India
Korea Visa Guide
India and South Korea have deep economic ties — Korea is one of India's largest investors, and Indian IT and engineering professionals are in high demand at Korean companies. Indian nationals must apply for a visa before travel to Korea. This guide covers all options: from tourist visits and study to long-term work and permanent residency.
Visa required for all stays
Indian general passport holders do not have a visa-free agreement with South Korea and are not eligible for K-ETA. A visa must be obtained at the Korean Embassy in New Delhi or Korean Consulates in Chennai, Kolkata, or Mumbai before travelling, regardless of purpose or duration.
Visa-free stay
Not applicable — visa required
K-ETA eligible?
No — full visa required
E-9 eligible?
Yes (added 2023 — new opportunity)
E-7-4 quota (2025)
35,000 positions
Scholarship program
GKS (Global Korea Scholarship)
Indian Embassy in Seoul
Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Skilled Worker
PopularThe primary work visa for Indian professionals. IT engineers, software developers, data scientists, and semiconductor specialists are in strong demand at Samsung, LG, Hyundai, SK, and Korean startups.
Non-Professional Employment (EPS)
PopularIndia was added to the EPS program in late 2023 — a major new pathway. Manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and fisheries roles. Apply through EPS-TOPIK language test.
Skilled Worker Transition
PopularA pathway for E-9 workers to transition to skilled work. Korea expanded this category to 35,000 positions in 2025 — a significant opportunity for long-term Indian workers in Korea.
Short-term Business / Tourism
For Indian nationals visiting Korea for up to 90 days. Apply at the Korean Embassy in New Delhi or Consulates in Chennai, Kolkata, or Mumbai.
Student (Degree)
Study at Korean universities. The GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) provides full funding including tuition, living allowance, and language training for Indian graduate students.
Points-based Residency
After 1+ year on E-7 with 80+ K-Points, Indian professionals can apply for long-term residency. TOPIK score, income, and education all contribute to the score.
Do Indian citizens need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. Indian general passport holders must apply for a visa at the Korean Embassy in New Delhi or Korean Consulates (Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai) before travelling. Diplomatic and official passport holders may have exemptions.
How can an Indian IT engineer get a work visa for Korea?
The E-7 (Specific Activities) visa is the standard path. You need a job offer from a Korean company, a relevant degree (bachelor's or higher), and usually 2+ years of work experience. Processing takes 4–8 weeks after the job offer.
What is the E-9 EPS pathway for Indian workers?
India was added to Korea's Employment Permit System (EPS) in late 2023. To apply, pass the EPS-TOPIK Korean language test, register on the EPS roster, and wait for employer matching. The process can take 6 months to 2 years. Sectors include manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and fisheries.
Is the GKS scholarship available for Indian students?
Yes. GKS (formerly KGSP) provides full scholarships — tuition, monthly stipend, and Korean language training — for Indian undergraduate and graduate students. Apply through the Indian Embassy in Seoul or directly to Korean universities.
Can an Indian national get permanent residency in Korea?
Yes. The most common path for Indian professionals is E-7 → F-2-7 (after accumulating 80+ K-Points) → F-5 after 2 years on F-2-7. Total minimum: approximately 3–5 years of qualifying work.
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