Published on
January 3, 2026
By: Rana Pratap
China joins Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and other countries in Asia to get visa fee exemption for South Korea due to new travel changes in 2026. This aims to boost tourism by making travel more affordable for group tourists. The extended visa fee exemption, which applies to the C-3-2 group tourist visa, will allow travelers from these countries to visit South Korea without having to pay the standard 18,000-won processing fee. This initiative is part of South Korea’s strategy to enhance accessibility for tourists, particularly from Southeast and East Asia, where demand for international travel has been on the rise. By eliminating the financial barrier, South Korea is expecting an increase in group tours, encouraging more visitors to explore its cultural landmarks, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. With this move, South Korea is not only making travel easier for tourists but also strengthening its tourism ties with some of its largest markets.
China’s Expanding Horizons: Six-Month Visa Fee Exemption for Group Tourists Opens Up South Korea to More Travelers
Chinese tourists will also benefit from the extended visa fee exemption for South Korea’s C-3-2 group tourist visa. China has long been one of South Korea’s largest sources of foreign visitors, and the South Korean government’s decision to extend this waiver to Chinese nationals signals a continued effort to foster stronger ties between the two countries. The exemption, which applies to group travelers, allows Chinese citizens to travel to South Korea for tourism, cultural exploration, and leisure without the need to pay the standard 18,000-won processing fee. This makes travel to South Korea significantly more affordable for Chinese tourists, particularly those visiting as part of organized group tours, which are common among Chinese travelers. The extension of this visa waiver comes at a time when South Korea is keen to attract more tourists from China, particularly following recent global shifts in tourism patterns. By removing the financial barrier of visa processing fees, South Korea aims to make its cultural experiences and destinations more accessible to the vast Chinese population, which will, in turn, boost its tourism-related businesses.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryChinaVisa Fee18,000 wonVisa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaTourism, cultural explorationVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application CenterVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactEnhanced accessibility for Chinese tourists, more group visits to South Korea
Vietnamese Travelers Now Have Affordable Access to South Korea: Visa Fee Exemption Paves the Way for More Group Tourism
Vietnamese travelers can now benefit from the extended six-month exemption of the South Korea C-3-2 group tourist visa processing fee. South Korea’s move to extend this exemption until June 2026 is seen as part of its broader strategy to increase tourism from Southeast Asia, and Vietnam is a key player in that effort. Vietnamese tourists are increasingly seeking international travel experiences, and group tours to South Korea have gained significant popularity. The extension of the visa fee exemption makes the process more affordable for Vietnamese tourists, who can now visit South Korea without the added financial burden of the 18,000-won visa fee. As a result, the visa waiver will encourage more Vietnamese travelers to book group tours, where the visa processing is done collectively through accredited agencies. This initiative aligns with South Korea’s goals to attract more international visitors and diversify its tourism market, particularly from countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam, which has seen a rise in outbound travel in recent years.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryVietnamVisa Fee18,000 wonVisa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaCultural exploration, leisureVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application CenterVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactIncreased number of group tourists from Vietnam
Philippine Tourists Rejoice: Extended South Korea Visa Fee Waiver Paves the Way for Affordable Group Travel Until June 2026
Filipino group tourists can take full advantage of the extended six-month waiver for South Korea’s C-3-2 group tourist visa processing fee, which is set to continue until June 30, 2026. Under normal circumstances, Filipino tourists applying for the C-3-2 visa would need to pay a processing fee of 18,000 won (approximately ₱735). However, with this extension, group travelers from the Philippines will no longer need to pay this fee, making it a more affordable option for those traveling in organized groups. This initiative is part of South Korea’s efforts to enhance its tourism industry by making travel more accessible for key international markets, such as the Philippines. With its rich culture, history, and strong ties to South Korea, the Philippines represents a significant source of inbound tourism. By offering this visa fee exemption, South Korea is making it easier for Filipinos to explore its cities, landmarks, and vibrant culture without the added burden of visa fees. It is expected that this will encourage more group travel, thereby benefiting South Korea’s tourism sector, local economy, and hospitality industry.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryPhilippinesVisa Fee18,000 won (Approx. ₱735)Visa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaLeisure, cultural, limited businessVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application Center, ManilaVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactIncreased affordability for group tourists, boosting tourism and local economy
India’s Gateway to South Korea: Extended Visa Fee Waiver Unlocks New Opportunities for Group Travel to One of Asia’s Top Destinations
For Indian tourists, the extension of the South Korean visa fee exemption for C-3-2 group tourist visas is a game-changer. Indian travelers, who are increasingly eager to explore new destinations for leisure and cultural enrichment, will now be able to travel to South Korea without having to pay the usual 18,000-won visa processing fee. This is particularly significant as India represents a rapidly growing market for outbound tourism, with many Indians opting for group tours due to their affordability and convenience. South Korea has long been a top destination for Indian tourists, and by making it more accessible financially, the country hopes to continue attracting more visitors from India. The extended waiver helps facilitate travel for Indian families, groups of friends, and organized tour parties who want to experience South Korea’s vibrant culture, advanced technology, and scenic landscapes. With the added affordability, more Indian travelers will likely seize the opportunity to visit, contributing to the strengthening of South Korea’s tourism sector.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryIndiaVisa Fee18,000 wonVisa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaLeisure, cultural enrichmentVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application CenterVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactMore Indian group tourists visiting South Korea, economic growth
