Ever wondered how to snag a South Korea visa while you’re living in Abu Dhabi? We’ve cut through the maze and turned it into a straight‑line recipe. First, set up a KVAC account—this is the portal that powers every visa request. Then fill out the online form, upload your documents, and pay the fee—no paper trail required. After payment, book an appointment at the Korean Embassy; the interview is the final checkpoint. Finally, collect your passport with the stamped visa, and you’re ready to fly south.
We’ve walked this path for professionals, students, and families; our guide mirrors the embassy’s checklist. Ready to jump in? Let’s make the process feel like a simple recipe.
Step 1: Create a KVAC Account
- Visit the KVAC portal: https://visa.go.kr.
- Register with your email and a secure password.
- Verify your account via the link sent to your inbox.
Step 2: Complete the Online Form
- Choose South Korea as your destination.
- Fill in personal details; double‑check dates and passport number.
- Save and preview before submission.
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
- Scan or photograph originals; keep files under 5 MB.
- Include passport photo, travel itinerary, and proof of financial means.
- For students, attach your acceptance letter.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
- Use the KVAC payment gateway (credit/debit or UAE bank transfer).
- Fees vary: C‑3 (₩1,200 ≈ $1), C‑2 (₩2,400 ≈ $2), D‑2 (₩4,000 ≈ $3).
- Keep the receipt; it becomes your appointment confirmation.
Step 5: Book an Embassy Appointment
- Log in to the KVAC portal after payment.
- Choose a slot at the Korean Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
- You can book 7 days a week; aim for 2 weeks ahead.
Step 6: Attend the Interview
- Bring the original documents, printed application, and appointment confirmation.
- The officer may ask a few questions—be calm and concise.
- Think of it as a brief chat, not a courtroom.
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
- Once the visa is approved, the embassy will notify you.
- Pick up in person or arrange courier delivery.
- Verify the visa type, dates, and entry stamps.
Pro Tip: If you need an expedited service, indicate it during payment and pay the extra fee; processing drops to 2–3 business days.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create account | Verify via email |
| 2 | Fill form | Double‑check passport number |
| 3 | Upload docs | Keep under 5 MB |
| 4 | Pay fee | Receipt needed |
| 5 | Book appointment | 2 weeks in advance |
| 6 | Interview | Bring originals |
| 7 | Collect passport | Verify stamps |
Ready to start? The embassy’s own FAQ page confirms our steps—just follow the flow and you’ll glide through the process like a well‑tuned orchestra.
Ever felt like visa types are a maze?
We’re here to untangle the knot.
Choosing the right category is the first step toward a smooth journey.
Think of it as picking the right key for a lock.
Ready to unlock the right path?
This guide is relevant for applicants in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
South Korea offers five main visa types: tourist (C‑3), business (C‑2), student (D‑2), work (E‑3/E‑7), and family visit (C‑1).
Each serves a distinct purpose, from leisure to long‑term employment.
Let’s break them down.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Typical Stay | Key Docs |
|---|---|---|---|
| C‑3 | Tourist | 90 days | Passport, hotel booking |
| C‑2 | Business | 180 days | Invitation letter, company registration |
| D‑2 | Student | Up to 4 years | Acceptance letter, tuition proof |
| E‑3/E‑7 | Work | Up to 3 years | Employment contract, work permit |
| C‑1 | Family visit | 60 days | Marriage/birth certificate |
Imagine a UAE software engineer applying for an E‑7.
He needs a Korean employer’s letter, proof of qualifications, and a health insurance policy.
A university student in Dubai, on the other hand, secures a D‑2 by submitting an acceptance letter, tuition proof, and a Korean student ID.
(Note: the application process is streamlined through the KVAC portal.)
Duration limits vary: C‑3 up to 90 days, C‑2 up to 180, D‑2 up to 4 years, E‑3/E‑7 up to 3 years, C‑1 up to 60.
Activities differ: tourists can only travel, business visa holders may meet clients, students must attend classes, work visa holders can work, family visit allows short stays.
Sponsors: business and work need company letters; student needs university acceptance; family requires marriage or birth certificates.
A quick decision matrix helps you match purpose, duration, and required docs at a glance.
Check the latest embassy guidelines, update your paperwork, and choose the category that fits your plan.
We’re ready to guide you through every step.
