C-3 Short-Term Visit (General)
Tourists, visitors to family or friends, and people attending short events or meetings in Korea.
The C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) is a South Korean visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry (US$90 multiple-entry)) and processing time (~1-2 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) is for
Tourists, visitors to family or friends, and people attending short events or meetings in Korea.
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term D/E/F status from inside or outside Korea.
C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) - eligibility criteria
- Valid passport with adequate remaining validity
- Proof of purpose (tourism, visiting, meetings)
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
- Confirmed onward or return travel
- No intention to work or settle
C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) (South Korea) is ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry (US$90 multiple-entry), with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Korean embassy or consulate (or visa-free / K-ETA for eligible nationals) |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days per entry |
| Work rights | No paid work permitted |
| Study rights | No formal study; short courses only |
| Government fee | ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry (US$90 multiple-entry) |
| Processing time | ~1-2 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term D/E/F status from inside or outside Korea. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term D/E/F status from inside or outside Korea.
Many applicants also compare K-ETA · Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), C-4 · C-4 Short-Term Employment, H-1 · H-1 Working Holiday. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) pitfalls we fix
C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) - frequently asked questions
How much does the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) cost?
The C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) government fee is ~₩53,000 / US$40 single-entry (US$90 multiple-entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General) lead to permanent residence?
No direct PR pathway; switch to a long-term D/E/F status from inside or outside Korea.
Can I work on the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General)?
Work rights: No paid work permitted.
Who can apply for the C-3 Short-Term Visit (General)?
Tourists, visitors to family or friends, and people attending short events or meetings in Korea.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority