Korea Extends Visa Fee Waiver for Group Tours From 6 Countries Through December

Korea's Ministry of Justice (Korea Immigration Service) announced it is extending a visa-fee waiver for group tourists from six countries — China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, India and Cambodia — through December 31, 2026. The waiver, originally set to expire in June, was renewed following an expanded national tourism strategy meeting.

At a glance: Group tourists from China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, India and Cambodia · US$15 (about KRW 22,500) visa issuance fee waived per person · In effect through December 31, 2026 · Inquiries: Ministry of Justice, Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr)

According to the ministry, about 790,000 foreigners entered Korea on group visas last year, up 39% from a year earlier, while the rate of visa overstays among them fell from 0.19% to 0.07% over the same period. The government cited these figures as the basis for extending the waiver.

The waiver does not apply to independent travelers, but nationals of the six countries entering Korea on a group visa arranged through a travel agency can obtain that visa fee-free through the end of the year. Travelers should confirm exact eligibility and procedures with their travel agency or through Hi Korea.