Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Travellers with Disabilities
Seoul is slowly getting better at catering for disabled people. Many subway stations now
have stair lifts and elevators, and new toilets for disabled people have been built. A few
hotels have specially adapted rooms. Tourist attractions, especially government-run ones,
offer generous discounts or even free entry for disabled people and a helper. For more in-
Visas
Tourist Visas
With a confirmed onward ticket, visitors from the USA, nearly all West European coun-
tries, New Zealand, Australia and around 30 other countries receive 90-day permits on ar-
rival. Visitors from a handful of countries receive 30-day permits, while 60-day permits
are given to citizens of Italy and Portugal. Canadians receive a six-month permit.
About 30 countries - including the Russian Federation, China, India and Nigeria - do
not qualify for visa exemptions. Citizens from these countries must apply for a tourist
visa, which allows a stay of 90 days.
Visitors cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days except in situations such as a medical
Work Visas
Applications for a work visa can be made inside South Korea, but you must leave the
country to pick up the visa. Most applicants fly (or take the Busan ferry) to Fukuoka in
Japan, where it usually takes two days to process the visa. You can also apply for a one-
year work visa before entering South Korea but it can take a few weeks to process. Note
that the visa authorities will want to see originals (not photocopies) of your educational
qualifications. This a safeguard against fake degree certificates.
You don't need to leave South Korea to renew a work visa as long as you carry on
working for the same employer. But if you change employers you must normally apply for
a new visa and pick it up outside Korea.