Indonesians Can Now Travel to South Korea More Easily: Visa Fee Exemption Helps Boost Group Travel from Southeast Asia’s Largest Economy
Indonesian group tourists will benefit significantly from the continued exemption of the South Korea C-3-2 group tourist visa processing fee. The South Korean government’s decision to extend the waiver until June 30, 2026, aims to make it easier and more affordable for Indonesian travelers to visit the country. Indonesia has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing outbound tourism markets, and organized group tours have become a popular way for Indonesian tourists to travel internationally. The elimination of the 18,000-won processing fee encourages more Indonesians to explore South Korea’s rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and beautiful landscapes. Indonesian group travelers, who are often part of tours arranged by accredited travel agencies, will no longer face the financial hurdle of visa fees, allowing for a more seamless and cost-effective travel experience. This initiative is expected to further strengthen tourism ties between South Korea and Indonesia, benefiting the local tourism industry and the hospitality sector in South Korea.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryIndonesiaVisa Fee18,000 wonVisa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaCultural tourism, leisureVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application CenterVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactGrowth in Indonesian group tourism, economic benefits
Cambodia’s New Travel Path to South Korea: Extended Visa Fee Exemption Unlocks Affordable Group Tours for Southeast Asian Explorers
Cambodian tourists are also included in the South Korean government’s six-month extension of the C-3-2 group tourist visa fee exemption, which will last until June 2026. This is a significant step in South Korea’s ongoing efforts to enhance its appeal as a top travel destination for Southeast Asian nations, including Cambodia. Cambodian travelers who are part of organized group tours will be able to enjoy this exemption, making travel to South Korea more affordable and accessible. The 18,000-won processing fee, which would normally be required for a C-3-2 visa application, will not be applicable during this period. This move is expected to encourage more Cambodian tourists to visit South Korea, particularly for cultural exploration, leisure activities, and sightseeing. The extended exemption will help boost the Cambodian market for South Korea’s tourism industry, supporting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. As Cambodia’s outbound tourism continues to grow, this policy aims to facilitate greater exchange between the two countries.
DetailInformationVisa TypeC-3-2 Group Tourist VisaEligible CountryCambodiaVisa Fee18,000 wonVisa Fee Exemption PeriodUntil June 30, 2026Purpose of VisaCultural exploration, leisureVisa Application LocationKorea Visa Application CenterVisa Exemption BenefitsNo processing fee for group touristsExpected ImpactIncreased tourism from Cambodia, stronger ties
Visa Process for South Korea’s C-3-2 Group Tourist Visa
South Korea’s C-3-2 Group Tourist Visa is designed for organized group travelers, offering a streamlined process for those visiting for leisure, cultural exploration, or tourism. Previously, travelers applying for this visa were required to pay a processing fee of 18,000 won. However, under the new changes in 2026, several countries, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and others, will benefit from a visa fee exemption, significantly lowering the cost of travel for group tourists.
Application Process for C-3-2 Visa
To apply for the C-3-2 Group Tourist Visa, applicants must submit their application through a Korea Visa Application Center. The application typically includes necessary documents such as proof of group travel, passport details, and itinerary. In countries where the visa fee is waived, travelers will be able to avoid the 18,000-won fee, making the process more affordable. This exemption is expected to make the visa application process more accessible to a larger number of group travelers, encouraging organized tours to South Korea.
Benefits of the Visa Fee Exemption
The visa fee exemption applies until June 30, 2026, allowing travelers from eligible countries to apply without the added financial burden of visa processing fees. This move is designed to enhance accessibility, particularly for group tourists, as many of these travelers often prefer organized tours that provide cost-effective travel options. By removing the processing fee, South Korea aims to attract a broader range of international tourists, particularly from Southeast and East Asia, boosting its tourism industry and strengthening bilateral ties with these countries.
Expected Impact on Group Tourism
The extension of the visa fee exemption is expected to lead to an increase in the number of group tourists visiting South Korea. Countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines have seen a rise in outbound travel, with group tours being a popular choice due to affordability and convenience. By offering a visa fee waiver, South Korea is making it easier for these tourists to explore the country, enjoy its cultural landmarks, and engage in leisure activities. This change is expected to result in increased tourism-related revenue, benefiting South Korea’s hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors.
China joins Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and other countries in Asia to get visa fee exemption for South Korea due to new travel changes in 2026. This move aims to boost tourism by making travel more affordable for group tourists from these nations.
Conclusion
China joins Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and other countries in Asia to get visa fee exemption for South Korea due to new travel changes in 2026. This strategic move is designed to enhance tourism by reducing financial barriers for group travelers from these key Asian countries. By eliminating the visa fee, South Korea aims to make travel more affordable, encourage more visitors, and strengthen ties with its neighboring nations. As a result, we can expect increased cultural exchange, a boost to South Korea’s tourism sector, and greater accessibility for travelers seeking to explore the country’s rich heritage and modern attractions.
