deposit do I need to show them? Do you think it’s better to ask the help of a travel agency than to apply personally for a tourist visa?
    Please advise me what would I do coz we really want to go to Korea next year.

  73. @Betchay
    If your husband is working here in Korea, you have to check what type of visa does he have.
    I have a D9 visa with me, and I can apply for a family visa (F-3) to my wife and kids, and also to any of my 1st degree relative (parents, brothers or sisters) without any hassles of submitting documents.
    But the thing is your husband has to apply here for that F3 visa which normally takes about 2 weeks. And then they will only provide a “visa number” which you need to give to Korean Embassy in Manila together with your passport, filled-up apllication form, and pictures. After 2 days, they will release your passport with the F3 visa attach on it.
    Normally, foreign company here has department that deals with the visa application of their employee so he can ask this department to apply it for you.

  74. Pls help me as to what I need to secure in my application since the school Im working with has an office in Seoul, shoukd I need an invitation from the Seoul office when we have the school right here in Makati? My Korean boss will support all the financial and documents but he isnt aware as where to begin with! Most Seoul staff can come here freely of course but how about me? Im Filipino..
    Please assist me..
    Thanks very much 🙂

  75. I have read some of the comments posted in yr blog, and u have given useful advice. I am currently teaching in China with an African passpost. I have being saving to apply for the tourist visa come this December, i should be able to have above $5,000 in my account is that enough to show them at the embassy. I have being working on my saving to build up, i think i should be able to get a bank statement showing i have funds here in China. I am equally hope my school over here will give me a certificate of employment and the tax certificate cus they deduct 300 yuan every month as my tax. My question is, if i present my letter of employment to the embassy from my school, wouldn’t the embassy think i want to go to Korea for a teaching job? I just want to go for a visit, PERIOD. You talk about group visitation, how can i join a group here in China? Your response will be most welcome.
    Cheers

  76. @romeo – hi! if you have an african passport from any of these countries: south africa, swaziland, mauritius and egypt; then you don’t need a visa to tour korea for a maximum of 30 days… you just need to have a return ticket before your departure…

  77. dear betchay, i have a husband who is working in korea for one year and seven months already. he is inviting me to spend the holidays with him in korea, but he did not send me a notarized invitation letter,i got information that invitation letter is not necessary anymore. we only got married last january 2007, so my ITR still bears my maiden name, do u think the consular office will accept the same? i have the necessary documents already, but i’m afraid that i would be denied.

  78. I have an Australian boyfriend who currently based there in Korea. He wants me to join him there in Korea next month. What do you think should I do? My concern is the bank certificate that I will be submitting to the Korean embassy…is there any particuar amount like P150,000.00 that should be stated in my savings account?

  79. Hi! i’m planning to visit korea but i dont have an invitation. But i have russian visa, is this can help to granted my visa for korea if ever? Your response will be apprecited.
    PS. please kindly email your answer
    thank you
    Ruby

  80. hello,
    i really need help. my student in korea is inviting me to go there for a five-day trip. he will pay all the expenses. and he will send his invitation and certificte of account. all i have to do is get my tourist visa for korea. i really dont have any idea about it. im living in cebu. do i have to go to manila to get my visa? i really need help about this…please…
    thank you so much!!!

  81. Hi betchay!
    i have been planning to travel in Korea for the longest time now.. and it so happens that i met a lot of Korean friends
    here in the Philippines.
    Now that they’re back in Korea, they’re inviting me to come
    there for a vacation and stay in their house.
    I think it is really great because i dont have to worry
    about hotel fees or food.hehe. Only plane ticket and my
    allowance.
    I am planning to get a tourist visa and i think
    i will just stay for like 1 week there.
    I will be taking an NCLEX exam soon, and
    i just thought of taking it in Korea.
    What visa should i apply to if im going to take
    the NCLEX there?
    And if ever my application of visa is approved,
    how soon should i leave for Korea?
    do i need to fly off there immediately
    or i can go there anytime as long as
    my visa is approved?

  82. annyeong…i really want to go in korea for work.. i have my filipino friend there and his korean boy friend…i just want to ask if do i need to complete all the requirements such as (1) bank certificate stating your savings, (2) certificate of employment showing your salary and position, (3) latest ITR (income tax return), (4) your passport and a copy, plus the (5) visa application form and (6) 2×2 pictures and if you have been invited, (7) a notarized invitation letter. so that i can have a visa?? how much would i pay all in all?? please help me!!! as soon as possible!!! thanks..

  83. @tam – you have to complete the documents, otherwise they would not accept your application… if you want to work here, i’d suggest you do it legally… if you visit for 59 days or less, there’s no need to pay for the visa… once they accept your complete documents, you can get back your passport a week after… but acceptance of your application doesn’t guarantee that you’re gonna get a visa…
    @ady – there’s an expiration to the visa… but upon applying, you’ll have to tell them when do you intend to leave… sorry, i don’t have any info about the nclex in korea…
    @chayne – please read the previous comments (and or the article)… the documentary requirements have been listed a couple of times (sorry, don’t have time to list them down again)
    @ruby – you have to complete the documents or they won’t accept your application… if you’re a student, then you have to complete the required document for students traveling as tourists… submitting complete documents is not a guarantee that they will give you a visa…
    @lourdes – i’m not sure how much money you should have in your bank… i know someone who didn’t have enough but was able to get a visa… you won’t really know if you’re gonna get a visa unless you apply for one 😉
    @myls – the invitation letter is really just optional… even if you have the invite, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll be granted a visa… if they think your ITR is not acceptable, they will ask you to get a new one… anyway, what is your husband’s visa? it’s actually “easier” for a dependent/spouse to get a tourist visa to korea…

  84. hi!
    i just need to know what kind of visa should i apply for korea if i will only be attending a seminar there for 4 days. where can i secure a visa application form? is it available on the net? please reply through my email add. thanks.
    secondly, is the invitation to attend the seminar sufficient or do i still need to notarize it? the seminar, by the way, is sponsored by a national organization here in the philippines.

  85. hello,
    do i need to have a certain amount in my account to get a korean visa like 50,000.00?? i really have no idea…
    i really need an answer…
    thank you so much!!!
    God Bless You….

  86. hello,
    do i need to have a certain amount in my account to get a korean tourist visa like 50,000.00?? i really have no idea…
    i really need an answer…
    thank you so much!!!
    God Bless You….

  87. Hello,
    I’m planning to go to South Korea this December to visit my bf.. he’s going to cover all my expenses for the trip. Can you give me a sample of a sponsored letter or an invitation letter?
    Hoping for your reply soon..
    Thank you!

  88. I’m a bit confused by some of the responses so far. I’m a Canadian citizen working in Korea on an E4 Visa until Dec. of this year. I may extend my contract for another year. My husband, who I married in Canada before coming here, recently went home to his country of citizenship, Nigeria. When he went to the Korean embassy in Nigeria, they told him he needed a formal invitation letter, notarized by a lawyer, before they would even accept the application. My first question: do you have a rough idea what these cost in Korea? Second, is there a chance they may still deny his application even though all his paperworks are up to date, and third, are inviation letters available at the Korean embassy here in Korea? Can I go fill out a form, and have them sign it before sending it to him in Nigeria?
    Thanks for whatever help you may be able to offer.

  89. Hi..A Korean friend of mine invited me to visit her this coming December… She promised me to cover the expenses but after reading your posts, I think it would be difficult for me…Could you tell me exactly what are the requirements needed in going there? I plan to stay for only a month….Do you think it would be very difficult for me to get a tourist visa since I’ve never been abroad….Thank you so much…..Your reply is highly appreciated…..

  90. hi..im happy to finally find someone can shed light to my inquiries..
    i have a korean friend who invited me to stay with them. since im an ESL teacher and i filipino, i can’t acquire a working visa. i was wondering if i can get just a c4 or is there any other available visa for me? do you know what company provides it? or how can i acquire it? im really eager to hear from you..thank you so much and more power.

  91. @life >> are you coming to korea as a tourist? then you should apply for the C3 visa… the C4 visa is for temporary employment (for artists, lecturers, entertainers, athletes) and you’ll need a certificate of recognition of visa issuance for that… i think it would be better to have your korean friend ask which visa would suit you best

  92. @Almira >> check the previous comments… i’ve listed the requirements for tourist visa application… i know some filipinos who were able to get a visa even if they haven’t traveled overseas before… just try and if you fail, then six months is not really that long a time for you to apply again… one good thing about applying for a tourist visa to Korea is that you never need to pay for one (unless you want to stay longer than 59 days)… good luck!

  93. @Jan >> the Korean Embassy in Nigeria may require documents different from the embassy in the Philippines… you can get the invitation letter at any Korean law office… it’s not expensive (my husband was able to afford it!) and it’s according to the standard format…

  94. Thanks a lot for the information.
    You’re site is great..I’ll drop by here as often as I can…
    I really hope I can get a visa as soon as possible….
    Thanks a lot again….

  95. hi betchay,
    i am interested to have a tourist visa in korea. how much would be the bank’s savings account needed? is there any minimum savings account? how much would it be? i need to visit my bf in s.korea… please reply to me soon. thanks!

  96. h0w can i get ITR if i did n0t w0rk last year in the philippines? c0z i w0rk in k0rea and i just return t0 the PI last dec.2006 i have all the requirEments except f0r the ITR..
    Thank y0u and advance f0r Y0ur HELP…

  97. hi ms. betchay,
    I don’t know if you still remember me but we already met at Dunkin Donuts together with your new born baby last year. I’ve been religiously visiting your site and I always see a lot of comments about Filipinos who want to visit Korea. I would like to share my experiences and I think it might help a lot of people. I have a Korean boyfriend who I met here in the Philippines. With my first C-3 visa application, I submitted my Annual Income Tax Return, Certificate of Employment, Bank Certificate, Application Form with attached picture, and a Letter of Invitation that wasn’t even notarized but I attached a faxed copy of my invitor’s (my boyfriend) passport. I asked my sister who just recently visited Japan at that time to apply together with me so she also furnished them with the same requirements. We had a little more than 300,000 in our joint savings deposit at that time. After submitting all the documents, we were given a release form. We were given an interview form to fill up that day and we were told that the consul will be interviewing us. When we were called for the interview, the consul mainly asked about our jobs at the present (I was really nervous as I wasn’t even a regular employee at that time) and my relationship with the invitor and what is his employment. We were given 15 days but I had to ask the consul to give us 30 days. Applying for a visa together with my sister greatly helped me in getting a visa.
    My second time to apply for a visa was much easier and I didn’t have any interview. I just submitted the same requirements to Window 4 plus a copy of my korean Visa and got the visa in 5 days.
    The third time, I submitted the same requirements as I mentioned but I was given an Interview form to fill up. The questions were; about my job at present, company profile, travels abroad, about my family and their jobs, etc.
    The fourth and last time I applied for a visa was last Sept. 24, 2007. Their rules changed and it became more difficult to acquire a visa. For those who visited Korea only once will still be regarded as first-time applicants and will sumbit at window 3 and for those who have 2 or more visas issued after 2005 will be regarded as frequent visitor and will be using window 4. I submitted the same requirements and was given a relase form last 27th. To my surprise, I was told I was denied by the woman on window 3. I demanded to talk with the consul who is responsible for my denial to know the reasons why I was denied. The consul gave the following reasons why Filipinos get denied a lot and it’s as follows; 1. Fake Employment Certificate, ITR, and Bank Certificate ( the one that was issued in Recto or bearing false company names) 2. The applicant should be working at the time of application – (for people who applies for 30-59 days) no company would allow their employee to be out of work for a month or two 3. Purpose of work – if they think that the purpose of visit is possible employment then they would readily deny them. Since I didn’t fall in those categories, the consul listened to my plea and finally gave me visa for 59 days.
    My tip for you guys is to please never even try to submit fake documents, try to shorten your desired lenght of stay, and make sure that you are currenly working, and by no means should you give them a doubt that you will be working there. If it’s possible try to apply a visa with a family member. And be confident in the interview and show the consul that you are very sincere and truthful in all the things you say.
    Ms. betchay, I heard that if I visited there 5 times I don’t need a visa anymore. I heard it form the Immigration there. I would like to know if you also know about this.
    I’ll be visiting visiting there again two weeks later. Thanks and Good day!

