South Korea, lovingly called the "Land of Morning Calm," is more than just K-pop concerts and binge-worthy K-dramas.
It's a hidden gem for travelers, offering everything from Seoul’s dynamic energy to Jeju Island’s peaceful shores.
In the first four months of 2024 alone, over 53,000 Indians visited South Korea, and with tourism booming, it’s easy to see why.
From its rich history and cutting-edge culture to drool-worthy dishes like tteokbokki and kimchi, South Korea continues to charm visitors.
If you're planning to explore the world of K-pop, indulge in authentic dishes, or visit iconic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, your visa application is the first step.
Following the South Korea visa photo size requirements is crucial to avoid delays and ensure smooth processing.
Be updated with the required South Korea visa photo size depending on the type of visa you are planning to apply for. Let’s look at some more points!
South Korea Visa Photo Size and Requirements
Photo Dimensions
The official South Korea visa photo size for 2025 is 35mm x 45mm, which is a standard size for most visa applications.
The face should cover about 70-80% of the photo, which translates to an approximate height of 32-36mm from chin to crown.
This ensures that the face is properly centered and easily visible.
Background
The background must be plain white or light-colored. Avoid any patterns, shadows, or textures, as these can create distractions or interfere with the visa processing.
A clean, unobstructed background is essential for your photo to meet the visa standards.
Position & Expression of Face
Your face should be centered in the photo, with your face facing directly forward.
The expression should be neutral, with your mouth closed and eyes open.
Smiling or making any exaggerated facial expressions is not permitted.
This ensures your photo resembles your current appearance and meets the official standards.
Photo Age
The visa photo must be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.
Photos older than six months may not be accepted, as they may not accurately represent how you look now.
Clothing & