Korea Visa Information for Bangladeshi Citizens: Application Process Guide

Traveling from Bangladesh to South Korea requires understanding the visa protocol established by the Korean government. For Bangladeshi citizens, the process to obtain a visa includes choosing between a single-entry visa, which is valid for three months, and a double-entry visa which remains valid for six months. The single-entry visa typically permits a stay of up to 90 days, while the double-entry visa usually allows a stay of 30 days per entry.

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bangladesh, located in Dhaka, serves as the primary point of contact for visa applications and inquiries. With designated hours for operations, the embassy provides consular services and information on the current bilateral relations and any updates regarding travel between the two countries.

Following recent global events, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been changing visa application procedures, highlighting the necessity of checking for the latest information before planning travel to Korea.

Considering the dynamic nature of international travel regulations, potential visitors should regularly consult the official Korean visa portal and the embassy’s announcements. With appropriate documentation and adherence to the latest guidelines issued by the Korean government, Bangladeshi travelers can confidently embark on their journey. The procedures are set to safeguard the visiting individuals while fostering robust ties between Bangladesh and South Korea.

General Visa Eligibility for Bangladeshi Citizens

South Korea offers a variety of visa types for Bangladeshi citizens depending on their travel purpose, each with specific eligibility criteria and documentation needs. Thorough understanding of these components is crucial for a successful application.

Visa Types and Purposes

Tourist Visa: For those interested in exploring South Korea’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, a tourist visa is the gateway to short-term leisure travel.

Business Visa: Business professionals intending to engage in commercial activities, must apply for this visa, which facilitates conferences, trade, negotiations, and other business-related ventures.

Student Visa: Aimed at those seeking higher education or participating in exchange programs; pivotal for Bangladeshi students aspiring to study in South Korean institutions.

Research Visa: Tailored for scholars and researchers engaging in academic work or scientific study.

Medical Tourism Visa: This visa serves those seeking medical treatment in South Korea’s advanced healthcare facilities.

Family Visitation Visa: For Bangladeshi citizens with family members in South Korea, this visa category allows them to visit relatives residing in the country.

Required Documentation

Document Type	Description
Passport	Valid Bangladeshi passport with required validity period.
Visa Application Form	Fully completed and signed application form.
Supporting Documents	Documents tailored to visa type, including financial statements, invitation letters, admissions letters, or medical arrangements.

Additional documents may apply based on the specific visa type, and it is essential to consult the latest guidance from the South Korean embassy or consulate.

Eligibility Criteria

Financial Stability: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient means to cover expenses for the duration of their stay in South Korea.

Travel History: A positive travel history can enhance the visa application, reflecting compliance with immigration laws.

Health Requirements: Depending on the travel purpose, health certificates or vaccination records may be necessary, particularly for medical tourism visas.

Intent to Return: Applicants should provide evidence of strong ties to Bangladesh, ensuring their intent to return after the visit to South Korea.

Bangladeshi citizens must meet these criteria to be considered for a visa and should prepare their applications with scrupulous attention to detail to enhance their chances of approval.

Application Process for Korean Visa

Navigating the application process for a Korean visa can be a structured endeavor for Bangladeshi citizens, provided they are acquainted with the necessary steps involved, right from the initial application to the eventual visa issuance.

How to Apply

Required Documents:

• Visa Application Form: Complete the application form specifically provided by the embassy of the Republic of Korea.
• Passport-Size Photo: Provide a recent photo, not older than six months.

Steps:

1. Collect all the required documents, including the completed visa application form and passport photo.
2. Access the Korean Visa Portal at www.visa.go.kr and select ‘E-Visa (Individual)’ for detailed application instructions tailored for individuals.

Appointment and Interview

Setting an Appointment:

• Contact the consulate via email to schedule an appointment. The email address for the embassy or consulate can typically be found on their official website.
• Confirm the date and time when the interview will occur at the Korean Embassy’s consulate section.

During the Interview:

• Attend the interview on the designated date and time without delay.
• Ensure that you bring all the original documents for verification.

Visa Processing Time

Key Points:

• The visa issuance date can vary and should be confirmed with the embassy as it depends on a variety of factors including the volume of visa applications and the individual application details.
• Staying updated with the embassy’s announcements is crucial as it ensures applicants are aware of any changes in visa processing times or related regulations.

These specifics aim to demystify the application procedures and timeframe expectations for Bangladeshi nationals looking to secure a Korean visa.

Special Considerations Amid COVID-19

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of the Republic of Korea has implemented specific measures affecting travel from Bangladesh. These are intended to manage the risk of imported COVID-19 cases.

Precautionary Measures

For Bangladeshi Arrivals:

• Testing: Travelers must provide a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before departure.
• Quarantine: All travelers are subjected to a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon entry.
• Post-Quarantine Testing: A further COVID-19 test is required after the quarantine period.

Travel Restrictions and Entry Requirements

Visa Applications:

• Resumption of Services: After temporary suspensions, the South Korean Embassy in Dhaka has resumed accepting visa applications.
• Restrictions: The resumption comes with a warning; any surge in COVID-19 positive cases among Bangladeshi arrivals could lead to reinstated restrictions.

Vaccination Status:

• Fully Vaccinated Individuals: Information on exceptions or eased requirements for fully vaccinated travelers has not been provided, indicating the emphasis on uniform protocols for all travelers regardless of vaccination status.

Short-Term Visas and Emergency Entries

For Bangladeshi citizens wishing to explore South Korea, obtaining a short-term visa is a required step. The visas under this category typically enable tourists to visit South Korea for sightseeing, while also providing avenues for emergency entries under specific circumstances, such as urgent medical needs.

Tourist Visa

Eligibility: Bangladeshi citizens require a tourist visa to enter South Korea. This visa generally permits a stay of up to 90 days.

• Documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Completed application form
  • Recent photograph
  • Proof of itinerary
  • Financial evidence
  • Medical insurance: Recommended but not mandatory

Non-Urgent Short-Term Visas

Apart from tourism, non-urgent short-term visas extend to other purposes such as business meetings, conferences, or family visits. These visas do not cater to emergency needs and follow the standard application process with designated processing times.

Visa Types:

• C-1 (Short-term News Coverage)
• C-3 (Short-term General)

For these visas, applicants must submit specific documents that correlate with the purpose of their visit, alongside the general requirements.

Emergency Medical Visa

For urgent medical situations requiring treatment in South Korea, Bangladeshi citizens must apply for an emergency medical visa. Expedited processing is often available for these cases.

Requirements:

• Official medical statement from a healthcare provider in Bangladesh
• Admission letter from a hospital in South Korea
• Evidence of financial ability to cover medical expenses

Each visa category necessitates a thorough preparation of relevant paperwork and adherence to South Korea’s visa policy for Bangladeshi nationals.

Long-Term Visas

For Bangladeshi citizens aiming to reside in Korea for a duration exceeding 90 days, understanding the types of long-term visas is essential. Such visas cater to international students, employees, and those looking to unite with family in Korea.

Student Visa

The D-2 Visa is designated for those pursuing higher education in Korean universities. Applicants must secure admission from an accredited institution and provide proof of financial ability to cover their educational and living expenses. The visa duration aligns with the academic program, and students often need to present a comprehensive study plan.

• Documents required:
  • University admission letter
  • Proof of finances
  • Study plan

Work Visa

For professional engagements, the E-series Visas are required, with various categories depending on the nature of employment. E-1 to E-7 visas cover different professions such as teaching, research, and specialized industry roles. Employment contracts, employer sponsorship, and requisite qualifications form the backbone of the application.

• Commonly required documents:
  • Employment contract
  • Employer’s business registration certificate
  • Professional and educational certificates

Family Reunion Visa

The F-6 Visa is for those seeking to join a spouse or family already residing in Korea. This visa mandates the submission of proof of the family relationship, like marriage certificates, and evidence of the sponsor’s capacity to support the family member’s stay.

• Typical documentation includes:
  • Family or marriage certificates
  • Sponsor’s financial records
  • Proof of residence in Korea

Each long-term visa category has specific application processes, fees, and processing times, which are subject to change based on diplomatic relations and other global factors. It is crucial for applicants to consult the latest guidelines from the Korean Embassy or Consulate before initiating their application to ensure compliance with the current regulations.

Electronic Visa (E-Visa) System

South Korea’s E-Visa system streamlines the visa application process for Bangladeshi citizens, offering an accessible online platform for various visa types. This section delves into the nuances of applying for an E-Visa and the recently implemented Electronic Travel Authorization.

E-Visa Application Process

Applicants may initiate the E-Visa process by visiting the official Korea Visa Portal. Here, individuals require an electronic form for confirmation of visa issuance alongside other essential documentation:

• Completed application form from Visa Portal
• Scanned image files of passport biographical pages
• Relevant supporting documents as stipulated by the type of visa being applied for

Upon submission, applicants will receive a confirmation notice and can track their application status online.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Before boarding a flight to Korea, Bangladeshi citizens must obtain an ETA through the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website. This authorization involves:

• Registering personal details
• Confirming trip information
• Undergoing a pre-screening process

It’s vital for travelers to apply for ETA at least 24 hours before departure and is valid for multiple entries over a two-year period.

Please note that the ETA does not replace a visa, but is a mandatory pre-travel requirement for visa-free entrants, enhancing security and facilitating smooth entry into South Korea.

Consular Services

In guiding Bangladeshi citizens through the intricacies of visa applications for South Korea, consular services stand as a critical touchpoint, providing an array of support ranging from guidance on regulations to processing of essential documents.

Consular Assistance

The Consular Section of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Dhaka is committed to aiding Bangladeshi nationals with the visa application procedure. They address concerns such as document requirements for various visa categories and provide up-to-date information on Korean immigration policies.

• Hours of Operation: 09:0012:30, 13:3017:00

In emergency situations or when facing difficulties abroad, citizens may seek the consulate’s support for guidance and intervention. This assistance extends to include legal issues, emergencies, and other circumstances requiring diplomatic involvement.

Passport and Other Services

The consular services offered are not limited to visa support but also encompass:

• Passport issuance and renewal: For Korean nationals, the embassy facilitates all matters related to passport services, including the issuance of new passports and the renewal of existing documents.
• Miscellaneous documentation: The consulate also provides attestation services for Korean nationals residing in Bangladesh, such as issuing certificates of nationality or other necessary documents required by local or Korean authorities.

Consular officials, including the ambassador, are available to discuss concerns and facilitate these services, ensuring Korean citizens have the necessary documentation for smooth international travel.

Embassy Information

When planning a visit to Korea from Bangladesh, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea is the primary source for visa information and processing. It is essential for travelers to be aware of the embassy’s contact details, location, and operational hours for smooth visa application procedures.

Contact Details

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bangladesh:

• Phone: (+8802) 5881-2088~90
• Fax: (+8802) 2222-63871

Location and Hours of Operation

The Embassy is located in the capital city of Bangladesh, ensuring accessibility for individuals seeking visa services.

Address: Embassy of the Republic of Korea 4 Madani Avenue Baridhara, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh

Operational Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 09:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Inquiries regarding visas, as well as consular services, can be managed within these hours. It is advisable for applicants to check for any updates directly with the embassy before planning their visit.

Additional Resources and Support

When planning a trip to Korea, Bangladeshi citizens will find a wealth of information and assistance available through official channels. These resources provide up-to-date visa guidelines, application procedures, and support for any inquiries travelers may have.

Official Websites and Helplines

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (MOFA):

MOFA is the principal source for reliable information regarding traveling to Korea. Bangladeshi citizens can visit the official MOFA website for comprehensive details on visa applications, entry requirements, and any recent policy changes.

• Website: Visit www.mofa.go.kr for official guidelines and announcements.

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bangladesh:

For personalized support and country-specific information, the Korean Embassy in Bangladesh is the go-to point of contact.

• Address: Embassy of the Republic of Korea, 4 Madani Avenue Baridhara, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh
• Phone: (+8802) 5881-2088~90
• Operation Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:0012:30, 13:3017:00

The Embassy’s consular section can guide applicants through the visa application process, provide advice on required documentation, and help with any queries related to travel between Bangladesh and Korea.