✈️ Why Visit South Korea in 2025?
South Korea continues to be a favorite destination for Filipino travelers thanks to its vibrant culture, K-dramas, K-pop, food, fashion, and historical landmarks. With travel back in full swing, it’s the perfect time to plan your 2025 South Korea trip — but first, you’ll need a visa!
📋 Types of South Korean Visas for Filipinos
For most Filipino tourists, the visa needed is the C-3 Tourist Visa. Other types include:
- C-3-9: Short-term general visa (tourism, visiting friends, etc.)
- C-3-1: Short-term business visa
- Multiple-entry visa: For frequent travelers or those eligible under certain qualifications
🧾 South Korean Tourist Visa Requirements (2025)
Here’s a checklist of the basic requirements for Filipino applicants as of 2025:
✅ Basic Requirements:
- Visa Application Form – Fill out the South Korea Visa Application Form
- 1 Passport-sized Photo (white background, taken within 6 months)
- Original Philippine Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months
- With at least 2 blank pages
- Photocopy of Passport Bio Page
- Original and photocopy of PSA Birth Certificate (if first-time traveler)
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
✅ Financial Documents:
If Employed:
- Original Certificate of Employment (with position, salary, and length of employment)
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Bank Certificate
- Bank Statement (last 3 months)
If Self-employed or Business Owner:
- DTI/SEC Business Registration
- Mayor’s Permit
- Latest ITR
- Bank Certificate and Statement
If Student:
- School Certificate
- School ID
- Affidavit of Support from parents or sponsor
- Parent’s financial documents
🧳 Optional but Helpful Documents
- Certificate of Leave of Absence (for employees)
- Travel Itinerary (especially for first-time applicants)
- Hotel and flight bookings (optional but good to include)
💸 South Korea Visa Fees for Filipinos (2025)
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (PHP) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry (59 days or less) | Short stay | FREE (if applying directly) |
| Multiple Entry | 1–5 years | PHP 4,050 |
| Processing Fee (via agency) | Varies | PHP 1,000–2,500 |
Note: Visa is free if you apply directly at the Korean Embassy, but due to high demand, most applications must now be coursed through accredited travel agencies.
🏢 Where to Apply – Korean Visa Application Centers in the Philippines (2025)
As of 2025, Korean visa applications are handled through KVAC (Korea Visa Application Center):
Metro Manila
- KVAC Taguig – Brittany Hotel, BGC
- KVAC Makati – Address TBA (Check latest updates on KVAC Official Website)
Cebu
- Newly opened KVAC Cebu branch to serve Visayas & Mindanao applicants
⏱️ Visa Processing Time (2025)
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Regular Tourist Visa | 10–15 working days |
| Multiple-Entry Visa | 10–20 working days |
| Via Agency | 7–10 working days (depending on agency) |
💡 Tips to Get Approved
- Submit complete and truthful documents – Double-check everything!
- Show strong financial capacity – A healthy bank balance helps.
- Have travel history – Previous travels to OECD countries (Japan, US, etc.) can boost your chance.
- Don’t submit fake documents – This can lead to blacklisting.
- Be consistent – Information on your application form and documents should match.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Is a visa required for Filipinos visiting Korea in 2025?
Yes, Filipino passport holders still need a visa to enter South Korea.
🔹 Can I walk in and apply directly?
No. As of 2025, walk-in applications are not allowed. You must book an appointment and apply via a KVAC-accredited agency.
🔹 How much money should I have in my bank?
There’s no official amount, but ideally at least PHP 50,000+ for a short trip. More if traveling longer or with family.
📍 Final Thoughts
Applying for a South Korean visa as a Filipino in 2025 is simpler than ever — as long as you’re prepared. Submit complete documents, choose a trusted travel agency if needed, and follow the guidelines strictly. Once approved, you’re one step closer to enjoying the sights of Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and more!
📌 Don’t Forget to Bookmark and Share!
Share this 2025 South Korean Visa Guide with your fellow K-drama and K-pop fanatics! 🇰🇷💜
PADDYLAST INC. 