Traveling from Japan to South Korea — Who needs a visa and who doesn't?

Fukuoka is only about an hour away from South Korea by plane, and you can also get there by ferry. However, the procedures are completely different depending on which country's passport you hold. This is true even if you live in Japan or have a residence card. First, please check which category you fall into.

1. First, you will be divided into two categories

(A) Those who can travel without a visa — Check your K-ETA

If you are a Japanese citizen or a citizen of a country that allows you to enter South Korea without a visa, you do not need to apply for a visa. Instead, you may need a K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). Depending on your nationality, there may be periods of temporary exemption, so be sure to check the official website before departure to see if your nationality is eligible.

(B) Who Needs a Visa — Applying for a Short-Term Visit Visa

Citizens of Vietnam, Nepal, Indonesia, China, Myanmar, the Philippines, Mongolia, and other countries require a short-term visit visa even for tourism. If you live in Japan, apply at the Consulate General of Korea that has jurisdiction over the area where you live.

2. Where to Apply for Those Living in Fukuoka

If you live in Kyushu, apply at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Fukuoka. Opening days, reception hours, application methods (in person or through an agent), and fees may change, so be sure to check the official information before going, and if necessary, confirm by phone.

3. Documents required regardless of nationality

• Passport(Pay attention to the remaining validity period)
• Residence Card — This is proof that you are legally residing in Japan. Having little time left on your residence period will put you at a disadvantage during the review process.
• Passport-sized photo
• Application form
• Documents showing your identity in Japan(Certificate of employment, certificate of enrollment, etc.)
• Proof of finances(Bank statement, pay stubs, etc.)
• Round-trip airfare reservation and accommodation reservation

It will be easier to think about preparing documents from the perspective of whether you have all the necessary documents to convey that you are "going as a tourist and will be returning to Japan properly."

4. Don't forget the procedures for leaving and returning to Japan

Preparations on the Korean side alone are not enough. Procedures for returning to Japan are also necessary. If you return within one year, you can use the "deemed re-entry permit". If you forget to check the appropriate box on the departure card when you leave the country, you will be treated as if you have not obtained a re-entry permit.

5. Create your itinerary

Once you have decided on your destination, you can create an itinerary using ATRENS' travel planner. You can enter destinations in Seoul and Busan, travel times, and carry it with you as is.