South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Saudi Arabia passport holders
Saudi passport holders require a South Korean visa before travel. Applications can be submitted at the Korean Embassy in Riyadh or via the Korea e-Visa portal online. The fee is approximately $50 USD. South Korea is growing as a destination for Gulf travelers interested in K-culture, food, and technology.
Saudi Arabia passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Apply via the Korea e-Visa portal at evisa.go.kr or at the Korean Embassy in Riyadh. Required documents: passport, passport photo, completed application form, bank statements, return ticket, hotel bookings, and employment documentation. Fee approximately $50 USD. Processing takes 5 to 7 business days online.
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
Required Documents
Korea Visa Application Form
Completed form submitted to the Korean Embassy or VFS Global Korea in Saudi Arabia.
Valid Saudi Passport
Must be valid for the duration of intended stay with blank visa pages.
Passport Photo
One recent color photo (35x45mm), white background, within the last 6 months.
Bank Statements (3-6 months)
Demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay in Korea.
Employment Letter
From Saudi employer confirming position, salary, and approved leave dates.
Hotel Bookings
Confirmed accommodation for all nights in South Korea.
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed outbound and return flight reservations.
Travel Itinerary
Day-by-day travel plan including planned activities.
Current Travel Situation
Saudi Arabia to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea does not grant visa-free access to Saudi nationals. Saudi passport holders may apply online through the Korea e-Visa system (k-eta.go.kr replaced by the e-Visa for non-exempt nationalities) or at the Korean Embassy in Riyadh. The standard tourist visa (C-3) is valid for up to 90 days.
South Korea has seen growing interest from Gulf tourists, driven by the global spread of K-pop, Korean cuisine (Korean BBQ, bibimbap), and Korean beauty and technology culture. Seoul is a modern, safe, and highly organized city with excellent public transport. Jeju Island, the DMZ, and Gyeongju (historic capital) are popular excursions.
How to Get There
Riyadh (RUH) to Seoul Incheon (ICN) typically connects via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Abu Dhabi. Korean Air and Asiana Airlines offer connections. Total travel time is approximately 12 to 14 hours.
Money & Banking
South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). As of 2024, approximately 1,350 KRW per USD. South Korea is moderately priced. Seoul hotels run $100 to $250 per night. Korean BBQ restaurants are excellent value. Cards accepted widely. ATMs available.
Practical Tips
Seoul's Incheon Airport (ICN) is one of the world's best airports. Incheon serves as a hub with excellent transit facilities.
Seoul highlights: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong market, Hongdae entertainment district, Myeongdong shopping street, and the Han River parks.
Halal food: Seoul has growing halal dining options, particularly near Itaewon (where the main Seoul mosque is located). Itaewon has numerous halal restaurants catering to the Muslim community and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Saudi nationals need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. Saudi passport holders must apply for a Korean visa (C-3 short-term tourist visa) before travel. Apply via the Korea e-Visa portal (evisa.go.kr) or at the Korean Embassy in Riyadh. The fee is approximately $50.
How do I apply for a Korean visa from Saudi Arabia?
Apply online at evisa.go.kr or visit the Korean Embassy in Riyadh. Required documents: passport, passport photo, completed form, bank statements, return flight booking, hotel bookings, and employment letter. Fee approximately $50. Processing takes 5 to 7 business days.
What is the maximum stay for Saudi nationals in South Korea?
The C-3 short-term visitor visa allows stays of up to 90 days for Saudi nationals.
Is halal food available in Seoul?
Yes. Itaewon (a neighborhood in central Seoul) is home to the central Seoul Mosque and has the highest concentration of halal restaurants in Korea. Many restaurants in Itaewon are Muslim-owned or certified halal. The Korean Halal Association certifies restaurants throughout Korea; their website has a searchable map.
What K-pop and entertainment experiences can Saudi tourists enjoy in Seoul?
K-pop entertainment districts: HYBE (BTS) and SM Entertainment offer fan experiences. Hongdae (Sinchon area) has live K-pop performances and buskers. Many agencies offer idol sighting tours near entertainment company buildings. The DMC (Digital Media City) area hosts music show tapings on weekdays where audience tickets can be obtained.
How do I get from Incheon Airport to central Seoul?
The AREX (Airport Railroad Express) provides two options: All-Stop train to Gimpo Airport and Seoul Station (50 minutes, KRW 4,150) or Express Train direct to Seoul Station (43 minutes, KRW 9,500). From Seoul Station, Seoul Metro covers the rest of the city efficiently.