[ADSENSE] Inviting Overseas Partners to Korea: Understanding the C-3-4 Visa Process
If you’re considering inviting international partners or key buyers to South Korea, you may be wondering which visa to apply for and how to properly draft the all-important invitation letter for the C-3-4 short-term business visa. It can be overwhelming to ensure everything is done correctly, especially since a business meeting you’ve worked hard to arrange could be jeopardized by any document mishaps that lead to visa application rejections. Wasting time on incorrect information could potentially derail crucial contracts.
I had a conversation with someone navigating this process and compiled some insights. This article breaks down the intricacies of the seemingly complex C-3-4 short-term business visa and provides a practical example of how to write an effective invitation letter.
C-3 Short-Term Visa Overview
The C-3-4 visa, formally known as the short-term business visa, allows foreign nationals to engage in commercial activities for a limited stay in Korea. So, what activities are permissible?
- Market Research, Business Consultations, Contract Negotiations: Activities related to commercial engagements.
- Minor Trade Activities: Small-scale trading engagements.
Who Can Apply?
- Foreign nationals invited by Korean companies or organizations.
- Visitors with a clear commercial purpose, such as attending contracts or meetings.
Duration of Stay
- You can stay for up to 90 days.
A Key Point to Remember!
The C-3-4 visa is specifically for business activities; any employment that involves receiving a salary is strictly forbidden. Violating this could lead to significant repercussions for both the visiting foreign national and the inviting Korean enterprise, so it’s critical to comply.
How to Write an ‘Invitation Letter’
The most crucial document in the C-3-4 visa application process is undoubtedly the invitation letter. This letter must clearly state “why we are inviting this foreign individual and what the purpose is.” Be sure to include the following essential components:
Required Information in the Invitation Letter
- Information about the Inviting Party (Korea)
- Company name, Representative’s name, Business registration number, Address, and Contact information.
- Information about the Invitee (Foreign National)
- Name, Nationality, Passport number, Date of birth, Affiliated company, and Job title.
- Purpose and Schedule of Visit
- Avoid vague statements like “business meeting.” Specify details, such as “Final negotiations for the export contract of OO products and factory inspection.” A detailed itinerary from arrival to departure presented in a table would be even more beneficial.
- Return Assurance
- A guarantee that the visitor will comply with their stay period and return to their home country. It’s essential to include a statement indicating that the inviting party will take full responsibility in case of any illegal stay.
- Company Seal/Stamp
- Official stamping of the document is necessary for authenticity.
Sample Invitation Letter
I, [Your Name], the representative of [Company Name] located in [City], South Korea (Business Registration No: 123-45-67890), hereby invite the following individual:
[Invitee’s Information]
Name: John Smith / Nationality: India / Passport Number: X12345678
[Purpose and Duration of Visit]
Purpose: Final negotiations for the import contract of OO semiconductor equipment and attendance at the technical demonstration.
Duration: November 10, 2025 – November 15, 2025 (Total of 6 days).
[Return Assurance]
The invitee guarantees they will return to their home country following the specified duration and affirms that, in the event of an illegal stay in Korea, our company will accept full responsibility.
October 1, 2025
[Your Name]
Company Name
Important Considerations
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Proof of Purpose: Simply submitting the invitation letter won’t suffice. Attach supporting documents such as draft contracts, proof of past transactions, and relevant email correspondence to enhance credibility.
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History of Illegal Stay: If the invitee has a past record of illegal stay or unlawful employment, obtaining a visa is nearly impossible. Pre-emptive checks are crucial.
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Trustworthiness of Inviting Company: It’s necessary to prove operational legitimacy with documents like business registration certificates, tax filings, and transaction histories.
Above all, it’s essential to persuade the visa officer why this visit is absolutely necessary. Every document serves as a tool to validate this purpose.
Conclusion – Key Takeaway
Don’t overthink the C-3-4 short-term business visa. The key points boil down to three simple principles:
- Clearly define the business purpose.
- Provide a detailed invitation letter and supporting documents.
- Ensure there are no disqualifying factors for both the inviter and invitee.
By adhering to these principles, you can successfully secure a visa and seize valuable business opportunities.
Professional Consultation
If you still find yourself feeling lost drafting the invitation letter or need expert assistance navigating complex visa procedures, don’t hesitate to reach out. A single document error shouldn’t put your entire business at risk.
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This information is based on data from May and September 2025 and is presented in general terms; individual applications may vary. Detailed consultations can be requested through our 1:1 Consultation Board.
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