cover letter sample for korean visa application

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Psychotherapy, personality, cover letter for a korean student visa(4 samples).

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Samples of cover letters for a Korean student Visa

When applying for a Korean student Visa, your cover letter is an opportunity for you to show your recipient why you qualify. The best format for writing a cover letter is:

Korean Embassy or consulate details in India

[A minimum 3-4 lines on why you chose your specific program and educational institution, plus why you want to study in Germany]

[One paragraph on what officials can expect from inside the application packet. It is suggested to put the documents down as bullet points]

Your full name

[One paragraph on why you have chosen your program, and your goals; provide a brief synopsis of your academic history in India, and include what you believe you can learn as a full time student from the country]

Your address

Name and address of where the application is being sent (typically the relevant >Embassy or consulate for your application in India)

[One paragraph on your educational background and desire to study at your particular program and what you are hoping to accomplish]

[One paragraph on how you intend to fund your tuition, stay and living expenses. >Include also anything that your program is providing you, such as accommodation or benefits]

[One short paragraph on what documents the officials can expect to find in this packet]

[Signature]

Embassy of South Korea,

                                 Subject: Request for a Long-Term Student Visa   (Up to 3 years validity)  

I am Mr #####,  holding an Indian passport R54546, Date of Birth 28/04/1987 traveling to South Korea for pursuing a Ph.D., in ###### UNIVERSITY, Address SOUTH KOREA for a period of 3 YEARS.  We received all the necessary documents which are required for a visa from the university.  I am planning to move to south Korea by this month’s end approximately by (Date ) based on visa acceptance. And my date of return would be September 2020.

Thanks and Regards

Email: ######”

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the elements of a cover letter.

The Four Parts of a Cover Letter

Is it worth applying for a Korean passport?

The advantages of becoming a Korean citizen and holding an Irish passport include: 

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

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Travel with Karla

the teacher who loves to travel

A Freelancer’s Sample Letter for Visa Application

Freelancers like me dread applying for visa. We often think that we won’t get approved because we can’t provide some requirements like ITR, Company ID, and Certificate of Employment. I tried my luck and wrote a letter to the Korean Embassy explaining why I can’t provide the requirements.

Here’s a sample letter for Korean Embassy:

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1630

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is Karla _____ and I am requesting a tourist visa to South Korea. I plan to travel to South Korea this July 2019.  I lived in Seoul for two years as a missionary. To be specific, I was a part of the English Ministry of _____. I taught the church members on how to speak English. This time, I plan to go back to South Korea as a tourist. I want to visit and promote some tourist destinations and Korean drama filming locations.

Part of the tourist visa application is to show an Income Tax Return (ITR), which unfortunately I do not possess. Hence, I am writing this letter. The reason I do not have an ITR is because I am a freelance travel blogger (www.travelwithkarla.com) and an English Proficiency Guide at _______. I travel to different places and write about them. Moreover, I also conduct online lectures on how to pass the IELTS and TOEFL exams.

I can give you an assurance that my finances right now are enough to cover my 5 days trip in South Korea. I was able to prepare an enough amount for my 5 days trip. Please see my bank certificate for reference. I am very positive that this amount is good enough for my trip.

In addition, I also attached an invitation letter from _____, the Director of Korean Cultural Center & Counsellor for Culture and Public Relations of the Korean Embassy. I was invited to be a part of the Honorary Reporters of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. I believe that this trip will really help me in raising awareness of Korea in the Philippines. My 100,000 followers across social media accounts are excited to follow my adventures in Korea. I’m going to make a lot of travel guides after this trip.

I am really hoping that you would grant my request for a tourist visa. Hoping for your kind consideration.

Sincerely, Karla __________ Applicant

Here’s a sample letter for Japanese Embassy:

Embassy of Japan in the Philippines 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, 1300

My name is Raymond _______ and I am requesting a tourist visa to Japan. I plan to travel to Osaka this May 2019.  I am seriously excited to see the beautiful sights of the city and move my childhood dream into reality. I was exposed to different anime all created in Japan since I was a kid. This exposure to anime is pushing me to visit your wonderful country.

Part of the tourist visa application is to show an Income Tax Return (ITR), which unfortunately I do not possess. Hence, I am writing this letter. The reason I do not have an ITR is because I am a freelance Physical Therapist and a board review Educator. I conduct lectures in review centers for local and US PT board examinations. I also treat patients with disability at their own houses.

I can give you an assurance that my finances right now are enough to cover my 5 days trip in Osaka. I was able to prepare an enough amount for my 5 days trip. Please see my bank certificate for reference. I am very positive that this amount is good enough for my trip.

I have traveled to the United States of America twice already as a tourist visa holder. My first one was last January 2017 in Hawaii and the second one was just last January 2019 in Philadelphia, PA. Please check my passport for reference. It has been my life goal to visit different countries and that includes the wonderful Japan.

Sincerely, Raymond ______ Applicant

I and my friend Raymond got our visas approved using the letter above. I hope you can also get yours approved using those guide. If you have any questions, leave a comment below.

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22 comments.

• Pingback: South Korea resumes issuing tourist visas - Travel with Karla

I’m curious if multiple visa can be granted if unable to provide ITR and give a letter of explanation… would you know? ? I applied for my 2nd Japan visa last year but around that time I was working remotely already so I asked for sponsorship from my sister. I was not given multiple visa (despite being approved prior with a japan visa) ?

YAY! This would be helpful for me for my application after lockdown. Badly want to travel to Korea for a long time now. I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR YEARS *fingers crossed

this is a good share. Currently, we have an increasing freelancers and digital nomads, and having an ITR is not priority, however, is noteworthy on the letter. I am sure that this article would have helped lots of pinoy travellers to experience South Korea and Japan.

This is so helpful since I also dont have ITR. Papano pag dependent ka ng parent? Pero me ipon ka din as freelancer?

• Pingback: Japan Visa Requirements 2019 + Tips - Travel with Karla
• Pingback: Korean Visa Requirements 2019 + Tips! - Travel with Karla

Thanks for sharing your reassuring tips for those who might be worrying about securing a SoKor visa. It would be a shame if they didn’t try simply because they thought they didn’t have the proper docs.

This is great, Karla! Perfect for freelancers and those who works online.

Thank you this is very helpful to use as a guide in makinh our own letters. There are a lot of requirement when applying for visas and sometimes they’re just impossible to get. This means, there’s still a chance tho!!

Thanks for sharing this letter (ma copy nga hehe) I remember ung nag tourist visa din ako sa singapore though complete requirements naman ako pero grabe yung embassy natin talagang last 10 seconds bago kami pinalabas sa embassy office.

this post is helpful for all the freelancers. congrats on the visa and enjoy your SK trip this July! lapit na!

Thank you for this. Will keep this in mind when we decide to travel to South Korea.

Great help for all the freelancers out there who really wants to travel. You provided pa sample letters. Nice!

So generous of you to share these sample letters! These are such a great aid and guide.

Wow.. Pwede pala to.. Thanks for sharing this.. Sobrang informative and helpful nito..

Wow! What a relief! I am really worried about my upcoming visa application and I have been thinking about it for 6 months now! I am really problematic if I will be approved or not. But with your blog, I am positive that I have a chance to be approved. Me and my boyfriend are planning to visit Korea together this September. I have been to Korea last year as a tourist too but I was employed during that time. And we also purchased the ticket when we are still employed. We did not expect that there’s some issue on our company before and we decided to resign and be an online freelancer. So imagine the pain of thinking that we will be denied? Haha but thanks to you Ms. Karla! Can I ask you something? What did you put on your visa application form? Did you choose “others” then wrote freelancer? What about the contact details of the company? My online client can’t give me a contact details because we only communicate via email. I am looking forward for your answer! You are a big help Ms. Karla! Godbless.

Yup, checked “others”, then I wrote freelancer. For contact number, I just used mine. Good luck on your application. 🙂

Thank you so much Ms. Karla. One last question, my client is based in UK. Shall I put the company name and the UK address too? But I will put my contact number instead, do you think that will be a problem? What did you put on your application Ms. Karla on the co. name and address? I’m sorry, I have a lot of questions.haha. Thank you so much for your reply!

This will be a great help to get every applicant’s visa approved. I can refer to this if I wish to travel to SoKor someday.

Hi Ms. Karla! Did you attached proof of income when tou applied? I am an online freelancer too and I will apply a tourist visa next month. Thanks!

Hi Mindy, I just submitted my bank statement and bank certificate.

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A Freelancer’s Guide for a Korean Visa without ITR 2019

Are you a Filipino freelancer who’s planning to travel to South Korea real soon? Let me share with you some alternative ways and few tips on how to apply and have a greater chance of getting your tourist visa approved. And make your South Korea travel goal come to life!

Just recently, I traveled in South Korea with friends. We had the best time of our lives in our six days of discovering the beautiful city of Seoul. But before all came to pass, I faced few struggles with my visa application. Because I’m a freelancer, I had no Income Tax Return (ITR) or Form 2316 to present which is one of the required documents in applying for a visa.

Knowing that incomplete requirements would most likely be denied — I was a little anxious about it. But how did I get a visa approval from the Korean Consulate without an ITR? Here’s an easy guide on how to apply for a South Korean tourist visa and get a higher chance of approval.

How to Apply for a Tourist Korean Visa

Prepare the necessary documents.

• Application Form — you can download a copy of the form here .
• 1 piece of Passport size colored picture
• Original Passport (should be valid for more than 6 months)
• Photocopy of Passport Bio-page (page 2)
• Original & Photocopy of valid visa/s and arrival stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years (if applicable only)
• Original Certificate of Employment[Must include applicant’s position, date hired, compensation, office address, HR landline number (cell-phone number is not allowed), HR e-mail address]
• Original Personal Bank Certificate(Must include account type, current balance, account opening date, ADB)
• Bank Statement(Original or certified true copy of the bank statements/passbook for the last 3 months)
• Photocopy of ITR (Income Tax Return) or Form 2316
• Copy of PRC Card or IBP Card (if applicable only)

Check out full details of the visa requirements for different categories here .

Submit your visa application

In submitting your visa application, you need to arrange your documents according to how the list of requirements is chronologically ordered.

There are two options on how to submit your visa application:

• Through a travel agency . Travel agencies would require you to pay around PHP 1,000 – 2,000 for the processing fee. The same requirements should be complied. There are 35 accredited travel agencies you could choose from. You can check the full list here .
• Personal Submission (applicable only to those applying in Cebu). You can personally submit your documents for the visa application at the Korean Consulate here in Cebu. You may refer to the address and contact number provided below. No payment needed and it’s fast and easy . The receptionist of the building at the ground floor will require you to present one valid ID before you could proceed to the 12 th floor. When you reach the Korean Consulate’s office, a guard on duty will greet you. You will be asked for what’s your purpose of visiting and then a priority number will be given. Your phone’s camera will also be sealed while you’re inside the premise. It would take for about 15-20 minutes to process the submission of your documents.

Address of Consulate in Cebu 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo Cebu City

Contact Information Tel: (63-32) 231-1516(9)Fax: (63-32) 231-2950E-Mail: [email protected]

Starting April 1, 2019 , visa processing period will be 7 working days due to increase in number of Korean visa applicants. Visa Fee for 59 days (or less) stay in Korea will be free of charge. For 60 to 90 days stay in Korea — visa fee is PHP 2,000. Note: Submission time for visa application is from 9:00AM to 11:00AM only (Mondays–Fridays) except holidays.

What to do when you don’t have an ITR?

I’ve been in the freelancing industry for quite some time and truth be told, most freelancers are not tax payers. I’m one of those who weren’t declaring income and filing appropriate taxes to the government. I had long been planning to register in BIR, but I always put it on hold. Not until early this year, I’ve felt the need to do so.

Knowing that I have a couple of international travels this year (wherein one of these was in South Korea), I’ve had to establish a good personal background. So, I registered myself as a professional tax payer just February of this year in BIR and started paying tax.

As freelancers, we’re enjoying lots of perks — decent pay, freedom to work anywhere and anytime as long as there is a good internet connection. We can easily travel as much as we want, whenever we want to. There’s no problem traveling within the Philippines. Of course, we’re on our comfort zone. You just bring one or two valid IDs and you’re set to explore the country.

But, traveling internationally is a different story. Especially to those countries which require a visa. There are certain rules to follow and requirements to comply. One of the most basic and important visa requirements is the Income Tax Return (ITR). So, what should you do when you don’t have an ITR for your visa application?

Write a cover letter

A cover letter is written when you’re lacking one of the requirements. This is to explain why you are not able to submit the said requirement. Your cover letter should contain, but not limited, to the following details:

• Your purpose of writing a cover letter.
• Reason why you are unable to present the said required document.
• Describe the nature of your job as a freelancer.
• You can mention your flight details , hotel/airbnb booking details , Klook vouchers . You can even mention who you are traveling with, if you’re traveling in a group.
• Indicate all supporting documents you will provide.
• Explain your desire of traveling to their country — why you have chosen to travel to South Korea.
• Be sincere in your letter that you are returning to the Philippines within the specific travel period.

Note: Keep your cover letter short and simple. You can contact me if you want me to make a cover letter for you @Php350 only. HAHA!

Disclaimer: My cover letter doesn’t really guarantee that your visa application will be approved. The approval of your visa application still depends on the Korean Embassy or Consul’s judgment.

Submit all supporting documents

It is not necessary, but I strongly suggest that you submit additional documents to somehow support and strengthen your visa application. Submit all the supporting documents you have mentioned in your cover letter. Here is the list of supporting documents I’ve submitted for my visa application:

• Certificate of Earnings from Upwork (or any Freelance Marketplaces you belong to).
• Certificate of Registration from BIR and BIR Payment Form No. 0605 (if available).
• Flight details, Airbnb and Klook bookings (or any bookings you made in advance for your trip in S. Korea).

Friendly Tips for Traveling Freelancers

Register your freelancing job in bir.

If you are a freelancer with a heart of a traveler, I highly recommend you register as a professional tax payer in BIR just like what I did. If freelancing is your only source of income — you better register as early as possible if you are planning to go on a trip outside the country.

Why do I say so? Maybe, you’ll think it’s not really needed, you don’t want to undergo the tedious registration process, or you just don’t feel like paying taxes at all. Regardless of your reason, it is our responsibility as a Filipino citizen who’s earning an income to pay taxes to the government. BIR should give me commissions for this! HAHA

Also, there are few benefits of having an ITR — one of these is for the smooth processing of your international travels. Though I don’t have an ITR yet (since I only registered a couple of months ago), I have a strong feeling if it weren’t for the certificate of registration and the payment form from BIR that I’ve submitted for my visa application, I would possibly be denied.

Visit:  https://vabootcamp.ph/blog/the-simplest-method-on-how-to-register-as-a-freelancer-in-bir/

Secure a certificate of employment / contract from your clients

Certificate of employment or a contract is another important document for your visa application. If possible, you may request from your client to get one.

Deposit sufficient funds on your savings bank account

Make sure that you have sufficient funds to convince the consulate or embassy that you can finance all the expenses for your travel. Mostly, they require you to provide a bank certificate and/or statement of account.

For the Korean visa application, they require you to submit a bank statement for the last 3 months and a bank certificate that shows the account type, current balance, account opening date, and average daily balance (ADB). The older your savings account with more deposit transactions; and no or less withdrawal — the better.

Just a little warning, don’t deposit big amount of funds (i.e. 50K PHP) on your account few days before you request to print your bank certificate or statement. It would only reveal that you intended to deposit this amount as show money. This might affect the approval of your visa application.

To wrap it up, all you must do is prepare and take proper actions. Remember, you can’t travel to South Korea without a visa. So, start applying one month before your travel date and give yourself ample time to comply if the consul will ask for additional requirements.

Just follow these simple steps:

(1) prepare and submit all the required documents;

(2) write a cover letter if you lack a requirement and submit all other supporting documents; 

(3) make sure to provide an impressive financial overview;

(4) justify your intention of traveling to their country and that you’re returning to the Philippines; and lastly,

( 5) add faith and LOTS of prayer! Ask your Priest or Pastor! Kidding! But would be good as well, right?This simple guide doesn’t really guarantee that your visa application will be approved. The approval of your visa application still depends on the Korean Embassy or Consul’s judgment. I hope you found this post helpful. God bless on your visa application! 

Our 7D6N ‘ish Itinerary and Budget in Seoul 

About THE AUTHOR

I am a Christian Freelance Website designer & developer based in the Philippines. Also, one of the “Top Rated” Web designers on Upwork that you can hire. I’m trying to live a digital nomad lifestyle, traveling while doing freelance jobs in between.

I design modern, easy-to-use, Thrive Themes, Elementor Pro WordPress websites. I am also a consistent Top-Rated Website WordPress designer and developer in Upwork (The largest online talent solution connecting businesses and skilled professionals). 

Glengallarde 2016 - 2022 © All Rights Reserved. matthew 6:33

Korean Visa Application Requirements for Filipino Tourists in Manila, Philippines (Single / Multiple Entry)

by Aileen Adalid Visa Guides & Immigration , South Korea 302 comments

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LATEST UPDATE: The Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in BGC will now be handling all Korean visa-related applications and the release of passports instead of the South Korean embassy (the embassy will no longer process visa applications except for special cases). The good news? There’s NO need to book an appointment and you can just walk in to KVAC directly to lodge your application.

I’m sure that a majority of us Filipinos have encountered Korean influences at some point in our lives, may it be through K-Pop , K-dramas ( Koreanovelas ), cosmetic products, or food (among many others).

Due to these things as well as other factors, South Korea has remained a dream destination for many — but for those who want to make it a reality, there is the question of how our weak Philippine  third world passports can fare when it comes to entry or visa matters. Don’t fret though because applying for a South Korean visa is easy and also FREE!

RELATED READ : – South Korea Itinerary Travel Guide – How to Explore Nami Island, Petite France, and More! – How to Rent a ‘Hanbok’

Looking for Seoul Itinerary Ideas?

Come and check out my ‘ DIY Seoul Itinerary Guide ’ post which features detailed day-by-day activities that you could do, no matter the length of your stay!

The application process is SO simple and starting this 2018, the Korean Embassy is coursing applications through travel agencies (much like how the Japan Embassy does). As such, with the help of this guide, let us make your South Korea travel dreams come true!

…But first, a disclaimer :

NO ONE  can give you a guarantee of your South Korean visa’s approval: not even a lawyer, a consultant, a travel agent, or an embassy employee. Anyone who says otherwise is most likely going to be a scammer. That being said, what I can offer you here is a comprehensive guide with helpful tips to increase your chances of getting that South Korean tourist visa.

Top photo by: Shutterstock

Table of Contents

ApplicationProcess for South Korean Visa

Step 1: determine the type of south korean visa that you need to apply for.

There are, of course, various types of South Korean visas out there that you can apply for: a visa for studying, a visa for business, a visa for joining family, etc.

For this particular guide though, I will only be discussing the requirements for a tourist visa  since it’s an experience that I’ve gone through myself.

If, however, you have a different situation or purpose of visit, it’s best that you contact the South Korea Embassy for more information and for the complete requirements. You can do this via telephone ([02] 856-9210, local no. 270 or 500) or via email:  [email protected]

– – –

Step 2: Prepare the required documents for your application

Depending on your circumstance, click the symbol ‘ + ‘ below to view the corresponding requirements for each section. Make sure that you have authentic, original, and complete documents at all times!

(Section A)  South Korea Tourist Visa WITHOUT  Any Guarantor/Sponsor

• Philippine Passport.  Make sure that your passport is valid for more than 6 months prior to your intended travel date, it has your signature, filled out the emergency contact page, and has at least two (2) blank pages. .
• Photocopy of current Philippine Passport bio page.   This is found on page 2 (the part where your passport photo and other info are shown). .
• If applicable, previous Philippine Passport(s) .  You only need to submit this if you have traveled abroad within the last 5 years. .
• Doing this will help expedite the processing time of your visa.
• When I say ‘original’, this means that you will have to submit the passport(s) that contains the OECD visas and arrival stamps (no matter if they are your old or current passport[s]).
• Only used visas are counted.
• It is said that you are NO longer required to submit an ITR if you have traveled at least once to OECD member countries in the past 5 years — or have traveled to South Korea for more than two times within the last 4 years. .
• Both the IBP (Integrated Bar of the Philippines) and PRC (Professional Regulation Commission) cards are identification cards issued by professional regulatory bodies. The former is for lawyers and the latter is for certified professionals such as nurses or engineers who’ve passed their respective licensure exams. .
• Download the application form here: PDF .
• Print the application form on an A4-sized paper.
• Do NOT write outside the boxes and do NOT handwrite your application form (except for your signature) .
• If anything is not applicable to you, just put N/A.
• There is a part in Section 2 that asks for “Confirmation of Visa Issuance”. Just leave it blank or put N/A because this is basically info that’s only issued in Korea (most likely for Koreans only).
• See here for a SAMPLE filled-out application form: [ click ] and click the tab that says “Visa Application Form Sample”.
• There are sections here that ask for your address/hotel in South Korea as well as your intended date of entry and period of stay. Now regarding this.. .

You are NOT required to present “booked” airline and hotels beforehand because the embassy does NOT require applicants to book it before approval. It might sometimes help to present a flight reservation though, and you can do this easily with One Way Fly with a fee that is as low as Php 900~ only. . Once your South Korean visa is approved, check Skyscanner  to look for the best flight deals. As for hotel bookings, it’s best to do it with Booking.com or Agoda.com . With them, you can reserve a hotel with NO pre-payment and you can even cancel the booking a day before your arrival with NO cancellation charges at all.

• 1 Passport-sized photo.   This should be around 35mm x 45mm, colored, and against a white background. Paste this on your South Korea visa application form. .
• However, if you are a freelancer or if you have missing documents that you can’t submit such as an ITR, a Certificate of Employment, etc. — it is, therefore, a MUST that you submit a cover letter to the embassy to explain your situation.
• As for the itinerary, there have been some cases wherein some applicants were asked to submit a rough draft of their South Korea itinerary; so it’s best to prepare this just in case. .
• Original personal bank certificate: this must indicate your account type, current balance, account opening date, and 6 months average balance (ADB).
• Original or certified true copy of your Bank Statement or passbook for the last 3 months.
• Original Certificate of Employment: this must be printed on your company’s official letterhead and must contain details of your officer or employer’s address, HR landline number (cellphone number is not allowed) , HR email address, your position, your hiring date, and your salary.
• Photocopy of your ITR (or Form 2316)
• If you do NOT have an ITR or any of the other requirements above, write a simple letter explaining why you’re unable to submit them ( examples: you’re newly employed so you don’t have an ITR, etc. ). .
• Original personal bank certificate: this must indicate your account type, current balance, account opening date, and 6 months’ average balance (ADB).
• If you own a business , submit photocopies of your Business Registration issued by DTI / SEC, the company ITR, and your Business Permit or Mayor’s Permit.
• If you’re a freelancer , provide the latest photocopy of your ITR (or Form 1701A) with a corresponding payment receipt from a BIR-authorized bank and proof of work ( examples: screenshots of your work, a letter from clients, proof of payments for your work, etc. ).
• It is said that the only time you are exempt from submitting an ITR is if you have traveled to OECD countries in the past 5 years.
• Start filing your local taxes as early as NOW — after all, a lot of embassies (not only Korea) require an ITR. So if you’re looking for a hassle-free experience on Philippines tax compliance, I suggest registering with Taxumo because they can take care of literally everything for you: tax forms, payments, and submissions. I’ve been using them for years now and it has been such a time-saver. Come sign up with my code AILEEN and you can get a 10% discount on all their subscription plans!
• Photocopy of your senior citizen ID. .
• Given the way the Embassy of South Korea presents its requirements for visa applicants, it’s best that you acquire a guarantor/sponsor who can provide an ITR. Refer to section (B) below for this. .
• Refer to ‘Section (B)’ below. .
• ELECTED POLITICIANS: Members of the Senate, Members of the Congress, Governors, Provincial Board Members, and Mayors (City or Municipality) — along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents
• GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS: Persons with a rank higher or equal to Assistant Secretary of the Executive Branch of the Philippine Government, and Brigadier General of the Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police (excluding those in acting duties) — along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents
• PROFESSIONAL LICENSE HOLDERS: Those holding a valid PRC license ID (IBP ID for lawyer) with a profession of physician, dentist, lawyer (including judge, prosecutor) , certified public accountant, pharmacist, and veterinarian— along with their immediate family members only: their parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), and spouse’s parents. .
• Mastercard Gold Credit Card
• Visa Gold Credit Card
• JCB Gold Credit Card
• UnionPay Gold Credit Card
• Diners Club International
• American Express Cashback Credit Card
• American Express Explorer Credit Card
• Mastercard Titanium, Platinum and World Elite Credit Card
• Visa Platinum Credit Card
• JCB Platinum Credit Card
• UnionPay Diamond Credit Card
• Diners Club Premiere Credit Card
• American Express Platinum Credit Card
• American Express International Dollar Charge Cards (platinum, gold, and green) .
• (OPTIONAL) Letter of Attorney.  This is only if you’re planning to course your application through a travel agency, you will need to sign this Letter of Attorney .

* * * * * *

(Section B)  South Korea Tourist Visa WITH  Any Guarantor/Sponsor

This kind of application is applicable for  students, minors, unemployed persons, husband/wife (if one of you will be supporting the other),   self-employed persons/freelancers  (who can’t provide an ITR and have no strong reason why they can’t submit it) or just about any person who will take on a sponsor. This also applies to anyone who would have a company/agency to sponsor the trip.

For submitting the necessary requirements, simply submit the requirements listed in section (A), numbers #1 to #8.   And when it comes to  (#9)   Proof of income or financial stability , you should ask these documents from your guarantor/sponsor as dependent on their profession or occupation — this could be your mom, dad, brother, sister, friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, relative, etc.

Take note though that there are no guarantees of approval if your guarantor is NOT a family member of yours. In fact, it is said that it’s a lot better to have family sponsoring you.

Moving on, you should also submit the following…

• Sponsor/Guarantee letter.  This is a simple letter written by your sponsor indicating and confirming how he/she will cover the costs of your South Korea trip. .
• If your sponsor is a company in Korea, provide a photocopy of their Korean Company Business Permit .

TIP: If your sponsor is your brother/sister, you must also submit their birth certificate to the embassy.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

• …resident, you must submit an invitation letter and a photocopy of his/her passport or authentication ID
• …national, you must submit an invitation letter and photocopy of his/her passport or ID card.
• …company, you must submit an invitation letter and a photocopy of the Korean company’s business permit. .
• If you are married, submit a photocopy of your NSO Marriage Certificate. .
• Original school certificate.
• Photocopy of your school ID.
• Photocopy of your NSO-issued birth certificate.
• If your parents are your sponsor, provide a photocopy of an NSO-issued marriage certificate.
• If your sponsor is other than your parents, explain your relationship with that person through a cover letter.

(Section C)  South Korea Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

The South Korean Embassy only issues multiple-entry visas under certain conditions. Currently, there are 2 ways to avail this….

FIRST ,  by being a frequent South Korea traveler. Basically, it is said that if you have visited South Korea more than 4 times in the past 2 years OR if you have visited South Korea more than 10 times in total (with at least 1 of the visits done within the past 2 years), then you are suitable for a multiple-entry application.

SECOND ,  it is said that if you show or submit proof that you have OECD visas in the past 5 years, the embassy can automatically just issue you a multiple-entry tourist visa. (Yet to be fully confirmed but there have been cases in which this happens).

NOTE :  If in case you are a Philippine national living or residing in a foreign country and you wish to avail a South Korea tourist visa, kindly inquire with the appropriate South Korean Embassy in the country that you’re living in.

Step 3: Go to KVAC and submit your documents

Starting September 2023, the South Korean Embassy has officially inaugurated the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC). Going forward, ALL visa applicants must now process their applications through this center either:

• By themselves; or,
• See here for a complete list of these 35 accredited agencies)

It helps to note that visa applications for diplomatic passport holders, official passport holders, and for those who require a visa urgently within 1 to 2 days due to clear humanitarian reasons will be the only ones who are exceptionally accepted at the embassy. Additionally, KVAC is only providing visa processing assistance; hence, the approval or denial of your visa is solely at the discretion of the Embassy of Korea after reviewing your documents.

In my opinion, filing for a visa application by yourself presents absolutely NO issues. In fact, choosing to go through a travel agency primarily ONLY helps if you can’t personally visit KVAC to submit your application. Remember , much like KVAC, travel agencies only facilitate document submission for an additional fee and they have NO influence over the visa application’s decision.

• VISA PROCESSING FEES: A South Korean Visa is FREE of charge as long as you are only going to stay 59 days or less; however, KVAC as well as travel agencies charge for the service that they offer for processing your application. . KVAC currently only charges Php 900 as a service fee (they ONLY accept cash). As for other travel agencies, they typically charge about Php 500 to Php 2,000 as an additional fee on top of the KVAC service fee. (Meanwhile, for stays spanning from 60 to 90 days, the embassy will charge you a fee of about Php 2,000.) .

Take note that the consulate in Cebu still accepts direct applications — you can also course your application through their own accredited travel agencies, the list of which you can find here .

For the complete address details of KVAC and the Cebu Consulate, see below:

KVAC (Korea Visa Application Center) 9F~10F, Brittany Hotel BGC, 6 Mckinley Pkwy, BGC, Taguig, Metro Manila Website: https://www.visaforkorea-mn.com Email: [email protected] Telephone: 02-8248-5440 Operation hours: 09:00AM to 17:30PM (except for Philippine & Korea holidays) . KOREAN CONSULATE IN CEBU 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Cebu Email Address: [email protected] Contact No.: (63-32) 231-1516(-9)

• CUT OFF TIME FOR VISA APPLICATIONS AT KVAC: 4:00PM
• Please take note that in case you are a group of applicants for a family trip or business trip, one of the applicants may submit ALL of your applications. But if you wish to submit visa applications through a representative (someone who isn’t coming with you on the trip) , you must submit your applications to one of the designated travel agencies mentioned above.

Once you arrive at KVAC, the process usually goes like this:

• Upon arrival, a guard in the lobby will provide you with a queuing number. (Most people will already be here by 8AM to line up, and even though the official opening time is 9AM, KVAC may already start distributing and calling queuing numbers at 8:30AM).
• You can then head to Level 2, a waiting area furnished with chairs and featuring a café station. Your companions can stay here to wait, but only the visa applicants with queuing numbers can proceed to Level 9 when their number is called.
• A staff person will regularly come to Level 2 to call out numbers. When yours is called, proceed to Level 9.
• Another staff person will receive your documents for preliminary checking. Once done, you will be given a new queue number.
• In a separate room, keep an eye out for your queue number once it flashes on the screen with its assigned counter. Once called, proceed to Level 10.
• Take note, any original document that you submit will NOT be returned to you — except for your passport.
• If you like, you can receive your results and passport via courier service for an added fee of Php 300 (within Metro Manila, sent within 3-5 working days) or Php 400 (outside Metro Manila, sent within 5-7 working days).
• If in case you have missing documents, KVAC also has a photocopy and printing service for Php 10 per page (payable by cash only).
• You will be given an Application Receipt with a barcode — keep this because it will be important when claiming your passport and visa application results later.

Step 4: Claim your South Korean visa results

Typically, the processing time for visas is 5 working days , but due to the increased volume of applicants, expect it to go for as long as 10 working days or more .

Rest assured, KVAC will regularly send you the status of your application via SMS.

• If you’re personally going to pick up your visa results and passport, just bring a valid government ID as well as the Application Receipt.
• If someone else will pick up your results on your behalf, the representative needs to present the Application Receipt, a photocopy of your ID, an original copy of the ID of the representative, and a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA).
• If you lose the Application Receipt, please secure a Police Report with a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA).

Should your application be approved (yay!), make sure that your South Korean visa has your correct name, passport number, etc.

• Wanna track the status of your application online? Go to this page !

2020 UPDATE: The Embassy will NO longer issue a visa label for visa applications processed in the Philippines as of July 1, 2020. If your application is approved, the embassy will notify you by issuing a ‘Visa Grant Notic e’ on the official website . From there, you can print out the visa document by entering your passport number, date of birth, and other relevant information. . The Visa Grant Notice will contain your personal details including name, date of birth, and passport number, as well as other details including visa issuance number, status of stay, period of stay, number of allowed entries, date of issue, validity of visa, and issuing authority. (Simply PRINT the Visa Grant Notice and present it to immigration officers before your flight and after arrival).

What to Do in South Korea…?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in South Korea which features the best activities and tours to do in places like Seoul, Busan, and more!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended period of stay.

You can apply as early as two (2) months or 60 days before your planned trip date departure.

There really is NO best travel agency out there when it comes to visa approval because they have NO control whatsoever over that matter. Again, these accredited travel agencies simply  ensure that the documents you are going to give are complete. After which, they just pass it to the embassy who makes the analysis and final decision.

In case you are a group of friends with similar plane ticket dates, or if you are a group going for a family trip or business trip, only 1 (one) from your group of visa applicants may submit ALL of your applications. But if you wish to submit visa applications through a representative (someone who isn’t coming with you on the trip), you must rather submit your applications to one of the designated travel agencies mentioned above.

All tourist visa holders of a single-entry visa are permitted to stay in South Korea for a maximum period of 59 days.

There seems to be NO existing rule for a “break period” when you want to enter South Korea again — however, take note that if you enter the country again too soon, that will raise questions and the immigration might not let you in. Also, take note that you should NOT spend more than 180 days total in a year in South Korea as a tourist.

Please refer to the info I mentioned above under step #4.

The embassy does NOT require applicants to submit “booked” roundtrip flight tickets and hotel(s) before applying for a visa. It might sometimes help to present a flight reservation and you can do this easily with One Way Fly which has a fee that is as low as Php 900~ only.

This is NOT required, but it’s always good practice to prepare it just in case. To see an example cover letter, you can check the letter I submitted for my Korean visa application at this link .

The South Korean Embassy did NOT mention any minimum balance requirement, but some people have been saying that you need to have at least Php 10,000 per day of your stay — you can use this as a standard but of course, it’s always best if you have more. The way I see it, there’s no amount that will guarantee approval. Just ensure that you have complete documents and have enough pocket money to support yourself during your trip.

You can go to this page .

Sorry to hear that. Either way, you can reapply again after 3 months.

» Top South Korea Tours «

N Seoul Tower Tour Marvel at the breathtaking views of Seoul!

Nami Island Tour + stops to Garden of Morning Calm and more!

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for South Korea?

Check out my other detailed South Korea travel guides !

As you can see, applying for a South Korea Tourist Visa is fast and easy — you can do it all by yourself! All in all, I hope the process becomes absolutely hassle-free for you with the help of this visa guide.

Let me know how it goes… good luck!

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How to start a successful blog, 302 comments.

Great inputs, Aileen! Very informative and it covers everything one needs to know to get a visa and enjoy South Korea!

Hope it helps you!

Hello! There is a newly opened visa center in BGC that already allows walk in. I haven’t tried it yet and i am interested to go there instead of a travel agency…just saw it in the news. Do you have any idea about how it goes there?

Hey Mariae! Yes, there is! I have already updated this guide regarding this new process. Hope this helps!

Hello, we had visited South Korea last December 2019. We are planning to visit again in December 2023. Do we still need to get a new VISA? Thank you

If you were only issued a single-entry visa, then yes you still need to apply for a new visa. (So unless it says multiple-entry on your visa, then you do not need to apply again as long as it’s within the validity period).

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How to Apply For Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Tourist Visa for Filipinos

In the application form, there’s no indication if you are applying for a single or multiple South Korea Tourist Visa. Whether you apply for a Single or Multiple, it is the discretion of the Embassy to grant you one. But, if you want to have a chance to be given a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa, read this article.

In this article, we will be focusing on a Tourist Visa . Multiple Entry Visa holders can stay in South Korea for a maximum of 30 days. The validity of the visa depends on your eligibility as well as your passport’s validity. Check out how you can get yours now!

Korean Embassy Update (May 19, 2022): Multiple entry visa issued before 5 April 2020 that has not expired can be used without re-application.

ADVISORY: As per Embassy of South Korea, starting August 23, 2022 , visa processing is 25-30 working days.  

• How to Apply For A South Korea Tourist Visa with Your Philippines Passport
• Love Locks in South Korea: Where to Find LoveLocks in Seoul?
• 3 Day Seoul DIY Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea
• Top 10 Phone Apps For Your South Korea Trip [Free Apps to Download for South Korea Visit]
• 10 Awesome Street Food to Eat in Myeongdong, South Korea

How to be Eligible for Multiple Entry South Korea Visa

If you want to have big chances of getting a Multiple Entry South Korea Visa, you must be any of the following:

Frequent Visitor

As per this notice :

• Those who visited Korea more than 4 times within the last 2 years from application date
• Those who visited Korea more than 10 times in total and at least once in the previous two years

BDO Credit Card Holders

Credit Card Holders of:

• Visa Credit Card
• MasterCard Credit Card
• UnionPay Credit Card
• JCB Credit Card
• American Express Gold Credit Card
• Platinum Visa Credit Card
• Titanium, Platinum and World Elite MasterCard
• American Express​ Platinum Credit Card
• Cathay Pacific American Express Credit Cards (Standard and Elite)
• American Express International Dollar Charge Cards
• Diamond UnionPay
• Diners Club Premiere
• JCB Platinum

Requirements:

• Credit card’s Monthly Billing for the last 3 months
• Photocopy of the Credit Card
• This is only up to December 31, 2022
• Bank Certificate and Income Tax Returns are not required for submission in case you avail this
• Read more here

RCBC Bankard Premium Card Holders

Active and Principal Card Holders of:

• World MasterCard (including co-brands Balesin and The City Club)
• Black Platinum MasterCard
• Diamond Platinum MasterCard
• Visa Infinite
• Visa Platinum
• UnionPay Diamond BDO Elite
• This is only up to December 31, 2020

Note: Links from notice to RCBC card holders are currently unavailable. Thank you for understanding. 

Requirements for applying for multiple entry south korea visa.

1. Valid passport – should be valid for more than 6 months

2. Filled-up Visa Application Form – Here’s a document version that is easier to edit. Don’t forget to sign it. Here’s a guide on  How to Fill Out a South Korea Visa Application Form [Step by Step Guide] .

3. Passport-Sized Photo – 1 piece, colored

4. Valid Visa or Arrival Stamps to any OECD Countries for the past five years – original and photocopy. OECD countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, and US.

P.S. If you are a frequent traveler, you may also submit the valid visa or arrival stamps of your previous visits to South Korea

5. Bank Certificate – Include current balance, account type, and ADB. However, you may skip this when you are an eligible credit cardholder.

6. Bank Statement – for the last 3 months, in case you are an eligible credit card holder, submit your credit card statements for the previous 3 months

Supporting Documents

• Income Tax Return – you are exempt if you are an eligible cardholder
• If you are an Employee – Original copy of Certificate of Employment – with applicant’s position, date hired, compensation, office address, H.R. landline (not cellphone number), and H.R. e-mail address must be included.
• If you are a Business Owner – Business Registration and Business Permit
• Copy of IBP Card or PRC Card (only if applicable)
• If you want to apply, you can also make a cover letter stating that you wish to a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa and the reasons
• You can also attach your flight reservations , hotel bookings, and attraction tickets
• There is no visa fee for a stay of fewer than 59 days, but you’ll pay the travel agency about PHP 500 – PHP 2000

STEP by STEP Guide In Getting a Multiple Entry South Korea Visa

STEP 1: Gather the documents needed.

STEP 2: Find an accredited travel agency to process your application.

STEP 3: Wait for the decision.

STEP 4: Claim your passport with your visa at the travel agency.

Addresses that could help you

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634 +63-2-8856-9210

Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Cebu 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo, Cebu City +63-32-231-1516(-9)

Good luck with your application for a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa. It’s a handy tool, especially if you want to visit South Korea in every season. It’s also a great key in case you want to watch a concert or attend fan meets of KPop Idols. I hope this is helpful! Happy Travels!

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5 thoughts on “ How to Apply For Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Tourist Visa for Filipinos ”

Until Dec 2022 pa ba yung sa bdo credit card holder ? Wala na kasi dun sa link na nka attached … TIA.

Hi! If multiple entry 30 days 5 years, does it mean you can enter multiple times and each time hindi lalagpas ng 30 days; or cumulative ang 30? TIA

How to apply fo five year multiple entry. Thank you

Hi, pag kakapundar palang ng business at wala pang itr maipakita?

Write a cover letter then lahat ng permits.

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What requirements should I submit if I have a sponsor?

Even if someone will sponsor your trip, you still need to submit both your own and your sponsor’s financial and employment documents. Click here for the complete list of Korean tourist visa requirements . 

Aside from the basic requirements, you should also submit the following:

• Sponsor/Guarantee letter – a letter from your sponsor explaining how he/she will cover the expenses of your trip to South Korea.
• Photocopy of the sponsor’s passport (bio page only). Otherwise, you can submit a photocopy of any government-issued ID.

Note also that only immediate family and employers can be your sponsor.  If the sponsor is neither an employer nor an immediate family member (e.g., a boyfriend/girlfriend), you may still proceed with the application but there’s no guarantee that it will be approved. 

If your parent, sibling, child, or spouse will sponsor you, submit a birth certificate or marriage certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority as your proof of relationship.

If your employer will support your travel, submit its business documents and a sponsorship letter with the company letterhead.

Go back to the main article: How to Get Korean Visa in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

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Cover Letter for Korea Student Visa

by Contentholic | Jun 17, 2024 | Cover Letter for Visa | 0 comments

Korean universities are becoming increasingly popular for students who are finding their academic dream destination. While some might say that this is the influence of K-pop singers who belong to this East Asian Country, we would rather say that this is the charm of the country’s one-of-a-kind universities and effective education system that has an astonishing student success rate. The country has an advanced up-to-date curriculum of courses at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Each year, prospective students enter a strenuous competition to get their student visas accepted so that they can begin their education and journey in the country. However, it is not an easy nut to crack as multiple formalities have to be completed. After you have completed the said formalities, the visa officers decide if you should be considered eligible to study in the country or not. One of the tasks that should be accomplished by you is to write a cover letter for Korea Student Visa and submit it along with your request for a study permit. 

What is a cover letter for Korea Student Visa?

A cover letter for Korea student visa is a document written in the voice of the student who wishes to study in the country. This document is written in the form of an application/letter that is addressed to the embassy/consulate of The Republic of Korea which is situated in your country. The intent with which a student must write their student visa cover letter should be to sufficiently explain the purpose for which they want to travel to Korea and what are the reasons that have convinced them that this country will be the most suitable one for higher studies. Moreover, another writing goal that is to be achieved by you is to familiarize yourself with the visa official by giving your personal details from different parts of your life. However, you must remember that all these details have to be relevant to the purpose of a cover letter. Keeping this in mind, there are general guidelines for the structure of a proper cover letter which is widely accepted. Here, in this blog, we have presented the apt format for a cover letter for visa . 

Points to remember

• Colorful texts and unnecessary highlights are not encouraged. 
• Since it is a theoretical essay, avoid writing information in points. 
• Put different information in different paragraphs to avoid intermingling of ideas.
• Understand the significance of careful editing and proofreading.
• Try to collect insights and expectations from alumni or current students.
• When your academic past and future align, your profile becomes more trustworthy. 

The appropriate structure of a visa cover letter

Introduction 

A brief introduction with to-the-point details of yourself, your course & college, and the reason for applying for a cover letter.

Academic Details

Follow the introduction with details of the education which you have completed until now. Share the important examinations you have appeared for, the score obtained by you, your favorite subjects, and awards/recognition that you won.

Professional Information

List out the companies and positions at which you have worked. Stress on the skills that were learned during this period. It is better if the knowledge from your work experience connects with your course in Korea.

Talk about your course

Express how and why you developed such interest in your applied course that you decided to pursue higher studies in it. If you are excited to study a particular module or topic, write about it by giving suitable reasons

Choice of University

Share the criteria based on which you finalized your academic institution in Korea. Put a spotlight on the facilities that the university promises to provide you as a student.   

Korea as a country

Elaborate on how Korea is a suitable education destination for an international student like you. You can share academic as well as non-academic reasons for your wish to study in Korea. Some points that can support your case are safety (thanks to the low crime rate), reasonable tuition fees, college fests, friendly & polite natives, natural beauty, attractive heritage sites, etc. 

Future career goals

Divide your answer into short-term and long-term career objectives. Be reasonable and do not exaggerate or set baseless unachievable goals. You can increase the clarity of your answers by writing about the companies in which you hope to find employment, the variety of job roles available, the scope of growth, etc. 

Convey your Financial Details

Emphasize the worth of assets and valuables owned by you or your family. Bank details too are considered highly relevant. Clarify how you are going to fund your higher studies in Korea and whether there is a sponsor who is funding your education, stay, and other significant or insignificant expenses.

Closing your cover letter

Wrap up your cover letter for Korea student visa in a maximum of 5-6 lines. Reemphasize your interest in your course program and Korea. In 1-2 lines only you can share how this course will affect your personal and professional life. Extend warm regards to the visa officials for reading your application and expressing your hope of receiving a study permit.  

Mistakes that can level down your Cover Letter for Korean Student Visa

• Writing a cover letter without prior research work and strategy planning is like guaranteeing a visa rejection for yourself.
• Maintain stability between highlighting your achievements and overstressing them. Repeating information can prove to be harmful to your cover letter. 
• Clearly address your English and Korean language proficiency in your cover letter for student visa . 
• After starting with an interesting introduction, do not go light on your conclusion. Maintain a similar writing tone throughout your document. 
• Using cliched sentences will show that you have not put in any personal effort. 
• At no point should your visa cover letter indicate a lack of focus. 

The Republic of Korea has more than 400 public and private institutes for higher studies. More than 150,000 international students are accepted to study in the country each year. The reason why thousands of students choose to study in Korea is the seriousness with which the country has maintained an impeccable reputation for the quality of its education. It is only reasonable if the students are expected to submit a foolproof cover letter to secure their admittance into South Korea. Yes, this single document can have a mammoth impact on how officials view your profile as a student. Make sufficient efforts to ensure that you have explained your purpose clearly. Although it is a theoretical write-up, you do not have to write weak statements that demotivate the reader from reading your entire document. Instead, make sure that your cover letter for Korean student visa is engrossing enough to not let the reader drift their eyes. Coming to the writing style, keep it simple yet informative, creative yet related to the purpose, and communicative yet respectful. One way to ensure that your cover letter for student visa is written according to ideal standards is to get professional help from people who are experts in such form of writing. At Contentholic , we provide trustworthy Cover Letter Writing Service from which thousands of students have benefitted until now. We enjoy a reputation of being the best in the business because of our quality documents written by skilled cover letter writers .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) for Cover Letter for Korea Student Visa

Name some of the best courses for international students in south korea..

• Some popular courses for international students in South Korea are-
• Finance and Management
• Hospitality
• IT & Computer Science
• International Trade
• Engineering (Robotics, Mechanical, Civil, Nanoengineering etc.)
• Tourism & Event Management
• Korean Language & Cultural Studies

Many popular courses in the country offer specializations if students are interested in carving out academic niches for themselves. 

What is cover letter for Korean Visa application?

A cover letter for Korea student visa is an application that highlights your intention to study in the country as you navigate through your interests and passions.

Is it important to learn Korean to study in Korea?

Depending on your course and university, it might/ might not be a prior requirement for you to learn the Korean language. However, it is advised that students migrating to Korea for studies should learn the language as it will help them communicate better with their surroundings.

Do I have to take IELTS to study in Korea?

The scores of your English Language Proficiency Tests are important if you wish to study in Korea. You can take either the IELTS or the TOEFL exam. There are different passing scores for bachelor’s and master’s levels. 

How much money do I need to study in Korea?

The tuition fee for studying in Korea depends upon the course you are pursuing, the university to which you have been admitted, and the facilities that are being provided to you. The average amount that a student needs to study in Korea can range between $ 3000- $ 5000 per year. 

Which Korean universities teach in English?

Some Korean Universities that have courses in the English language are-

• Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
• Sogang University
• SolBridge International School of Business
• Korea University, Seoul Campus
• Myongji University

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How to Apply For a Korean Visa Without an ITR and COE?

Sample Cover Letter, Travel Itinerary & More

Disclaimer before I tell you how to apply for a Korean visa without an ITR and COE (Certificate of Employment). I had an ITR (Income Tax Return) for almost 3 years now. I use Taxumo to help me register and file in BIR. They’re godsent for freelancers like me who cannot understand taxation. (You can use my code C2Q0I to get a discount.) If I had known them before I wouldn’t have applied for a Japan visa without an ITR .

Now you may be wondering if my advice here will work when I already have an ITR and got my Korean Visa approved. Well, I don’t have a COE because I’m a freelancer, while my friend who traveled with me in Korea last October 2022 doesn’t have an ITR and she’s also a freelancer like me. But please take note that approval still depends on the Korean Embassy consul.

Step by Step Guide How to Apply For a K orean Visa

Step 1: get a travel agency to help you (but walk-ins at kvac are now allowed)..

UPDATE: Starting August 29, 2023, in line with the official operation of the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC), all Korean visa applicants must submit their visa applications at KVAC (you can walk in but make sure to come very early). Applying through accredited travel agencies is back again, but if you submit through them make sure to do it at least a month before your desired travel date.

For those who live outside of Metro Manila, you can now send your applications through the mail. READ: How to send your Korean Visa Application through the mail?

• Here is the link to the accredited travel agencies for South Korean visa applications .
• KVAC Location:
•  9F~10F, Brittany Hotel BGC, 6 Mckinley Pkwy, BGC, Taguig, Metro Manila
• Website: https://www.visaforkorea-mn.com  
• Days open: Same as the embassy’s working days. Holidays will be announced from time to time (Office hours: 09:00–17:00 but submission of application cut off is 16:30).
• Service Fee: PHP 900

Step 2: Fill out the Application Form

• Download the visa application form here .
• Must be printed on A4-size paper.
• This must be computerized or typed, NOT handwritten, and type in Block Letters or Capital Letters so make sure your keyboard’s CAPS LOCK is on.
• The font should be Arial size 12.
• For fields that do not apply to you, leave them blank.

For a step-by-step guide on how to fill up the South Korea Visa Application Form, this article by Two Monkeys Travel Group is very detailed.

Step 3: Gather the required documents

UPDATE: From February 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines will simplify visa application documents for visa applicants who meet the following conditions. Please be aware that for those who meet the following conditions, only the stated financial documents can be exempted or replaced, and other general required documents must still be submitted. You can read the update here .

Professional license holders

○ Applicable for those holding a valid PRC license ID (IBP ID for a lawyer) with a profession of physician, dentist, lawyer (including a judge, prosecutor), certified public accountant, pharmacist, and veterinarian.

○ Required Visa Application Document

   – Certificate of employment (original) and copy of PRC license ID or IBP ID

   – Submission of bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for professional license holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

      * Exempted documents may still be submitted if preferred

Credit cardholders

○ Applicable for BDO Gold or BDO Elite Credit Card Holders (Excluding Supplementary Credit Card Holders.) UPDATE JULY 8, 2024: Gold, Platinum, or Elite credit card holders of BPI, Metro Bank, and RCBC can also apply for the simplified visa until December 31, 2024. Details are in the KR Visa announcement .

   – (Immediate family members): One’s parents, spouse, minor children (applicable for adult children who can prove to be students through documents), spouse’s parents

   – Certificate of employment (original), copy of credit card(front only with complete information), and latest 3 months credit card account Monthly Billing Statements(copy)

   – Submission of bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for credit card holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

Credit Card Types Applicable For Korean Simplified Visa Application:

Here is the list of the south korea visa application requirements:.

• As mentioned in Step 2 above.
• Must be glued on the designated area on the application’s first page.
• For the size, it should be 35×45 mm. Just tell the photo studio it’s for a Korean Visa, usually, they already have a package for it.
• Must be valid for more than 6 months from your target travel date.
• Must have a signature. The signature field is on the bottom part of Page 3 (page next to the Bio page).
• Must have filled out the Emergency Contact Page (the last page of the passport).
• Submit only if you traveled abroad within the last 5 years. If you did, submit them together with your current passport.
• Attach it to your current passport using a rubber band by tying the back cover of the new passport to the front cover of the old passport.
• The bio page is the information page of the passport (Page 2).
• Some said Japan is no longer accepted due to several cases of applicants submitting FAKE Japan visas, but I only have a Japan visa and I decided to submit it anyway.
• Having an OECD visa can increase your chances of approval.
• To see all the OECD member countries, visit  this website .
• Must include account type, current balance, opening date, and ADB (Average Daily Balance).
• If you have a guarantor, you must submit their original copy.
• Must cover at least 3 months.
• Again, if you have a guarantor you must submit theirs.
• But if you file online like me, your ITR isn’t stamped. If you use Taxumo you can email them to request a stamped ITR but it takes at least 15 days or more. Alternatively, you can write a cover letter explaining why your ITR is not stamped. (I opted to write a cover letter because I only have 3 days to gather my requirements because my Korea was planned last minute. I put my sample cover letter below.)
• Copy of PRC Card or IBP Card (If applicable only).
• FOR EMPLOYED: Certificate of Employment (COE). Must be original; and must have the address of the employer, the landline number and email address of the employer’s HR department, the applicant’s position, the date hired, and compensation. Mobile number is not allowed.
• FOR SELF-EMPLOYED: Photocopy of the Business registration form from DTI or SEC. SEC Registration must include pages with the names of stockholders. And Photocopy of the Business permit or Mayor’s permit. And BIR Form with Corresponding Payment Receipt from a BIR-authorized bank.
• FOR FREELANCERS: The latest contracts from your clients and/or proof of revenue like a written letter (I have a sample below) that has your client’s name, company name (if they have one), landline number, email address, date hired or collaboration, and compensation. Mobile number is not also allowed here. If you’re registered to BIR, submit the forms mentioned in “self-employed” above.
• FOR HOUSEWIVES/ HOUSEHUSBANDS: Photocopy of NSO Marriage Certificate and your spouse’s documents mentioned above including ITR.
• FOR STUDENTS: Original School Certificate, Photocopy of a School ID, Photocopy of the NSO Birth Certificate of the applicant, Parent’s NSO Marriage Certificate (if applicable), and parent’s documents mentioned above including ITR.
• IF YOU HAVE A GUARANTOR: You must submit theirs.
• Not required but if you don’t have an ITR or COE, or your ITR isn’t stamped or you have a missing required document, you need to write a cover letter. (My sample cover letter is posted below.) Put this at the bottom of the application too.
• If you have a guarantor, this is where you explain your relationship with that person and why they’re shouldering your trip.
• This is not required either but I still provided one. I put this at the bottom of my application and they accepted it when I submitted my application. (My sample itinerary is posted below.)

NOTE: For family applications, you must provide documents that can serve as proof of your relationship. Birth certificates and marriage contracts are accepted. A representative can file for the whole family.

STEP 4: Submit the documents and wait

If you’re going to submit it yourself, make sure to put them in an envelope and don’t fold the documents. Do not staple it either, use a paper clip instead for documents that have more than one page.

If you’re going to submit through a travel agency, they will check the documents before you leave.

Processing time depends. In my experience, my friend and I decided to submit it ourselves to the embassy and after 5 days we already got our result by checking our status on the Korean Embassy website here . But the people I know who submitted this 2024, it took them 1 week to get the result.

For travel agencies, it’s around 15 days, but it also depends on your travel agency’s backlog. For October and November make sure to submit at least a month before your desired travel month because a lot of people apply during those months for the Chuseok holiday and autumn season.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR KOREA VISA APPLICATION

If you don’t have an ITR, you have to be straightforward in explaining why you don’t have one . In my Japan Visa application when I didn’t have an ITR yet, I just explained that I was a freelancer and didn’t know how to file one yet on my own. But I gave them a date when I will file. (Context: This was pre-pandemic. At that time, freelancing and working from home were not yet popular and there was not much guidance on how to file taxes.)

My friend that I mentioned above who doesn’t have an ITR yet, used the same format in my JP Visa post and got approved for a KR Visa. Her reason is that she’s just less than a year into her job as a freelancer so she hasn’t filed yet.

Another to take note, in the second paragraph where I mentioned my purpose of entry, I low-key implied that I’m going back to my country and I will be spending money in their country. I don’t guarantee it’ll 100% convince the consul but so far it worked on me both in Korea and Japan tourist visa applications.

SAMPLE OF PROOF OF REVENUE FOR FREELANCERS

Don’t forget to ask your client to put their logo and company name on top of the “Proof of Revenue” and don’t forget to ask them to sign it too. A digital signature is accepted because some freelancers have clients based abroad, as long as the company has a business number or email address.

If you’re going to use Klook to book train passes and attraction tickets, don’t forget to use my code “ALYRECOMMENDKLOOK” to get 5% off.

Sample korea travel itinerary.

This is the actual travel itinerary that I submitted to the Korean Embassy and the same one I showed to the Immigration Officer in NAIA Terminal 1. The decoration is not necessary, I just want to express my excitement. I made this using Canva .

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION S

Q: Should I book plane tickets before applying for a visa?

A: No, it is not necessary. The Korean Embassy discourages applicants from booking plane tickets before applying for a visa. There’s even a post about it taped outside their office.

Q: How much money should I show in my bank certificate?

A: People suggest your bank account should have at least Php10,000 per person per day during your intended stay. So if you’re planning to stay for 5 days, you should at least have Php50,000 in your bank account. But just to be sure, you should aim for a higher amount than settle for the minimum amount required especially now that they’re super strict on approving tourist visas due to an increasing amount of people illegally staying to work in their country.

Q: Can I submit more than one bank certificate?

A: Yes, you can. I submitted 2 bank certificates. The important thing is your statement of account. They look at how your money comes in and out. I’ve heard of people getting rejected because of a sudden huge deposit in their accounts. So to be safe, I just submitted all my bank accounts instead of doing a huge transfer.

Q: Should my bank account be 6 months old upon application?

This is actually on a case-to-case basis. I’ve heard people with bank accounts that are only 1-3 months old getting approved. It depends on your supporting documents.

Suppose you have more questions about the Korean visa application. In that case, you can join this private group on Facebook that helped me a lot with the Korean Embassy updates and other members sharing their experiences.

What Should You Book in Klook For Your Korea Trip?

My friends and I did a BTS Trip (which I will blog about later) since we went there for the concert. But here are the things we booked in Klook that were very helpful going around Korea. (Don’t forget to use my Klook code “ALYRECOMMENDKLOOK” to get 5% off.):

• SIM CARD – I highly recommend sim cards over rental WiFi device (if your phone is not locked by a network) because you don’t need a credit card deposit, if you get separated from your companions you have a way to contact them, and you don’t have to return it.
• AREX Incheon Express – This is a train station inside the Incheon Airport that will bring you straight to Seoul Station. No need to worry about catching a bus or booking a taxi.
• T-Money Card – This is like a beep card. You can use this in trains, buses, and taxis. You can buy this in convenience stores especially those limited editions with kpop groups. But if you want one before leaving the airport, you can buy one in Klook too.
• N Seoul Tower Ticket – If you’re a Kdrama fan, then this is a must-see place. This is the famous spot where lovers leave love locks.
• Hanbok Rental – Live your period kdrama fantasies, be a main character with a beautiful hanbok rental, and take photos in Changdeok Palace.

You can search for more activities in Korea through Klook below:

So these are the required documents, processes, and frequently asked questions on how to apply for a korean visa without an itr and coe. i hope this post will help. good luck, style vanity.

2024 Korean Visa Guide for Self-Employed Filipinos — How I Got Approved!

After publishing my freelancer BIR registration guide where I briefly mentioned that I got my Korean visa in Cebu approved as a self-employed professional , I’ve been receiving inquiries about the Korean visa requirements for self-employed individuals. Even my freelancer friends personally asked me how I did it.

Although I was granted a Korean visa without ITR before, I made sure to have all my documents complete this time around. I got my BIR Certificate of Registration (COR) as well as my ITR (BIR Form 1701A) and submitted them for my Korean visa application in Cebu.

Steps for Korean visa application for self-employed individuals

Step 1: gather your korean visa requirements for self-employed.

For self-employed professionals and freelancers , you may refer to the list of Korean visa requirements for Employed Individuals .

You might be wondering why there are different types of Korean visa requirements for self-employed individuals. Actually, if you check both lists, the requirements are pretty much the same except that you need to provide a Certificate of Employment (COE) for employees and SEC / DTI Business Registration and Business Permit or Mayor’s Permit for businessmen .

Here are the Korean visa documents I submitted as a self-employed professional:

Step 2: accomplish the korean visa application form for self-employed.

Download the new Korean visa application form and print in an A4 size bond paper.

Tips in accomplishing your Korean visa form

Take note of the following fields:.

Put N/A if you don’t have your National ID yet.

8.9. 동반입국 가족 유무 기재 Are you traveling with any family member?

a) 성명/회사(단체)명 Name of Person/Company(Institute)

Put your relationship to the entity who will fund you. Put SELF  if you will fund your trip.

Sample Korean visa application form for self-employed individuals completely filled out for your reference

Step 3: schedule your appointment and submit your documents.

If you are based in Manila and other parts of the Philippines , you can walk-in and submit your Korean visa documents at the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) in Manila. KVAC charges a service fee of ₱900. You may refer to our Korean visa guide for Filipinos for more details.

South Korea visa fees 2024

Step 4: wait for your korean visa, south korea visa processing time 2024.

According to the Korean Embassy’s announcement , the Korean visa processing time for short-term visit could take up to 10 working days .

Step 5: Claim your passport and Korean visa

Cebu-based applicants will get a slip where the tentative release date and time is indicated. You can proceed to the Korean Consulate in Cebu on the specified schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. can i apply for a korean visa without itr.

This is the most common question, especially since most freelancers and digital nomads don’t have an Income Tax Return (ITR) yet. But yes, you may apply like I did where I created a cover letter explaining my situation. You may refer to my Korean visa without ITR guide , but I do not guarantee the same outcome for you. So, apply at your own risk.

2. How early can I apply for my Korean tourist visa?

3. can i book my flights ahead and submit them as supporting documents.

I understand how seat sales and promo fares get tempting at times. However, the Korean Embassy does not encourage you to book your flights ahead since visa approval is still not guaranteed. Having a confirmed flight ticket is not a sufficient supporting document and does not guarantee your Korean visa approval.

4. What other supporting documents can I submit?

5. how do i write a korean visa cover letter.

You can check my Korean visa without ITR guide where I added a sample Korean visa cover letter. Feel free to tweak it based on your situation and what requirements you lack.

6. Should all documents be in A4 size bond paper?

Yes, all documents including photocopies should all be in A4 size. But if your bank does not print your bank certificate and bank statements in A4, it’s fine. Just make sure the rest of your documents are in A4 size.

7. If I completed all my Korean visa requirements, will it guarantee my visa approval?

There’s still no guarantee that your Korean visa will be approved even if you submitted all the requirements. In fact, I overheard one applicant asking why she got denied when she submitted all required documents. She didn’t get a specific answer and could not do anything about it. It’s still a case-by-case basis and up to the Korean Embassy’s decision.

8. How do I increase my chances of visa approval?

9. my visa got denied when i applied in manila. can i re-apply in cebu.

Unfortunately, you cannot apply or re-apply in Cebu if you are based in Manila or other parts of the Philippines. Only those who are based in Cebu can apply at the Korean Consulate in Cebu. Meaning, you must work or live in Cebu to apply for a Korean visa in Cebu .

10. If my Korean visa gets denied, can I make an appeal?

11. if my korean visa gets denied, when can i reapply.

Do you have other Korean visa questions or concerns not tackled here? Feel free to let us know on our social media channels: Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , and YouTube and we’ll try our best to respond to you.

• Blog Contributor
• G Dumaguing

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NO ITR - Sample Letter of Explanation for Visa Application

• at : February 13, 2020
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SAMPLE LETTER OF EXPLANATION FOR NO ITR

The letter breakdown, show money, why you want to visit, strong ties, travel history, you might also like:.

• How to Apply for a US Tourist Visa?
• 6 Steps in US Tourist Visa Interview at US Embassy Manila
• 27 Frequently Asked Questions in a US Tourist Visa Interview
• 3 Top Tips in Applying for Any Country’s Visa

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Hi! May I know if you had your Letter of Explanation notarized?

I didn't. It's just a letter.