Visa and Passport

What kind of visa do I need?

All foreign civilians must have a valid passport to enter the Republic of Korea (ROK). An A-3 visa is required for any stay over 30 days. This visa entitles travelers to stay in Korea for an extended period of time (normally up to 60 months), and to leave and enter Korea multiple times.

Who needs the A-3 visa?

Dependents staying in country longer than 30 days need to have the A-3 visa.

Isn't it granted automatically?

This visa is not granted automatically. Unless special arrangements were made before arrival in the ROK with the Korean Embassy in the United States, an A-3 visa must be issued.

''Military members do not need a special visa for serving in korea. They may travel in out of the country with a valid passport, military ID card, and leave form.''

How do I get an A-3 visa?

Command-sponsored dependendents appear on their sponsor's orders, which must be submitted when applying for an A-3 visa. This can and should be arranged through the Korean Embassy in the USA. Noncommand-sponsored dependents receive a tourist visa upon arrival, which needs to be changed to an A-3 visa within 30 days. The A-3 visa is available at the AMC Terminal Immigration Office at Osan AB. Be sure to provide the following documents:  Copy of sponsor's ID and orders of assignment ID card and passports for each dependent Letter from sponsor's commander, authorizing dependents to stay in Korea 

The visa can be issued at the same time as the SOFA stamp.

What will happen if I don't get an A-3 visa?

People that overstay their visas area violating Korea's immigration regulations. This will become apparent at the airport immigration counter. Problems that may encountered range from substantial delays as their passport is scrutinized (perhaps missing a flight) to large monetary fines. Don't risk the invonvenience and expense of not having th proper papers.

What if my friends or family members want to visit?

Friends and relative may certainly come for a tourist visit, but if they plan to remain beyond the expiration of their visa, they must first apply for a visa extension at the Korean Immigration Office.

For clarification regarding visas to Korea is available from the Korean Embassy in Washington, D.C. or visit http://www.mofat.go.kr

I lost my passport!

For information on lost or stolen passports, passports for new spouses and babies, as well as visas for non-citizens, check out the U.S. Embassy website.

American citizens needing travel and visa information for other countries can visit the U.S. State Department.