India visa for South Korean citizens
South Korean citizens can apply online for an Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical or conference categories) on the official Government of India site before travelling.
Check the official site before you travel. imptpune.in is a hotel and travel site; it does not issue visas. Visa rules change: confirm on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
| Status | e-Visa available |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Indian e-Visa (tourist, business, medical, conference), applied for online |
| Where to apply | indianvisaonline.gov.in (e-Visa) |
| Processing | Set by the Government of India: check the official site |
| Arrival | At an airport or seaport designated for e-Visa arrivals |
South Korean passport holders must obtain an Indian e-Visa for short visits. The application is done entirely online at the official government website. You receive an electronic travel authorisation before departure. On arrival at a designated airport or seaport, biometrics are taken. The e-Visa covers tourism, business, and medical purposes. Always verify the latest requirements on the official site, as rules can change.
What the e-Visa means for you
The Indian e-Visa allows South Korean citizens to enter India for tourism, business, or medical reasons without visiting an Indian embassy. You apply online, upload documents, and pay the fee. Once approved, you receive an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by email. Print this and carry it with your passport. The e-Visa is linked electronically to your passport number.
The e-Visa is valid for entry at 30 designated airports and 5 major seaports in India. It is not valid for land border crossings. If you plan to enter India by road from Nepal or Bhutan, you need a regular visa from an Indian mission. The e-Visa is a convenient option for most short trips.
Before you travel and on arrival
Arriving in India's big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru, you will find prepaid taxi and app-based transport counters at the airport. Use the official prepaid service to avoid haggling. If you have a local SIM card, you can book a ride. Many airports have metro or train connections to the city centre. Check the current fare before travelling.
Travelling between cities in India is easy by air, train, or bus. Domestic flights connect major cities. For trains, book tickets online through the Indian Railways website or app. Long-distance buses are available from state-run and private operators. Always confirm the departure time and platform number at the station. Keep your passport and visa details handy for hotel check-ins.
Staying longer, working or studying
The e-Visa is for short stays only. If you plan to work, study, or stay longer than the e-Visa allows, you need a different visa category. Apply for an employment visa, student visa, or entry visa at the Indian embassy in Seoul. These visas require additional documents and processing time. Check the official site for the specific requirements.
For business activities that go beyond attending meetings, such as setting up a company or long-term projects, a business visa is necessary. The e-Visa for business covers limited activities like business meetings and conferences. If you intend to volunteer or do research, you need a special visa. Always confirm your visa type with the Indian mission before travelling.
How to apply for the e-Visa
- Go to the official Indian e-Visa website: indianvisaonline.gov.in.
- Select your nationality as South Korean and choose the visa type.
- Fill in the online application form with your personal and passport details.
- Upload a recent photograph and a scanned copy of the passport's bio page.
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to be emailed to you.
- Print the ETA and carry it with your passport when you travel to India.
Documents to carry
- Valid passport with sufficient validity from the date of arrival
- Printed copy of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- Recent passport-size photograph (digital upload)
- Scanned copy of the passport's bio page
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
South Korean citizens: questions
Can South Korean citizens get a visa on arrival in India?
No, India does not offer visa on arrival for South Korean citizens. You must apply for an e-Visa online before travel. The e-Visa is the only visa option for short visits.
How long does the Indian e-Visa for South Korean citizens take to process?
Processing times vary. Check the official site for current estimates. Apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid delays. The ETA is usually sent by email within a few days.
Can South Korean citizens extend their Indian e-Visa?
No, the e-Visa cannot be extended or converted to another visa type. If you need to stay longer, you must leave India and apply for a new visa from your home country.
What if the Indian e-Visa application is rejected for South Korean citizens?
If the application is rejected, you can reapply after correcting any errors. Alternatively, visit the Indian embassy in Seoul for a regular visa. Check the rejection reason before reapplying.
Do South Korean children need an e-Visa for India?
Yes, all South Korean citizens, including infants and children, need a separate e-Visa. Apply for each traveller individually. Upload the child's passport and photograph as per the guidelines.
Where will you stay in Pune?
Koregaon Park for a first visit, Viman Nagar for the airport, Hinjewadi or Kharadi for work. Live prices for your dates open in the IMPT app.
Photo credits: Photo on Pexels.