  98. Hello Ate Betchay!
    Ate, I and my American fiance’ will be getting married on December. I would like to know if he can invite me to visit him in Korea once we’re married. If so, what are the requirements/document I need to provide.
    Thanks!

  99. Dear Ate Betchay,
    I and my American fiance’ will be getting married on December 26 of this year. Perhaps afetr my graduation he will invite me to visit Korea because he is working there as an English Teacher. Is there a possibility that I will be given a visa and if so, what are the requuiements?
    Thanks and more power!
    Jing

  100. Hi Betchay! thank you for your reply. I sent a message four months ago about my plan of going to Korea to look for a job.
    This time, my fiance’s parents would like to see me and I am planning to stay with them for a year.
    What kind of visa do I need? You told me that I could get another kind of visa if I’m married to my Korean fiance here in the Philippines. What kind of visa is that?
    Your website is very helpful.Thanks a lot.

  101. hi,betchay.i need ur answer to my question.im living in korea.and i want to invite my brother.im a filipino married to a korean,not yet a citizen.the problem is,i don’t know exactly what’s the first step to do and how.pls.i do need ur advice.i would be happy to see ur response…melchie

  102. hi ms betchay, i am from manila philippines my grandfather fought at koren war under PEFTOK they say he belongs to the greatest 10BCT how can i get records that he really fought way back then, he’s name is ALFREDO DELFIN…thanks & God bless…

  103. hi ms betchay, i am from manila philippines my grandfather fought at korean war under PEFTOK they say he belongs to the greatest 10BCT how can i get records that he really fought way back then, he’s name is ALFREDO DELFIN…thanks & God bless…

  104. Hi! I’m Rica Custodio, currently working as a media executive here in the Philippines. One of my clients would like to introduce a service that would be beneficial to our kababayans there in Korea. In line with this, we’re looking for channels wherein we can disseminate information about this service to our Kababayans. I’d like to know if there are Filipino newspapers or magazines being distributed there. Also, I’d like to know if there are radio shows and/or TV programs (like TFC) being aired there?
    Hope to hear from you. My email address is mizpah079@hotmail.com.

  105. @melchie – same procedure as above, please read na lang… ask your husband to provide an invitation letter
    @allein – i think it’s better to ask the officials in the philippines? my father was also a soldier and his records are in camp aguinaldo, afaik
    @jocelyn – if you’re married to a korean, your visa should be F-2-1 (temporary resident through marriage)… if you’re not married yet, you can apply for a C-3 or tourist visa
    @Emma – hi! long time no talk… yup, it’s true… exempted ka na sa visa next time, pero same length of time pa rin na max of 3 months stay… kailan ang kasal?

  106. hi. just want to know, what will be the requirements for F-2-1 (temporary resident through marriage)… will this be easier? thanks

  107. hi. just want to know, what will be the requirements for F-2-1 (temporary resident through marriage)… will this be easier? is there a possibility that you will be denied of a this kind of visa? thanks

  108. hi betchay! i already applied for C-3 visa last october 8, 2007 and thank God it was granted by the Korean Embassy, i got my visa last October 18, 2007. i’m planning to go to korea by mid of November, probably by November 18. it’s my first time to travel abroad, so may I know what to expect as soon as i arrived in Incheon Airport, especially in the Immigration, what are things that I am supposed to do when I got there. thanks so much!

  109. Dear Ate Betchay,
    I and my American fiance’ will be getting married on December 26 of this year. Perhaps afetr my graduation he will invite me to visit Korea because he is working there as an English Teacher. Is there a possibility that I will be given a visa and if so, what are the requuiements?
    Thanks and more power!
    Jing

  110. Hi Betchay
    Annulled ako then got married again recently sa military man based sa Osan. Now he wants me to resign from work to be together na. Sabi niya Tourist daw muna ang visa ko then pag nasa korea na ako ayusin niya papers ko so i can stay longer. Pero if tourist ang kukunin ko ang mga requirements ko like Employment Cert, Bank Statements ITR at passport ay under my 1st husband’s name. Would this be a problem? Di pa ako nagcha-change name sa passport so di pa niya surname ang carry ko. Mas maganda bang ung current name na ang gamitin ko or mas maganda pag magchange na ako ng passport ko using my husband’s name? If magchange naman ako, di ba maging conflict ito sa mga docs from work like ITR. Employment cert…Please advice naman alin ang mas advantage. Thanks..
    BTW nakapunta na ako sa Korea last Oct 2005. Would this help?
    thanks again

  111. i just opened my account dated november 23 and i also have the bank cetrification dated the same date..is it ok? woudn’t they asked me why? and will there still be interview in visa application?

  112. i already have the requirements but not the return/onward ticket yet.is it possible to apply a visa first? is the ticket a requirement in applying a visa?

  113. Hi emma chan!! thanks for ur info. I hope u can comment on this since you also have the same situation (korean bf thing)
    hello… i am a law student and i want to visit korea for only 3 weeks or one month since I have a boyfriend who will be going there from Australia.. But he is a korean.. Unfortunately, he is still a student. If that is the case, can i get a visa easily since he is still a student? please help.. im planning to go there in feb of 2008. thanks a lot!

  114. Hi Betchay,
    kaylangan ba talaga ng ITR pag mag-aapply ka ng working visa sa korean embassy? Pano kung wala akong ITR pero may CCVI na ko galing sa magiging employer ko sa Korea? Tsaka puede ba kung makapunta at mag-work sa Korea ng hindi muna ako magreregister sa POEA tutal direct hire naman ako. Pakisagot lang po ASAP!!!!!Salamat

  115. Hi stef,
    I’m not really sure if it’s going to be easier to get a visa when your bf is a student but not to dishearten you, I heard that it can be a disadvantage. If you wish to provide the embassy an invitation letter from your bf to help with your application, he needs to state his status, what he does, and he should guarantee that he will support you financially which in some case difficult for a student. Let me say your approval depends on your documents and the consul’s prerogative, and your boyfriend’s invitation letter is just a supporting document and is not really required. So his status is not the question here but YOURS. You have to establish the fact that you have your own means to support yourself during your stay and you are not going to stay here illegally and it wont matter much if your bf is a student or not. In your case, since you are a student and under your parent’s finances (I assume) you are going to use their documents instead. I hope this helps. Goodluck!

  116. @glen >> you don’t need an ITR if you have already have a CCVI… AFAIK, CCVI is good for 90 days… so apply na for your visa…

  117. em,
    thanks a lot for the your reply. I got your point. hehe…
    I just hope i wont get denied. Thanks a lot!
    More power to u!

  118. hi there. it’s really great to visit this page. it’s helping me a lot. ive got some questions. i actually applied for a visa last year. i was not able to get the tourist visa for some reason. i asked my korean sponsor to call the philippine embassy to ask what went wrong. he was informed that i did not have enough money for the tour and for some reasons as well. i think, what stated in the bank certificate was like P60,000. it was mentioned in the invitation letter that my sponsor (korean friend) will shoulder the air fare, accommodation and that i am his responsibility. i want to try to apply for a tourist visa again this year. same sponsor,,, but the only difference is that i havent worked for a year. i am a free lancer now. i dont have itr and the like.
    is it possible if the korean sponsor will be the one applying for my tourist visa?
    one more thing, there is this korean company in the philippines.. they want to hire me and send to korea since it has an office in korea. the business is new in the philippines. do you happen to know if that is possible? to get a working visa sponsored by the company? please help. thanks!
    thanks for the time. i hope you can help me.. i am really confused! thanks a lot. 🙂

  119. Hi,
    i’m from philippines,last couple of minutes i checked all the reviews in this site and i was so sad reading all the statement from most pilipinos applied in korea just to get a visa.anywas,
    i am here in korea for 2months last 21 of dec,.my husband work as a univeristy professor in wonju and luckily i got here with all the documents provided.first,we got married in philippines during his 1month vacation from school.While he was there in philippines,we subscribe the MC from NSo,his invatation from korea with notorized ,invation from school as well,korea is very meticulous people,and so we keep updating from Manila embassy trying to ask what are those things we really need to fulfill the visa…we went to manila A.M to ask possible reqiurements and u have to go to the windo 3 just to make sure they have the small piece of papers for APPLICATION ReQUIREMENTS for spouse marrying to foreign work in korea.BUt i think for spouse married in soldier i found a piece of papers too different from what we have.
    So far,philippine cannot get korea without visa even 15 days or less……….
    ty,
    joan

  120. hi, 2 times na po ako nadeny dati i have all documents din and invitation from my fiance (that time) whos currently stationed in south korea as a US Army. Ang hirap kumuha ng visa 2nd time ko na deny was May 2007 pero July nagpakasal na kami sa pilipinas and kumuha na ko ng visa ayun after 7 days may visa na ko.. Nandito na ko ngayon sa Korea but i go to PI every month. May cousin ako na gusto ko isama dito he’s just 20 years old. and student lang.. May kilala ang husband ko na manager sa yongsan factory he is korean. pag po ba nanggaling ang invitation nya dun madali sya mabibigyan ng visa? help po thanks

  121. hi betchay!
    I’ve read a lot of advice from the information you provided to our kababayans! Well, its my turn to ask some ideas from you. I’m actually here in korea right now as a tourist visa holder. Its a luck that I was able to surpass from rigid rule requirements in getting a korean visa. I’ll be staying here for three months. My problem is do you know some korean employers whom I can get a certificate of recognition for visa issuance. I really wanna work here. I’m looking forward for your reply.
    Any action is favorably appreciated.

  122. hi betchay! im one of the growing numbers of Filipino who apply for tourist visa but denied,, hearbroken because my fiancee wish for me to join him on korea for vacation anniversary pa namin.. he cant understand the fact that we as Filipinos even thouggh 15 days vacation needs to apply for visa and that Hurt me so much because he really unlike most of the country why allow mostly koreans to stay here in phillipines while we cant go to their country in more legal ways,, i hope the government can do something about that

  123. Hi Betchay,
    Im a Filipino i have a dutch citizen niece wants to go to korea with me it is posible to get us a tourist visa and one of my office mate wants to get there to is there any diff if we could apply as group tourist visa or a single tourist visa, and wahat is the requirement do we need to get a korean tourist visa, i hope that you can help us. Thanks

  124. Hi Ms. Betchay. Good day. I am a call centre agent here in Makati Philippines & I am really interested to visit South Korea. Your article helped me so much especially with the requirements needed for me to get a visa however may i asked if the Korean Embassy requires an amount for my Bank Savings. If yes, may i please ask how much will be the minimum amount? As much as possible, I also wanted to pursue a career in South Korea as an english tutor however my friend told me that i need to get an international certification for me to teach engligh in their country, are you also aware of some centres where i can take the exams for english certification? your reply is much appreciated. thank you so much.

  125. Hi Ms. Betchay, it’s Lay again. The thing is i have a korean boyfriend & he wanted me to get a tourist visa/working visa going to south korea. the problem is we are worried that his parents might not like me because i am a filipina & considering the fact that he is the first born son. according to him he is expected to mary a korean national but do you think there is a way to make them like me? thank you so much.

  126. continuation…Ms. Betchay…what visa do i need to apply if im planning to go to korea? would it be a tourist visa or a c-3 visa?

  127. hi lay! Korea’s tourist visa is the C3. I just want to tell you that it’s not legal for Filipino passport holders to teach English in Korea. If you want to teach English here, your options are 1) to be a citizen of any of these countries: US, UK, South Africa, Australia, Canada and New Zealand; and 2) marry a Korean.
    If you have a Korean boyfriend, ask him to send you an invitation letter that you can present to the Korean embassy. However, that is also not a guarantee that you will be granted a visa. You can always appeal or ask your boyfriend to make an appeal if you get rejected. I have friends who are married to first born sons and to tell you frankly, their lives aren’t easy. So much is expected of the first born son and his wife.

  128. @ Tony > your dutch citizen niece doesn’t need a visa to tour Korea up to 90 days… in your case, if you’re a filipino citizen then you’ll need to present the following documents at the korean embassy:
    – passport
    – ID pictures
    – completed application form
    – latest ITR
    – bank certificate (stating the amount of money you have in the bank)
    – employment certificate
    – invitation from a korean national (if available)
    afaik, even if you apply as a group, you’ll still need to present individual requirements… it takes about a week to get a visa and you’ll have to wait six months before you can apply again if you get rejected… if you have traveled to other visa-requiring countries, it would be easier for you to get a korean tourist visa… good luck! and don’t hesitate to ask if you need more info 🙂

  129. @Marcel >> i know how you feel! is your boyfriend korean? perhaps you can ask him to call the embassy and make an appeal… about 15 years ago, we could go to korea as tourists freely, without the need of a visa… it is our government that requested the korean government not to allow filipinos to enter korea without visas… i learned about it from Magandang Gabi Bayan years ago… and our neighbor who went to korea without a visa 15 years ago…

  130. hello Mam Betchay,
    i am a student who have a filipino frend working in korea(my frend has the earning capacity to support my stay there).. he wants me to visit him their this coming vacation april,
    can you please help me for the needed requirements, my frend also dont have any idea on how does the Letter of invitation or request letter is or its format, and does it realy needed to be notarized or to be notified by a korean lawyer mam. May i request for a sample letter if you have mam, i really apreciate it. Thank you so much:)

  131. Hi Ms. Betchay!
    I’ve been searching the web the whole afternoon & surprisingly found your blog site cool for korean visa application newbies like me.
    I’d just like to know the requirements in filing a tourist visa application for conference attendees like me. The conference is gonna be held on 13th-22nd Aug at Seoul, sponsored by Rotary International there. I’ve already registered for that event. Btw, it’s the International Rotaract Conference.
    Do I still need to submit an ITR and other financial documents when I file my visa application? or will payment of conference fee covering everything there will suffice? Do I just need to get a notarized invitation or confirmation of registration from them? What about other student Rotaractors particpating the said event? We were actually invited by the Korean organizers when we attended similar event in Malaysia last September.
    Although I’m optimistic about getting there for that event as I hold a key position of the Rotaract Club here in the Philippines, I do still need an intelligent opinion from travel guru like you. I haven’t just really tried applying for any visa yet but I’ve been to Macau and Malaysia already solely for a week-long tourism purposes. Somehow, I’m kinda perplexed of being denied on the very first time.
    Thanks so much. God bless and more power to you, Ma’am!

  132. thanks mam betchay i think i just need to read above, hehehe i overlooked, reply for jan is a great help. thank you:)

  133. @franz >> it’s better to have all the documents required for a tourist (C3) or business (C2) visa… in your case, i don’t see any reason why they would deny your application… and just in case, you can always make an appeal
    @james >> if you’re a student, you’ll have to show them your school registration papers

  134. hello im filipina and i have a bf who work there in korea and his boss want me to go there for a tourist my boyfriend was the one who gonna take the risk for my expenses what will i present to the korea embassy if i apply for a tourist visa?…i need a reply a.s.a.p thank you and godbless

  135. hi Betchay,
    hello im filipina and i have a bf who work there in korea and his boss want me to go there for a tourist my boyfriend was the one who gonna take the risk for my expenses and his boss will send me an invitation letter…im only 20 and im not working what will i present to the korean embassy if i apply for a tourist visa?..thank you and godbless..

  136. hello im filipina and i have a bf who work there in korea and his boss want me to go there for a tourist my boyfriend was the one who gonna take the risk for my expenses and his boss will send me an invitation letter…im only 20 and im not working what will i present to the korean embassy if i apply for a tourist visa?..thank you and godbless..

  137. Hi betchay,
    Hi there my dear kababayan. I was so amazed to find a blog like yours whose helping alot of our fellow Filipinos who wants to visit Korea. I have plans to visit Korea on summer vacation July or August this year. I am currently here in Shanghai working as a college professor. My boyfriend is a Filipino citizen who has a working visa in Korea. he’s inviting me to visit him. Luckily I have a very good Korean friend whose very much willing to send me an invitation letter so I can visit Korea. I will just stay there for 2 weeks because I need to go back to Shanghai because I will renew my contract with the new university. With all honesty, I have no plans to work there just for vacation period. I just really want to see my boyfriend. Do you think it’s possible to apply for a tourist visa in Korea embassy here in China. I’ve been travelling to other Asian countries as well as a tourist. When I read the articles in your blog somehow I felt that it’s not that easy to apply for one. I hope you can give me some suggestions about the possible things that might happen for my toursit visa application. Thanks a lot and keep up having the helpful spirit to answer our questions. Take care and God bless you and your family. Please I hope it’s okay if you may also send me an email at sheryosoh@yahoo.com.
    Best regards,
    Sher ^-^

  138. Hi! I have lived in the U.S. for almost ten years and now I’m working in Japan. But I kept my Filipino citizenship. Now I’m wondering where I can apply for a C-3 visa going to Korea. I’ve been there once when I was still in the U.S, in fact, that was a year ago. So, that’s the only thing that I’m wondering about is where I can apply for a C-3 visa since Japanese people don’t need a visa going to Korea. Should I go back to the Philippines to get one or do you think there is a consulate somewhere around Japan? I’ve been looking for a Korean Consulate here in Japan but I couldn’t find one. I’ll wait for your reply. Thanks.

  139. hi ate betchay!!!!!!
    kylangan ko pa bang mag-exit ng korea pagmalapit ng mag-expired ung visa ko or puede akong magpaextend dito? may re-entry permit na ko tsk may alien registration card na din ako. Ung visa ko nga pala is F1 Visa and valid lang cya for 3 months. pakisagot lang po salamat!!!!!

  140. @glenda >> you can extend your visa at the immigration center nearest you… you must present some documents though and you’ll need your sponsor to come with you…

  141. @sherry and Maricel >> from what i know, different korean embassies have different documentary requirements for the C-3 visa… you’ll need to call the Korean Embassy in China and ask them if you can apply for the visa there… i knew of a pinay who tried to apply for a C-3 at the Korean Embassy in Thailand, but she was told to go home to the Philippines and apply there… well, that was four years ago… so it’s really better to call the korean embassies in your area 🙂

  142. @arlene >> kailangan mo talagang i-present yung documents required for tourist visas lalo na at first time application mo… kasi hindi talaga nila tatanggapin kung hindi kumpleto documents mo… pero subukan mo rin na documents ng bf mo dalhin mo or yung sa boss ng bf mo… anyway, kung hindi acceptable docs mo eh hindi naman nila tatanggapin application mo…

  143. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    Your blog is really helpful!..I also have a question, I’m currently holding a C3 visa which was originally issued for an event that i was supposed to attend in Korea last November. That trip was sponsored by the company im working with. Unfortunately, I didn’t able to make it on the said event and didn’t able to use my visa. My visa will expire on the 31st of this month. I’m planning to use it before the final entry date (2008/01/31) just for vacation (kasi sayang naman yung visa) and thought this might be my chance to visit Korea. Do you think it’s still possible for me to use my visa, even for my personal trip this time? Does it matter if it has a remark on it, in Korean (i supposed it’s the name of the event) and the event date?..
    From what i learned thru your blog and various sites, C3 (temporary visiting) visa can be used for tourism, all kinds of conferences, passing by, etc. So i guess, I won’t have any problems if i’ll use it for vacation, since i was issued a C3 tourist visa, not a C2 business visa, am i right?
    Im planning to go there for 4 days/3 nights and my visa is valid for 15 days. Im just confused with that “remark”…:( I’ve already made my airline and hotel reservations though..hehe..
    Thank you in advance for your time! Sana hindi po kayo magsasawa to help us! God Bless!

  144. Hello ms. betchay, i find this site very helpful especially now. I have a korean boyfriend but he’s studying here in the philippines. his family wants me to visit them on april, and they’ll be coming here on april to fetch me, but the problem is im unemployed i’m worrying about the certificate of employment and all, but i have been to the U.S once..obviously, i don’t have enough funds in my bank. my boyfriend’s mom was telling me of a clinic which can train me as a nurse– I am a nurse here in the philippines and in the US.. can i use a korean tourist visa first then fix some papers? or what steps should i take? thanks for the help! be waitin for your reply…

  145. by the way, im 22. i just resigned from my job as a clinical instructor in one university here. thanks talaga…be waitin..

  146. Hi! My husband next project will be in Korea. I’ve been visiting China and Hong Kong twice a month last year, because of my husband’s type of work. He’s an expat engineer. My question is, is it gonna be easy for me to apply for a Korean visa? Can it be granted? And how long it will take for the application process? Thanks in advance

  147. hello, is ther a greater possibility for government employees to get a tourist visa to korea, I intend to go there just for a one week vacation (invited by a US Military Friend, not a fiancee) im afraid that i might got turned down because ang liit lang ng sweldo sa gobyerno and at the same time, i have no savings at all. Can you assess kung ilang percent ang chance of getting a visa.

  148. hi ate betchay…arlene poh i2 ung ng msg din saukln lang tnx poh sa rply nyo ask qlng din poh qng ok lang ba na may savings aq 80thou sa bank pero magtourist aq ng 1mnth lang sa korea kaso wla nmn aq work d2 tsaka 20 palang aq kaya lang aq nakapag save ng ganun pera kc may bf aq lagi aq bnbgyan allowance kaya cnisave q ok lang kaya un pakita q plus payong invitation letter na galing sa boss nya pero pag dating q kc dun cla gagastos dnmn aq…tnx poh ulit

  149. ate betchay ngapala poh pano yan wala aq ITR ?…Dnmn poh aq ngwowork tsaka ngstop poh aq sa skul..tnx poh tlga sa rply nyo natatakot din kc aq mag apply tapos ma deny poh aq lalo na 1st tym q poh…tnx poh tlga godbless….

