South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Philippines passport holders
Filipino citizens require a South Korean visa before travel, with fees around USD 50, applied through the Korean Embassy in Manila.
Philippines passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Apply at the Korean Embassy in Manila (Makati) or through accredited travel agencies. Required documents: application form, valid passport, recent photos, bank statements, employment certificate, flight reservation, and hotel booking. The USD 50 fee is paid at the embassy. Processing takes about four business days. Show strong ties to the Philippines to demonstrate intent to return.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Philippines to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea is an extremely popular destination for Filipinos due to Korean pop culture (K-pop, K-dramas), food, and cosmetic tourism. The Korean Embassy in Manila processes large numbers of tourist visa applications. South Korea also has a working holiday program for Filipino youth. Korean Air and other carriers offer direct flights from Manila and Cebu.
Practical Tips
Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, and Gyeongju are popular with Filipino tourists. The Korean won (KRW) is the currency. Korean Air and Asiana Airlines offer direct flights from Manila. T-money card for public transport is recommended. Korean cuisine (bibimbap, samgyupsal, tteokbokki) is popular with Filipino travelers already familiar with Korean food culture. Winter snowfall is a draw for Filipinos from tropical climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Filipinos apply for a South Korean visa?
Apply at the Korean Embassy in Makati, Manila, or through accredited travel agencies. Required documents include a valid passport, application form, recent photo, bank statements, employment certificate, flight reservation, and hotel booking. The fee is approximately USD 50 and processing takes about four business days.
What is the K-ETA and does it apply to Filipino passport holders?
The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online pre-travel clearance system for visa-exempt nationalities. Since Filipinos currently require a full visa for South Korea, the K-ETA does not apply. Filipinos must obtain a standard Korean tourist visa.
Why is South Korea so popular with Filipino travelers?
Korean culture has a massive following in the Philippines. K-pop concerts, K-drama filming locations, Korean cuisine (samgyupsal, bibimbap, Korean fried chicken), cosmetic surgery tourism, and winter snow experiences are major draws for Filipino travelers. Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island top the list.
Is there a Working Holiday Visa available for Filipinos going to South Korea?
Yes. South Korea has a Working Holiday Program for Filipino citizens aged 18 to 30. It allows a stay of up to one year with the right to work. Applications are subject to an annual quota and must be submitted at the Korean Embassy in Manila.