Medical Tourism Visa Guide for Foreigners Visiting South Korea
South Korea is known for its cutting-edge medical technology and exceptional healthcare services, attracting patients from around the globe seeking treatment. The country offers a variety of medical services, including cancer treatments, cosmetic surgeries, and rehabilitation therapies, which have led to the establishment of a visa system tailored for foreign medical tourists. In this post, we’ll break down the types of visas available for foreigners planning to travel to South Korea for medical treatment, along with the application processes and required documents.
1. Medical Tourism Visa (C-3-3)
The Medical Tourism Visa (C-3-3) is designed for short visits to South Korea for medical treatments.
1) Who It’s For
- Foreigners looking to receive health check-ups, cosmetic procedures, dental treatments, traditional Korean medicine, or rehabilitation therapy in South Korea.
- Individuals who have secured an appointment at a medical institution in Korea.
- Applicants who can demonstrate financial capacity to cover medical and living expenses during their stay.
2) Required Documents
- Completed visa application form.
- Original and photocopy of your passport.
- Passport-sized photographs (3.5cm x 4.5cm taken within the last six months).
- Proof of round-trip flight booking.
- Accommodation reservation confirmation.
- Financial proof (bank statements, pay slips, etc.).
- A treatment plan issued by a medical institution in South Korea.
- A photocopy of the hospital’s business registration certificate.
- A medical certificate issued by a healthcare provider in your home country.
3) Application Process
- Consult with a medical institution in South Korea and confirm your treatment schedule.
- Gather the necessary documents.
- Submit your visa application in person at a South Korean embassy or consulate.
- Wait for visa approval.
- Upon arrival in South Korea, proceed with your treatment.
2. Long-Term Treatment Visa (G-1-10)
Patients needing long-term care for chronic conditions, like cancer treatment or organ transplants, can apply for the G-1-10 visa.
1) Who It’s For
- Patients requiring extended treatment for chronic diseases or long-term rehabilitation.
- Individuals in need of ongoing treatment at a medical institution in South Korea.
- Those requiring a caregiver to accompany them.
2) Required Documents
- Completed visa application form.
- Original passport and photocopy.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Financial proof.
- Proof of round-trip flight booking.
- Accommodation reservation confirmation.
- Medical certificates and treatment plans from a South Korean healthcare provider.
- Hospital admission certificate.
3) Application Process
- Discuss your long-term treatment plan with a medical institution in South Korea.
- Assemble the required documentation.
- Apply for your visa at a South Korean embassy or consulate.
- Wait for visa approval.
- Proceed with your treatment upon your arrival in South Korea.
3. Caregiver Accompaniment
- Approval for a caregiver will depend on the patient’s health condition.
- Documentation proving the family relationship is required.
- Caregivers can stay until the patient’s treatment is complete, with the option to extend the stay if necessary.
4. Possibility of Stay Extension
- The C-3-3 visa typically allows for stays of up to 90 days; if treatment takes longer, you can apply for an extension at the immigration office.
- The G-1-10 visa permits stays of up to one year, with further extensions available for long-term treatment.
5. Important Reminders
✔ Visa issuance is contingent upon the results of document review.
✔ Submitting false documentation can lead to visa denial and potential entry restrictions in the future.
✔ If you need to extend your stay, make sure to apply for an extension at the immigration office.
6. For More Information and Consultations
For personalized consultations, you can reach out through our 1:1 Consultation Board. Additionally, you can find the latest visa information via Hi Korea.