  150. @yhen >> you might be in korea by now… 🙂
    @midmi >> it’s easier to get the Korean tourist visa if you’ve had a visa from another country, like the US… and if your bf’s family will come to fetch you, they could probably accompany you at the embassy for your visa application, and in case you get denied, they could probably make an appeal 🙂
    @Tanisha >> you can get the F-3 visa which is for dependents/spouses (different from spouses of Korean nationals)… your husband will have to apply for a Certificate of Visa Recognition first… he has to submit some documents at the immigration office and once he gets the CVR, you can go to the Korean Embassy and apply for the visa…
    @sheryn >> libre naman ang application ng visa eh, just try and if you get denied then try again… after six months 🙂
    @arlene >> wow! ang galing naman, ni-save mo binibigay sa yo ng bf mo… hindi rin naman kasi guarantee yung invitation letter na makakakuha ka ng visa… siguro pwede rin mag-add ka na lang ng statement of support galing sa bf mo or boss ng bf mo… ang maganda lang kasi sa C3 visa, libre siya hangang 59 days…

  151. Hello po, thank God po at napunta po ako s website nyo. Hdi ko po inexpect n my katulad nyo po pla n 2mu2long s mga pinoy about s pgpunta s Korea.
    Ask ko lng po kung anu po best na gagawin, and2 po kc ako ngaun s China ngtu2ro po ng mga Chinese students s isang school, 22 years old po ako. Malapit n po kc mgend ang contract ko d2 kya po plano ko po sna n punta n ng Korea at iaccept po ung offer ng Korean friend ko n mgwork po ako sknila as private home tutor kso nga po gya nga po ng cnbi nyo illegal ang english teachers dyan. So ang plano ko po punta nlng me as a tourist, ung nsa passport ko po nkaindicate dun n ngwo2rk ako as a teacher d2. Ble pumunta lng din po kc ako d2 s China as tourist tas d2 n rin po me nghanap ng work, nta2kot po ako n ganun din po isipin ng Korean Embassy n mgtotour ako tas ska ako hanap ng work tas ang bagsak nun eh made2ny ako. S tingin nyo po best thing po b n ku2ha ulit ako ng new passport pra hdi po makita un o i2ng hawak ko ng passport ang gamitin ko kc mtgal p nmn po ang expiration eh tas hdi p po puno. Saan po kya mas madaling kumuha ng visa, d2 po b kya s China o s Pilipinas?
    Maraming Salamat po. Hoping po for your reply.

  152. Thanks Maam Betchay, uhm when i bring my requirements for visa application should it still be the complete ones? what i mean po, yung ITR, certificate of employment, the bank certificate and all po?

  153. tnx tlga ate betchay !!! bsta poh ba dpt notarized ung letter tsaka po ang sv kc sakin dun sa letter daw na papadala eh ssvhn na din nila na sila gagastos sakin pag andun poh aq.. pkta qdin poh kaya ung savings q kht maliit lang…hayz knkbahan poh tlga aq kya ayaw qmuna agd mag pnta embassy baka poh kc bglang pabalikin aq pag d cmplete docs q hehhehe…ate sana dka mgsawa sagutin mga tanong q wla poh kc aq matanungan buti nlng nakita qpoh 2ng site n2….godbless^_^

  154. @arlene >> sorry ha pero hindi ko masyado naintindihan sulat mo eh 🙂
    dapat talaga kumpleto ang documents… ang invitation letter ay optional naman pero makakatulong din… pwedeng kunin iyun sa mga law office sa korea, may kaunting bayad lang… meron na kasing form talaga na para sa invitation letter.

  155. @Mavic >> sorry ha pero hindi kita i-encourage na pumunta ng Korea at mag-work illegally… pero kung gusto mo pumunta bilang turista, pagkakaalam ko sa Korean Embassy ka sa Pilipinas dapat mag-apply ng visa… dapat din na kumpleto ang mga documents mo para tanggapin nila ang application mo…

  156. Maraming salamat po ate betchay…Naiintindihan ko po ang ibig nyong sabihin, I know n ayaw nyo po akong mapahamak just in case gawin ko po un. Hdi po kc ganun kalaki ung sahod ko d2 s china unlike po dun s offer nung korean friend ko. What I wanted lng nmn po eh ang makatulong po me tlga s mga magulang at mga kapatid ko. I know na ako lng din po ang inaasahan nila so khit gani2 n my mga karamdaman din po ako ngpursue p rin po ako n pumunta abroad not thingking of what might happen to me later on. Ang 22o po nyan wla po ako nung mga ibang requirements kc first tym ko din po go abroad tas fresh grad po ako nung umalis po ako ng pinas. Kya nga ask ko nga din po kng my mga programs din po about s pagisponsor kc willing din po ung Korean friend ko n mgsponsor s akin to go Korea. He is willing n po n ibigay ung plane ticket ko kso ang problema ko po ayaw ko p po snang tanggapin kc bka madeny ako lalo na’t wla ako nung ibang requirements gya nlng po ng ITR tas for bank account nmn po i’m starting to earn something.
    Maraming salamat po tlga ate. Thank God for using you as an instrument to help other people. God Bless po. Thanks

  157. Hello, please I need someone to help. I am from Venezuela
    Im planning to go to Korea in my summer vacation with my friend from Korea. My friend told me I can stay in Korea 30 days without visa. But I want to stay for 2 months. My friend want me to get a Korea Visa to stay for 2 motnhs but He doesnt know if Korea has a korea embassy. thanks

  158. Hi there! I need some help too! Just like Alex, Im planning to go to Korea this summer vacation also! to be with my boyfriend who’s working there. May kakilala po syang Filipina sa church nila doon na may alam about How to get a Tourist Visa but he needs at least a hundred thousand daw to get the VISA, diba masyadong mahal? Malaking pera na din po ‘yun kaya nanghihinayang naman ako dahil pinaghirapan nya din yun,
    Pwede nyo po ba akong matulungan kung paano makakakuha ng Tourist Visa na hindi ganoon kamahal? Thanks in advance

  159. pano poh yan ate betchay wala poh aq din nung ITR
    un lang poh ung wala aq sa mga requirements ..ANU POH GGWIN Q ?….

  160. hi ate bechay. I’m a college student and will be graduating by March 2009. My parents will be allowing me to travel to Korea when i graduate.. i will stay for a maximum of two weeks. What documents do i need for my visa? thanks.

  161. To Dear Ms. Betchay
    Thanks for creating this blogsite, I really find this informative. I was married to my husband last December and we are planning for me to be there this March. I am waiting now for my passport to be issued this mid February and after that I will go to the Korean Embassy to get Tourist Visa. I am a government employee, I just want to be with my husband cause I am missing him. I read most of the articles, by the way my husband is U.S. airforce and before I go to the embassy, I would like to know the exact requirements. I am living in the Province and currently working so as to lessen the expenses of travelling and absences from work, please help me to complete the requirements. Your help is much appreciated, thankyou in advance. I do really miss my husband.

  162. hi betchay,
    im a d-2 visa holder here sa Korea. Im planning to invite sana my gf to come here for a visit. Shes currently residing and working in a hospital in kuwait, so ang plan is after her visit to the Philippines this December, daan muna sia Korea before flyng back to Kuwait. Do you think its possible? knowing na ang daming denied ng visa..Thanks

  163. hi miss betchay,
    kauuwi ko lang from south korea. eps po ako and i voluntary leaver po ako, i mean nagresign po ako and went home.. napagod po kasi ako sa work. pero gusto ko po bumalik as tourist. i just want to visit my friends. kelan po ako pedeng magapply uli?
    jo
    lenhwanyong@yahoo.com

  164. hi
    im just curious
    kasi i see a lot of posts about it being illegal for filipinos to teach (or teach english) in korea… i was wondering bakit naman?
    i found myself here kasi im interested in visiting korea just for kicks, no plans to work there nor do i know anyone in the country :p
    any recommendations which places to visit? and nga pala, is it very hard to find a particular someone in korea?

  165. Hi Miss Betchay,
    I have a friend who wantst to visit Korea as tourist. She has a Korean friend who is inviting her to visit korea and w illing to submit all the requirements on his side.He invited her to stay with them during her stay in Korea and will shoulder all expenses. The question is my friend has no certificate of employment and ITR because she was an overseas worker for 6 yrs. she just arrived oct. last year. And she doesnt like to submit fake ITR and certificate of employment. You think its possible for my friend to get her visa application approved since she is telling the truth.

  166. hi ate betchay. ask ko lang po kung magkano naman ang dapat mong ishow up na laman ng bank account mo,kpag nagpunta ko sa korean embassy?

  167. @may >> not sure how much should be in your bank account… when i applied for the first time, i had 150K in my bank… and i have complete documents but i was denied 🙂 .. i know some people who had 5 figures but were approved…

  168. pano poh yan ate betchay wala poh aq din nung ITR
    un lang poh ung wala aq sa mga requirements ..ANU POH GGWIN Q ?….

  169. hi ms betchay,my korean husband wants to invite my brother in the philippines to work here in korea…my brother is a fisherman and wala syang experience about employment even bank account and ITR…ask ko lang po kung ano ang pwedeng gawin para makakuha cya ng visa.. imposible na po ba para sa mga ordinaryong pilipino na mkapasok s korea?

  170. hi bechay,
    i’m married to a korean and i’m preggy right now.
    I’m due next month and i wanted my mother
    to come here in Korea to help me with the baby care.
    we send all the visa requirements my mother needs
    and i hope her visa will be approved.
    how long does it take for her to process the visa?
    would it take a week?
    if she’ll get a visa, would that be a tourist visa?
    how long does it last?

  171. @keisha >> just three days… when my mother applied for her visa four years ago to attend our wedding… it’s a tourist visa and usually good for three months if she paid… but if not, you can always extend the visa at the immigration office…
    if she gets denied, ask your husband to call the embassy and appeal her case 🙂

  172. Hello there! I want to ask lang po..Last october 25 ay nag submit ako ng Application for tourist visa sa korea embassy after 7 days my application was denied….when can i apply again???Pls help me to know that and all possible things to do para makapasa……thanks a lot…..

  173. Helo there!!
    I have a problem!Hope you can help me.
    My brother give me birthday gift!It was a vacation trip in korea…but i am now her in hongkong working as domestic helper.My plan is, when im finish my contract this coming june thats the time i want to use my vacation trip.Do i need to go back in the Philippines to apply for a korean visa?Is there a possible
    that a get denied because i am only a domestic helper?What should i do?I can provide a bank account, but i dont have a work in the philippines?

  174. Hi arlene,,,really 6 months wow ang tagal pala ulit….Im nervous baka madeny n naman ako…..Ano ba mga need n documents pa para makalusot n ako sa embassy….Lahat naman ng doc alam kong tama at accept naman nila yun…no reason why nadeny pa….Sana may makatulong sa akin n masagot tanong ko….Thanks..god bless…

  175. Hello.. May friend po ako sa korea na gusto me mag tour sa kanila lahat po eh gastos nia.. ipapadala nia sakin yun invitation letter.. ano po bang dapat kung gawin para makapasa sa embassy? ano ba yung requirements na dapat kung ipasa.. kailangan ba talga na meron akung enough money sa bank? please email me asap.

  176. Greetings!
    I am a 18 y/o Filipina. My bf is Korean and he’s inviting me to come there on May this year. But my problem is I don’t have savings in the bank. He will provide all the expenses for me. Is it possible for me to gain the tourist visa? What should I do?
    Thank you very much!
    More Power!
    (Please reply to my mail)

  177. zhen>>>try mong basahin ung ibang mga comment nklagay nlhat dyan mga requirements..aq din kc mag tour sa korea w8 qlng ung invtation letter…tsaka pag 1st timer daw eh ganun tlga ma dedeny pero try mnlng ulit…zhen qng may tanong kpa poh add mnalang aq sa ym q maartz_21_07…
    w8 qkc c ate betchay sya kc sumasagot slhat ng tanong q eh ung tinanong m kc un din natanong q saknya dti..kaya alm q hehe…

  178. Arlene….Thanks sa pansin…Cge add kita sa ym ko at sana pag may time ka chat tayo para naman makakuha ako ng konting idea…..my ym id is chiver076…Have a nice day…

  179. Arlene….bata mo p pala???nabasa ko iba mong mga tanong…Same tayo n gusto mag tourist sa korea>>>Alam mo ba ang nakalagay ko sa bank nung mag aapply ako as tourist???450 thousand pero deny pa din ako…..kaya nga di ko n alam ga gawin ko para makapasa sa embassy nila…Sana may makatulong sa akong problem or share idea man lang or advice pa…God bless to all…

  180. @rissa > i’m not sure if you can apply for the visa in hongkong, it would be better if you call the korean embassy there…
    @Chie Zhen >> tama si arlene, six months bago ka maka-apply uli… even with complete documents, there is no guarantee that you will get a visa… siguro try na lang uli ;)… ako rin kasi, kumpleto lahat ng documents ko noon including an invitation from my husband and i was still working that time pero nada… na-denied ako!
    @SOYA >> you really need to submit all the documents required, because they will not accept your applications if you don’t have all the documents… unless if you’re already married, kahit wala ng documents okay lang… if you’re still a student, ask for your parents’ bank certificate and you also need to submit your school registration papers…
    @arlene >> ask for your parents’ ITR 🙂 i’m not really sure kasi they are very strict with documents… pero malay mo makalusot… and apply ka na tapos sabihin mo kung ano mangyayari
    @Ellein Vic >> you can apply for the F-1 or F-3 visa which is issued for dependents of those who are legally staying in Korea… it’s better for your husband to visit the “legal” office at their base…

  181. if you’re planning to go to korea to pay visit to your US army bf is kinda diffucult.. most of the time korean embassy was not isuing visa to those filipinas who wants to visit korea for that purpose coz they are not koreans…

  182. miss betchay, i’ve been reading ur blog and wanted to ask about my case din. we’re three from our church who are being invited by a church in Korea to visit. ung pastor namin Korean din who’s going with us din.. bale sya na ssponsor lahat together with the church in Korea who’s inviting us. what is the easiest way to get a tourist visa? my pastor said we’ll stay there for three weeks only. i am working, and my other two companions are students. do i still need to get certif of employment, ITR and the likes? or bank account for that matter?
    thanks for your reply. target date of departure is april 8.

  183. good day ms betchay,
    im very thankful 4 ds blog
    il get straight to the point here.
    me and my boyfriend plan to, if fortunate enough, to go to korea to tour and somehow earn a little bit just may be for less than 3 months.
    i know i read from this blog that its illegal but we really need to earn while having this opprtunity to get my passport stamped for another country.
    WER CAN I AVAIL OF THE VISA APPLICATION FORM?
    CAN’T IT BE DOWNLOADED FROM THE NET? IM WONDERING DOESNT THE EMBASSY HAVE A WEBSITE?
    and how much can be a show money for this for me and my boyfriend?
    and will there be any bearing if im pregnant?
    and a reason would be that we would be touring and be celebrating as this will be a “present” to me from my boyfriend.
    i hoep to hear from you very soon ms betchay. thank you very much.

  184. Thanks for this info. Sorry, i didn’t see this when i posted my comment on one of your latest posts about Korean Visa. uuhmm. kinda scary. I hope i can get a visa. i’m planning to go to korea late this year or early next year. hope my friend will give me an invitation..

  185. I am am indian national and My name is senthil Kumar. Now am staying in japn for Temporary visa ) 90days and my visa validy upto April 6th.
    Before that i want to visit Korea. How i can get visa. Please advise.

  186. hello po!!! ask ko lng bakit ba ma denied ung application mo kung kumpleto ka nman sa requirements? naku nakakatakot naman kapag ma denied ka!! mag aapply po ako ng tourist visa going to korea this coming march!!! yan lang po ba mga requirements? sigurado po ba na ala ng interview? hehehehe yung husband ko kasi eh gov’t employee sa korea preo american citizen po sya! magkano po ba ang babayaran? pls reply me as soon as possible!!!!

  187. ano po ba ung F-1 at F-3 visa? at tsaka ano po ba ung A-3? pareho po kasi kami ng sitwasyon ni ellein vic!!!!

  188. ellein vic: asan ka na ba ngayon? heheheh dito ka pa ba sa pinas? nakakuha ka na ba ng visa? pwede ba malaman ang email add mo kung pupwede!!! pareho kasi tayo ng sitwasyon! thnkz!!!

  189. Hi!
    I’ve been reading all the blogs written here in this site..I’m planning to go to Korea before June this year.I really need an advice.Makakatulong ba ang pagpunta ko ng HK,Macau and China just to get a tourist visa for Korea? I am currently employed as a Travel Marketing Officer. May i please know all the complete details of each requirements?please help me.
    I am looking forward hearing from you.
    Thank you!

  190. hi!
    i read all ur blogs here and i really learned a lot.
    pero iba kasi ang case ko sa mga nabasa ko dito.
    i have a 1 yr old baby with my korean boyfriend. he acknowledged the baby an is using his surname. he is in korea right now and he wants us (me and our baby) to go and live there. we are planning to get married there too. he will send me the invitation letter. do i need to bring my baby to the korean embassy when i apply for the visa? anong visa ang klangan kong iapply para sa akin at sa anak ko? tourist visa din ba? in my case, is it easier to get a visa?

  191. hi maia! you and your baby has to apply for tourist visa… madali ka rin siguro makakuha… naaalala ko tuloy yung isang kaibigan ko rito, inuwi niya anak niya sa pilipinas… tapos pinabalik niya ksama ng auntie niya so nakakuha ang auntie nya ng visa… tuwing uuwi aunt niya sa pinas, kasama yung bata para makabalik uli sa korea… hanggang hindi na niya kinailangan kumuha ng tourist visa para makabalik ng korea…
    hindi mo na kailangan dalhin ang bata sa korean embassy, kawawa naman… pero sa application form, may portion sa baba para sa kanya 🙂
    pagdating mo ng korea and you get married, pwede na i-register ang anak mo sa pangalan ng asawa mo… pagkakaalam ko hindi kasi pwede i-register ang bata pag hindi kasal ang mga magulang… make sure din na ire-register ang name mo sa family registry pag kasal na kayo…

  192. i applied for a korean visa las month but i got denied my travel agency told me that after 2-3 months i can apply again for a korea visa is it true that after 2-3 months i can apply again? pls. reply i need an answer ASAP tnx.

  193. @chepay >> u can apply again after six months… and going to a travel agency is not really necessary and doesn’t guarantee approval

  194. tama ka kaya sobrng sisi me at pinagkatiwala ko ung application ko sa knila deliver and pick up lng pla ung work nila pagdating sa visa application, but they told me after 3 months daw pwede nako magre apply uli. ano nga pla ung tinatatak ng embassy sa passport pag denied? ung sa sister ko kasi may stamp sya na denied, ung sakin application reciv ang stamp nya.

  195. magkano po ba dapat ang pera mo sa savings account mo n pwde tanggapin ng korean embassy as part of the rquirement?
    thanks..please help
    ria

  196. @chepay >> it’s documents received ata with the date
    @ria >> wala naman specific… kasi meron dito almost half a million pesos pera niya pero denied pa rin siya… meron naman na wala halos savings pero nakakuha… at meron din na kahit super kumpleto ng documents eh wala talaga… pag na-deny, try again 😉

  197. {quote}
    March 4th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
    hi maia! you and your baby has to apply for tourist visa… madali ka rin siguro makakuha… naaalala ko tuloy yung isang kaibigan ko rito, inuwi niya anak niya sa pilipinas… tapos pinabalik niya ksama ng auntie niya so nakakuha ang auntie nya ng visa… tuwing uuwi aunt niya sa pinas, kasama yung bata para makabalik uli sa korea… hanggang hindi na niya kinailangan kumuha ng tourist visa para makabalik ng korea…
    ate bechay,
    nabasa ko po itong post nyo about your friend.. nandito po ako sa korea i was married with a US soldier based in Camp Humphreys. Sa Seoul na din po kami ng apply ng immigrant visa sa US embassy.. Ngaun po nakatanggap po ako ng email for interview and medical exams for me and my daughter sa Seoul po gagawin ung medical exam.pero nasa pilipinas pa po ang anak ko. pwede ko po ba sya iinvite kasama ung friend ko pumunta dito para sya ang maghatid? my daughter is only 4 years old.. Please help po…
    Thank You!

  198. hi abby! you can invite your friend to bring your daughter here… just provide the documents proving that you need your daughter to come to korea… also check with the philippine government (DSWD) the documents that your friend might need in bringing your daughter here… good luck!

  199. gudpm po ms betchay! i have a filipino friend who is a factory worker in korea pero TNT na po xa dun…i would like also to work there kahit sa factory lang din,pero ayoko pong magTNT kse takot ako sa ganon..may nakwento sya sakin before na may nameet daw syang pinoy don na parang permanent na ang visa pero wla naman asawang korean,i dont exactly understand kse yung kwento nya eh,basta ang ginawa lng daw nung tao is 3x syang nagtour doon tpos naging permanent na sya as in labas pasok na lng ng korea..may mga instances po bang ganon? or totoo po kaya un? and kung totoo man po un does it mean pwede na syang magwork don legally?
    nakavisit na rin po ako sa other asian countries like japan (seminar),thailand,hongkong,singapore,malaysia,cambodia and indonesia. i would just like to ask mam if malaki po ba kaya ang chances ko na magrant din ng tourist visa sa korea? or san po kayang agency pwedeng mag apply as worker sa korea? thank u very much and hoping to hear fr u….. it’s Marty

  200. Will it really take 5-7 days for processing? Or would having a US tourist visa (the 10 year one) and a single entry Japanese transit visa speed up things up to like 3-4 days? Kasi natatakot ako na baka hindi ko makuha yung passport ko ng before the 28th… eh I’ll be flying to Japan on that day. :xxx I can only pass my application tomorrow kasi hindi pa nabibigay ng family friend ko (who’ll be sponsoring our graduation trip) yung needed documents from them. 🙁
    Would it be possible to pull-out my passport if the process would take longer than 5 days? I asked the Korean lady at the embassy through the phone kanina, but I’m a bit skeptical since her English isn’t perfect and I’m pretty sure we misunderstood each other a number of times.
    Actually it’s fine kahit na 5 days… basta 5 days lang, hindi 6. XD Anyhow, I’ve got all requirements naman… rawr. I’ve been asking the question just about everywhere. XD I’m so nervous. 😀 Hope at least one person can help. ^^

  201. ^^ it really takes a week for tourist visa processing… but you can always ask them to rush it 🙂 tell us if everything worked well…

  202. hi there!!!
    i’m a filipino and i’m already engaged to a korean.the wedding is in june 20 but he wants me to visit korea around may to meet his family,especially his father who can’t come for the wedding.i’m now studying,taking up my 3rd course and it’s really hard for me to process the visa ‘coz i’m based in cebu and the embassy is in manila.will it be possible for me to process the visa in just less than a week???
    i’m also confused ‘coz my fiance gave me requirements different from the requirements given to me by the embassy here.can you please tell me what are really the requirements for visit visa or tourist visa and what are the processess involved???
    your help will be greatly appreciated…^^
    thanks a lot!!!
    jeanny
    please send me a copy of your reply in my email>>>jeanny_edar@yahoo.com

  203. just wanna ask, if the korean embassy got all the documents including the passport, and gave a claim stub, does it mean i was given a visa or there is still a possibility that i am denied?
    waiting for your reply…

  204. @katherine >> it’s just to claim your passport… they will stamp “Documents Received” for denials and of course, visa for approval… good luck!
    @jeanny >> i’ll send you an email later 🙂

  205. good day
    what are my 2 daugthers requirements to get a tourist visa ?
    coz my korean friends want to invite them for a 1 month vaccation. they are aged 10 and 16yrs old.
    thanks .pls reply on my email add.
    d.thina@yahoo.com.ph

  206. good day.
    i just want to ask why I was denied at the Korean Embassy despite my notarized invitation, while my other team mates were approved so they’re there na in Korea leaving me here due to my denied tourist visa. is it really 6 mos after I can apply for another tourist visa ?
    please po reply to my email adD. THANKS
    cbanisa1978@yahoo.com.ph

  207. @Carolyne >> i also had complete documents before but i got denied… you’ll have to ask them about it

  208. Hello Ms. Betchay.
    God bless you with your compassion!
    Its my first time to visit your blog; I would like to praise you with your kindness.
    You are a perfect example of the saying, “SHARING YOUR BLESSINGS!”
    I would love to visit Korea this year, but with so much apprehension in acquiring a tourist visa. You are absolutely right, Betchay, there is no guarantee even though you have all the requirements…its a matter of Luck!
    So If..
    If I join or avail a korean tour or korean package in travel agency here in the Philippines, would I still be needing a korean visa for tourist?
    Thanks again Ms. Betchay. God bless you.

  209. Hi there!
    I wish you can help me with this.
    Just wanna know if it’s possible for me to go back to Korea since I had stayed there illegally for almost 3 years, but now I’m in another part of Asia. I left Korea last june 28, 2007. I am now married to a british citizen, and we’re both working in an international school. I haven’t changed my passport yet. I’m still carrying my old passport as an unmarried woman, but we’re working on changing my passport and become an independent to his passport. Is there any possibility for me to go back to korea even without changing my passport? How long should I wait before I can go back to Korea?
    Your prompt reply would be appreaciated.
    Thanks
    dale

  210. @daleanne >> it’s still possible for you to come back here… i’m not sure about the passport thing though… the really best thing for you to do is to inquire at the Embassy… sorry! i wish i could help you more.

  211. @Lee Seo >> thank you for your kind words… you’ll still need a tourist visa even if you join a tour group… but if you’re just going to Jejudo, then you won’t need a visa… good luck to you!

  212. Hi!
    I’m here in Korea right now and I got a friend who’s visiting me. I am just curious as to how much money should she have in her bank to prove that she is illegible of coming here. I would appreciate it if you can give me a quick reply. Thanks!

  213. @shyla >> one of the posters here had more than 100K in the bank but she couldn’t get a visa… she really just needs to prove that she has a stable enough job for her to go back to the philippines

  214. hi
    My present employer invited me to work in seoul korea as highway Engineer. I already signed a employment contract and visa application last week and all my original documents were already brought ot korea for visa application. Normally, how long does it take to get a working visa in korea for a direct hired OFW?

  215. @item311,
    If all your requirments are complete, at least 7 days from the day of application is enough.

  216. good day!
    i got a 30 days c-3 visa, now im here in daejeon, korea. How to extend my c-3 visa? And what are the requirements. Thank you

  217. ^^ you can extend it at the daejeon immigration office… it’s better to call them for the requirements

  218. Hi! I’m holding a C3 Visa can I possibly have a work here and apply a working visa. My wife is working here as a Kindergarten teacher. Can you help me where I can find job work here. Maybe an english language teacher or other as long as I can stay with my wife together.
    Thank you.

  219. ^^ if your wife has the proper working visa, she can apply for an F3 (dependent visa) for you… but you can’t legally work on that visa… to get a working visa, find a company that will sponsor you

  220. @sherwin >> btw, i talked to another pinay a few hours ago… she called the immigration in korea and asked for the documentary requirements for her visa extension… she said the immigration officer told her to just bring her passport, fill-up an application for extension and pay 30,000 won… that is as long as there’s no notation on her passport that she is not allowed to extend her visa 🙂

  221. By the way if your a tourist visa how long can you stay here in Korea..? Im holding a c3 Visa Shor Term visit period of sojourn is only 30 days in my visa, can I stay here more than 90 days up to 6 months? Maraming Salamat ulit. God Bless You All.

  222. ^^ we can only get up to 90 days stay as a tourist here… but try to look for the F3 visa… you could stay here up to a year

  223. hi ms betchay. i want to visit sana korea with my baby. my frend will give us request letter. papano po kaya, wat document ang ipapakita nmin. do we nid dis (1) bank certificate stating your savings, (2) certificate of employment showing your salary and position, (3) latest ITR (income tax return), wat if wala ako nun kc housewife lang po ako.i just want to visit my hubby sana na working der. and my frend will give me the request letter. nakapag invite na sya ng fren nya pero ksama kc nya anak nun nsa korea. my fren is citizen now sa korea, and she’s a teacher. pano po kaya, sa tingin mo po my pag asa kc malayo po kmi sa mnila . tatake lang po ng risk if wat will u say about my situation.
    salamat po at mabuhay.

  224. my baby is 1 year 6 mnths po. ilang days po bago malaman if denied or hinde? sana u can answer lahat po ng question ko and sana mapayuhan mo ako if wat will i do. and do i nid to tell na i will just visit my hubby o dpat d ko na lang bangitin na my asawa aq dun na working. salamat

  225. can I ask some help,,I have a US military boyfriend who stationed now in Korea,,he si coming here in Philippines to marry me,,what are the process we have to do so that I can move in Korea with him?how long it takes in the korean embassy in manila applying for a spouse visa..please help me,,thank you guys..

  226. please help me guys,,he is coming here in Philippines to marry me,,what are the steps I have to do,,getting marry here in Philippines and going to Korea with him after our wedding,,thank you so much,,hoping to hear from all of you,,

  227. @Ana >> there’s no spousal visa for those married to US military personnel in Korea… you can get an F-3 visa after coming here on a tourist visa… he should contact his legal office (they have one at the army base) for more information on marrying a foreigner 🙂

  228. Hi Ms.Betchay.Im planning to apply for a tourist visa going to korea.plano ko sana pumasok doon on a Package Tour group ng isang travelling agency.im an entrepreneur managing my own business for a year now,at registered under my name ang business.meron din po akong enough cash sa show money ko.actually one of the reason why pupunta ako ng korea is to visit and meet my filipino friend na nagtatrabaho doon as factory worker.i need to bring some important documents to him para pirmahan nia ng personal.plano ko sana mag-stay doon kahit 5days lang.actually kagagaling ko lang ng taiwan kahapon on a business trip din.at plano ko nga mag-apply na ng korean visa ko bukas.Kasi base sa mga nabasa ko earlier, aabutin ng 1week or 2weeks ang application.Sa case ko po, hindi na ako dapat abutin ng until may15 kasi ilalabas ko na yung money sa bank account ko at mawawalan na ako ng show money.Though i have a business associates na sasagot lahat ng gastos ko from airfare to hotel accomodations madala ko lang yung mga papers doon asap.
    According to a friend na me traveling for agency the best way for me to enter korea is tru Package Tour.i have no plans na mag-stay ng matagal…i just need to meet yung friend ko for some business matters…
    Is it possible po ba na makakuha ako ng visa within 7days kahit first timer ko sa korea? makakatulong po ba yung mga travel ko sa malaysia, china, and hongkong and recently twice ako nakapasok at na-grant ng visa sa taiwan (feb and apr 2008)para makakuha ng visa? kailangan po ba na meron na akong ipapakitang itinerary at date ng alis para ma-approved ako? pwede ko bang gawing reference yung pamangkin ko na nagwork din dian sa korea?hindi po ba masagwa tingnan sa passport mo kung sakaling me tatak k ng denied sa korean embassy? kasi plano ko mag-apply ng US Visa after ko makarating ng korea?
    im still hoping and praying na ma-approved ang visa ko…kasi importante na makausap ko ng personal yung taong pupuntahan ko doon…
    please i need your advise and expertise on these matters at plano ko na po mag-apply sa korean embassy bukas ng umaga…
    nawa po makarinig ako ng reply galing sa inyo asap para naman po mabawasan ang dilemma ko for how many weeks na po…
    ngayon pa lang po nagpapasalamat na ako sa reply ninyo… more power and god bless!

  229. Hi ms.betchay ako po ulit…me mga nabalitaan din po kasi ako na maraming mga businessman ang na-denied sa pagkuha ng korean visa kahit po kumpleto cla sa requirements. nakakatakot po kasi badly needed talaga na makarating ako doon kahit 3days pwede na sa akin…hope to hear a positive responds galing sa inyo.eto 2:38am na hindi p din ako makatulog iv been browsing the internet for 8hours na until matisod ko itong site mo… maraming salamat at marami kayong natutulungan sa site na ito… take care and more power!

  230. Ana after you get married with him, pwede ka ng kumuha ng tourist visa going there, just prepare documents needed at kapag nandun ka na pwede ka kumuha ng A3 visa (military dependent visa) multiple entry ito at kahit ilang days ka magstay dun. I too have military husband there in Osan ganyan lang ginawa namim..goodluck

  231. @joshua >> hindi ka naman pala first time traveler, so mas malaki chance mo makakuha ng visa… you won’t really need to join a package tour pero nasa sa ‘yo na yan… yung isang friend ko na narito ngayon (15 days siya) first time traveler siya at hindi siya gumamit ng agency pero nabigyan siya ng visa… pag nag-apply ka, basta lagay mo lang kung ilang araw ka mag-stay dito… yung visa mo sa taiwan, makakatulong yan 🙂 kasi merong counter para sa first-time traveler (considered yung mga nag-travel sa ibang bansa na walang visa like hongkong) at dun sa mga hindi first-timers (mga bansa na kailangan ng visa)…
    nung nag-apply ako ng tourist visa sa US, nasa passport ko rin yung tinatak ng korean embassy ng hindi ako bigyan ng visa… pero nakakuha ako ng 10-yr multiple sa US 🙂

  232. @joshua…you can easily can a c3 Visa(short-term visa). when I applied for short term visa..ang pinakita ko lang.. TAX Copy, Employment Certificate (if you dont have use your business permit too), Passort Copy especially kapag naka entry ka na sa other countries better. Di na ako nag show money kasi meron ako invitation letter from Korea.. 7 days ang processing.

  233. @sherwin and ms.bechay…update lang po sa mga nangyari sa pagpunta ko sa korean embassy last friday (May09,2008). Beware po sa mga nag-re2search ng infos sa internet regarding sa korean embassy,medyo matagal na pong hindi updated ang mga datas and infos nila. Much better po na magpunta po kayo ng personal sa embassy to ask for requirements at kung paano ang sistema.kasi po nangyari skin akala ko 1:30-5:30pm ang application tulad ng nkpost s mga website, at nagpunta ako, yun pala 9am-11am na ngayon.tapos pati yung visa application form na nadownload ko sa google hindi rin updated kasi 7years ago p daw yung ganong forms nila according to manong guard sa embassy. even yung form sa poea.gov.ph luma na din.FYI po sa lahat eto po ang updated requirements from the embassy to apply for a visa:
    VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR BUSINESSMAN
    -Application form (typewritten)
    -One passport size colored picture
    -Old and new passport
    -Passport (Original and photocopy of first page)
    -(Must be at least 6 months valid)
    -Business Registration Permit for SEC or DTI (photocopy)
    -Business Permit or Mayor’s Permit(photocopy)
    -PERSONAL Bank Certificate (original)
    -Individual Income Tax Return – ITR (photocopy)
    -If invited to Korea: Original Invitation Letter notarized in Korea & photocopy of the Invitor’s Passport (first page only)

  234. VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYEE
    1. Application form (typewritten)
    2. One passport size colored picture
    3. Passport Original (Old and New)
    4. Passport photocopy of First Page (6 months valid)
    5. Copy of U.S., New Zealand, Japan, Australia, Korea, and Canada Visa (if there is)
    6. Employement Certificate (Original)
    7. Personal Bank Certificate(Original)
    8. ITR (Income Tax Return) (photocopy)
    * If Personally invited to Korea: Original Invitation Letter in Korea & photocopy of the Invitor’s Passport
    * If invited by Company to Korea: Original Invitation Letter in Korea & photocopy of the Korean Company Business Permit
    Address: 18th Floor, The Pacific Star Bldg., 1226 Makati Ave., Makati City Philippines
    Tel: (02)811-6139, Fax: (02)811-8258

  235. KOREA EMBASSY ADDRESS:
    18th Floor, The Pacific Star Bldg., 1226 Makati Ave., Makati City Philippines
    Tel: (632)811-6139, Fax: (632)811-8258

  236. Hi Ms.Betchay, bukas pupunta ako ulit at aagahan ko na ng alis kasi 9am-11am ang application for Visa. Problem ko lang wala akong ITR, kasi 2years na akong freelance at self employed. Yung Business ITR ko wala pa at inaayos pa lang yung mga dapat bayaran this month… paano kaya yun…hindi ba medyo tagilid ang application ko kasi kulang ako ng isang requirements?
    please reply po, para naman maglubag ang loob ko…
    thanks po… power and Godbless!

  237. HI! I AM A FILIPINA,I WORKED IN KOREA FOR 2YEARS AS AN ENTERTAINER.I HAVE A U.S ARMY BF STATIONED IN KOREA.WE ARE PLANNING TO GET MARRIED HERE IN PHILLIPINES.IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO GO TO KOREA WITH HIM AFTER WE GET MARRIED?IS IT EASY FOR ME TO GO IF WE GET MARRIED HERE IN PHILLIPINES?PLS HELP ME AND ADVISE ME WHICH IS MORE EASIER!! PLSSS ASAP. THANK YOU

  238. @joshua..please rely on reliable information on websites only, if you are not sure please call first the embassy before you go to confirm.

  239. Ms Betchay,
    I have signed my contract with an Engineering Firm based in Seoul Korea for a contract of 1 year as a design engineer there.
    I’m still in the process of working on my working visa so at the moment I don’t have one yet.
    Should ever that everything goes well and I’m already there, I was wondering if it’s possible for my GF to get there as a tourist (to visit me from time to time). I’m willing to shoulder all her expenses in her stay in Korea.
    Have you heard of cases similar to mine?
    Your prompt reply is truly appreciated. Thanks!

  240. @Curious Engineer >> it’s possible for your GF to come here as a tourist, she just needs to prepare all the requirements… a reader had sent me an email telling me that even if her boyfriend was gonna shoulder all the expenses, the Korean Embassy still asked for her a bank certificate in her name
    @Ritchell >> try to read Baby’s post above… she’s also married to a US military personnel and has an A3 visa
    @joshua >> how did it go? when i applied for a tourist visa 5 years ago, i had to go there early in the morning as they only accept applications in the morning… the afternoon is for passport distribution…

  241. @Betchay..thank you for all the info i’ve asked before…my visa was granted for an extension additional of 60 days.

  242. hi i just wanna ask something im a filipino and i currently staying here in korea holding a c3 visa.my visa extension will end on june 10 is there any possible way to extend my visa?actually i have a korean boyfriend but he doesnt know any way to extend my visa .how about studying hangul in the university?is that possible for me to extend my visa without leaving korea?>how about marriage??im hoping for your immediate response..thanks God bless

  243. ^^ your only option is marriage… philippine passport holder can only stay in korea for 90 days (including extension) on a tourist visa, after than we need to go home and apply for another visa

  244. ask ko lng po kasi marami na po akong nabasa na may mga Filipina na nagpakasal dit o sa Pinas with their US military bf,,the after they get married here ,they go to the korean embassy in manila..Gusto ko po malaman kung ano mga requirements ne kaylangan namin ipakita sa korean embassy and how long yung process??thank you po..

  245. ask ko lng po kasi marami na po akong nabasa na may mga Filipina na nagpakasal dito sa Pinas with their US military bf,,then after they get married here ,they go to the korean embassy in manila to apply for a Visa going to Kortea then I heard that they granted a Visa because their US military husband accompany them at the korean embassy in Manila..Gusto ko po malaman kung ano mga requirements na kaylangan namin ipakita sa korean embassy and how long yung process??thank you po..and God Bless..Please help me Guys…

  246. Hi summerain,,I need your help..my BF is a US military and he currently stationed in Korea..he is going to come here in Philippines in September to get marry,,ask ko lang po,,after we get married we are going to apply for a Visa to Korea at the Korean Embassy in Manila,,what are the documents/requirements needed and what are the process and how long it will take??thank you po,,please help me summerain…
    simply_sexy3@yahoo.com

  247. Hi summerain,,I need your help..my BF is a US military and he currently stationed in Korea..he is going to come here in Philippines in September to get marry,,ask ko lang po,,after we get married we are going to apply for a Visa to Korea at the Korean Embassy in Manila,,what are the documents/requirements needed and what are the process and how long it will take??thank you po,,please help me summerain…
    simply_sexy3@yahoo.com

  248. hi ask ko ksi mg magsisix years na ksi ako d2 sa skorea as cntrct workr.plan ko ksi na maging imigrant d2 sa skorea? posible po ba? ano ho ba ang klngan gawin pra maging korean imigrant? pls reply! tnx

  249. Hello po! i have a 1 daughter to a korean.her surname is to her dad and her acknowledge her in the birth certificate but we are not yet married…im also a pinay po and for now not working cuz taking care of my baby…her dad wants us to visit him in korea cuz he don’t have time to go here cuz busy sa work…i want to know po if i still need a bank certificate from the bank to get a tourist visa?…thanks po….

  250. @ ellaine >> i think it’s best to call the embassy (scroll up for the phone number)… from what i know, if her dad had recognized her she should be in the korean family register… that’s what really counts to koreans anyway
    @ jermaine >> check http://www.hikorea.go.kr — it’s possible to get a F5 or permanent resident (or even korean citizenship) but there are restrictions on the kind of visa you’ve been holding… they don’t allow residency/immigration on E9 visa

  251. hello everybody…
    thanks for all these infos, it help me a lot to get an idea on how to get a tourist visa to korea… i havent been to korean embassy coz i dont know the requirements, but i strip on this blogsite so, thanks, it help me a lot…
    does it mean that everybody who’s needing for a korean visa processed it by themselves? or you guys go to an agency to process all your papers? coz my friend told me to go to a travel agency to process my visa…
    thanks a lot and more power…

  252. @ Lynie >> you don’t need an agency to process your visa… using an agency is also NOT a guarantee that you could get a visa… you can just go to the embassy with all your documents very early (like 7AM eventhough the embassy opens at 9AM)… they only accept applications in the morning

  253. hi there..just visited ur site,it really helps!
    sistah betchay just want to ask what is there for me to do if my private student’s parents like me to go with them in Korea?what kind of visa should i get? would it cause me a problem if ill just get a tourist visa and then just change my status when i get to stay in korea na?theyre willing to help but theyr rushin this time and just like to skip through the hassle of getting some docs or goin through the process of complicated matters…posible ba un sis?
    and what would be the papers that we need to process po? and one thing more..how many months do they give for a tourist to stay there in korea? 3 or 6?
    theyre planning to leave Phil in late June or the next month after..i hope to get ur reply soon..
    i understand u have many commitments and replies to make pa.. newey u can email me back here po janahlara@yahoo.com
    really appreciate u po..
    tke care n Godbless!

  254. @jah >> you can get a tourist visa and we can only get up to 3 months… there’s no way you can change your visa in korea unless you get married… if you’re gonna work, you’ll still need to process your visa in the philippines… you’ll need:
    – application form
    – passport, ID photos
    – certificate of employment
    – bank certificate
    – latest ITR
    – letter of invitation from korea (optional)
    they won’t accept your application unless your documents are complete…

  255. ate betchay, nakapunta na po kasi ako ng korea last year as a singer but i runaway from work and stayed with a BF der.but i went back home before my alien card expires.Im already married and hes also married but wer both separated. Is it possible for me to go back der and stay der even 1 week and go back here again..will they give me tourist visa? am i still legal to enter korea even if i runaway from work and manager kasi theyre so harsh and inhuman in working conditions in korea. pls rreply ate asap…thanks sau ha?

  256. ate betchay, nakapunta na po kasi ako ng korea last year as a singer but i runaway from work and stayed with a BF der.but i went back home before my alien card expires.Im already married and hes also married but wer both separated. Is it possible for me to go back der and stay der even 1 week and go back here again..will they give me tourist visa? am i still legal to enter korea even if i runaway from work and manager kasi theyre so harsh and inhuman in working conditions in korea. pls rreply ate asap…thanks sau ha?

  257. well, im done readin’ all info from top to bottom..
    it took several hours , but quite worth it, i guess.. ( heehee , as i took notes of impt info while reading through ) ^^
    a lot of ht ienfo was useful.. from your replies as well as the updated visa app requirements and SK Embassy’s operation hrs for visa app that joshua so patiently listed down.. ( well, appreciated ).
    anyhow, please correct me if i’m wrong, but as my original question was specifically how much the minimum for show money ( personal bank statement ) should be.. but as i read through every single entry, i’ve realized that there really isnt any amount set as a standard,by the looks of it, i so agree when you mentioned that you’re lucky if you get approved the first time.. ( this is too sad, though ).. T.T
    my fiance of over 3 years is coming for another visit on the first 2 weeks of aug and our plan , as per my future in-laws is that i’ll then go to seoul for 추석 ( from late sept til arnd early nov )… all paperwork is ready for the visa application ( including the notarized invite and page 1 of his pp).. but does anyone happen to know if i need to get a CENOMAR with my fiance for the sept trip? or do i get it alone? or do i even need it for my purpose of getting a tourist visa this time?
    i dont wanna be denied ( just like everyone else doesnt )… coz my future-in-laws have been expecting me since early this year…and ‘chusok’ is the best time to go there to meet all relatives .. heehee..
    anyhow, reading all the entries is quite disheartening, honestly, but i do hope more peeps will get their visas approved the first time around.. ( the peeps at the embassy are quite rude too if you speak to them over the phone ).. but i guess we’ll just hafta deal with it..
    thanks for reading and for your response.
    katie
    keyti_cute@yahoo.com

  258. oop! and another thing..
    does anyone here have any idea if gettin’ a tourist visa approved is easier if i applied for it at the SK Embassy with my koraen fiance? or are the odds are still the same with or without him in person?
    ( as u can see, i might apply for my visa with him when he gets here..so he can kick the asses of those peeps there that might try to deny me a visa.. kekekeke ) ^^v
    P.S.
    i’ve been meaning to quit my present job of over 2 years, but by reading the posts, it made me change my mind..but before that.. does anyone here have any idea if a certificate of employment from 2 mos before visa app can still be accepted at the SK embassy? or do they really need one from just a few days before visa application?
    this can help me decide whether to quit my job this month or not.. ^^
    thanks y’all!
    –katie–

  259. Hi everyone,
    I am leaving for Korea on the 21st of June. This is gonna be my 3rd visit to Korea. However, this time I was given only a 15-day travel VISA. I wonder if I can have it extended for a month or two. My boyfriend who is korean would like me to stay there longer. Do you have any information as to what I need to do? Looking forward to your prompt reply.
    Thank you very much and more power!

  260. Hi.
    I am planning on visiting my bf who is an OFW in Korea this December since he can’t come home. He works as an engineer in DSEC. According to your post, I must submit the following documents:
    (1) bank certificate stating your savings
    (2) certificate of employment showing your salary and position
    (3) latest ITR (income tax return)
    (4) your passport and a copy
    (5) visa application form
    (6) 2×2 pictures
    (7) a notarized invitation letter.
    Now, I am sure I can provide most of the items listed above since my bf intends to have me invited by one of his Korean friends. However, I am in doubt if I can provide item 3 which is the ITR since I switched jobs in one taxable year. I am going to try and see if I can still file an ITR for the year 2006 (when I only have one employer) even if it’s past April. In case I am not permitted to do this by the BIR, is there any other document I can substitute for the ITR (like the BIR 2316 form)? What do you suggest I do?
    BTW, I only intend to stay for 10 days. Thank you.

  261. Hi Ms. Betchay, this blog of yours is really helpful…
    We are planning to go Seoul next month,it will be a family vacation. My husband is a businessman, he is of pakistani passport with a permanent residence here in philippines. He have business in their country. I myself also have a business here. With those requirements above, we can provide it.
    The only question will be, Is it compulsary to have an invitation? My husband have a pakistani friend and a permanent resident who have business there can send us invitation. However, i dont like to disturb him much. Is it okay even we dont provide this invitation letter?
    Anyway, we will just be there not more than 2 weeks. My husband travels around asia and north africa. Me naman travelled in 4 asian countries where most of my stays are only for few days lang.
    Do you think we have a good chance of obtaining a tourist visa? We will bring our 2 year old daughter with us.
    Will be very happy to receive your reply…
    Salamat in advance

  262. hi good day,
    this website is full of information about going to korea. is it possible to apply for extension of visa in the Philippines right away or it must be when you’re in korea already?

  263. ^^ you can only extend when you’re in Korea… just go to the immigration office with your passport

  264. How much does the extension of visa cost? how long is the process? what does the immigration officer ask? what is the best reason to be granted the extension?
    thank you po and more power!

  265. @louie >> it takes just minutes for the extension, 30,000 won… i don’t know what the immigration officer asks but i don’t think you have to worry about it if the extension is for a good reason 😉
    @lou >> there is no same sex marriage in korea… however, a korean citizen who’d had a physical sex change could legally change his/her sex, i.e. male/female… like in the case of Harisu… she used to be a man, had a sex change and is now considered a woman… she got married last year to a man

  266. hi everyone! im 22, a fresh graduate and i have a US ARMY bf stationed in korea and weve had this relationship for almost 4 years now.. he came here last may4-june1 he proposed to me but its unofficial yet kc wala pa ung ring but anyways i said yes and we plan to marry in korea… ive read through your blog and found most of the docs. and stuffs that i needed except for the ITR..and as for my bank cert/statement my bf told me i should go get a bank account so he can wire transfer enough show money.. my bf told me he will assume the full responsibility with regards to the expenses… ive even thought of going through an agency coz of the whole confusion i got and im scared that i might get denied and i really want to be with him.. im thinking of staying for a week or 2 with 100,000+php as bank statement… but im scared that the consul might ask me where i got the amount since im unemployed and no source of income…:( im hoping to be in korea by august…
    please everyone…anyone… help……… im really desperate……=(

  267. Hi Ms. Betchay! I really need your help..I think your the only person who could give me a good advice. My filipino fiance is currently working in Korea. We’re planning to get married next year here in the Philippines.In order for us to properly plan for our wedding, he wants me to visit him in korea this coming august.He can’t come home easily because he can’t afford to have leave of absence from his job.The problem is I’m not employed right now and I can’t show a certificate of employment and ITR. I have an upcoming exam for cgfns(qualifying exam for Nurses to apply for immigrant visa in US) this coming november(same year) to be held in Cebu, Philippines. Is it alright if I will just present my documents from cgfns and a certification from a review center that I enrolled for October review classes? to prove to the korean consul that I really have to go back to the Philippines by the month of October to attend for a review classes and to take an exam?Also Ms. Betch, I need to know the amount needed in my bank account as my proof of income.That’s all ms. Betchay!
    Your response will be highly appreciated! Thank you so much!

  268. Ms. Betch I forgot to mention.The visa that I want to apply for Korea is a tourist visa.
    Thank you again!!!

  269. hi grace,
    u asked help from anyone..so i guess i can tell you what i’ve read thru the blog//

    > first, you might wanna ask your BF to prepare and send you an invitation( stating sponsorship, etc )..(im sure that’ll be of help, though betchay previously mentioned that it’s optional )
    > after gettin that..then im sure you can bring the requirements to the embassy and if they ask you about the shw money and all.. you might wanna tell them honestly and that this wire transfer you have on record is part of the sponsorship.. i guess that might work..
    im not saying it will..but i guess it’s gonna be worth a try..
    good luck!!
    ***FYI:: im pretty sure betchay might wanna add something more specific.. but you might wanna start preparing the docs. *.^v

  270. thanx so much katie… i already told my bf to prepare with the invitation and stuffs…. ill start finishing my requirements.. thanks again…^.^

  271. hi ms.betchay..
    i am happy to have stumbled upon your site and its good to know there are people here with a good hearts who take time out to help out our filipino kababayans who have queries about visa applications to korea..
    I would like to apply for a tourist visa at least for two weeks–i have read the requirements you posted here BUT im currently not working( so i cant show an employments ceritficate) but i have a medicalclinic which i rented out to a friend..My american fiancee who’s in the USmilitary base there in korea would want me to visit him before december 2008.. and perhaps get married there.. im filipina, 37 yrs old ,single mom… what are the documents would i need from the phillipines to bring to korea to get married..can we get married at the US embassythere( HE is an american)? IF im not employed but have a clinic ..would that be enough to replace employment certificate?or i have a gift shop bussiness? what if i join a tour group would that be better so i wont need an invitation? MY FIANCEE is willing to send me an invite and affidavit of support(WHO SHOULD NOTARIZE THIS–COMMANDER of us military base or lawyer fROM korea?)But reading your blogs its seems that an invite, nor a affidavit of support is not a guarantee for a TOURIST VISA!!
    REGARDING the bank certificate would they require three months active bank account(OPENED AT LEAST THREE MONTHS PRIOR TO YOUR APPLICATION)just like req. when you apply for US VISA?..may i present a join bank account with my mom OR WOULD THEY NEED JUST MY BANK ACCOUNT? THANK you FOR your time ma’am …hope to receive a reply from you the soonest possible time..or pls email me at my email add.. ALSO to anyone who might know answers to my questions id be very pleased to receive suggestions from you…
    SINCERELY,
    JASMINE

  272. Hi ms.bechay?
    I will be going to Korea for a package tour. It will be shouldered by my employer, however I believe that the no.of days to be given by the Korean embassy will only be 15 days. But i’m planning to extend my staying. My employer told me that they will be the one to make a letter addressed to the immigration in korea to request for my extension to do some business transaction, and the company will be the one to shoulder all my expenses. Could that be a valid reason?
    or is it good to say that i enjoy staying there that’s why I want to extend?but they might ask if i have enough money to stay longer.
    which is better the first one or the second one.
    Thank u po!

  273. ^^ You can have your visa extended and I think the first reason is better IMO (if they ask you, because they sometimes don’t).
    Please don’t overstay your visa. It might hurt your future. It’s not just worth it.

  274. please my name is Martins please i am from Africa (Nigeria), i will like you to explain more to me about C3 visa and what it will require to enter into south korea with it. you can publish it and also send me the answer to my email.

  275. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    I’m planning to visit Korea this Sept. would like to ask if where can I get the application form? Many thanks for your usual assistance=)

  276. @louie >> Dress presentably. People here judge you by your appearance.
    @jaime >> they’re available at the Korean Embassy, i’ll send you one online so you could see how it looks like
    @Martins >> i think it would be best to check the Korean Embassy website in your country… there are different requirements for different nations

  277. Can you send me the link for the application form so that I have it already once I’ll go to the embassy. Many thanks for your unwavering support Betchay=)

  278. just a suggestion to all concern. For all visa concerns, if you need factual answers, it is appropriate that you consult directly the visa section of the Korean Embassy in Manila. I appreciate the advices Ms Betchay is giving to many people, regarding requirements, but she is not in any way connected with the Korean Embassy nor any office for that matter, and is not receiving any compensation for such act. So for most of you, your questions and request can be easily answered by just “simply” making an effort to read appropriate websites (or make a call) such as the Korean Embassy and discuss your specific problems with the authorized people from that office. i find it weird that even application forms are being asked in this site.
    “bato bato sa langit, tamaan wag magalit”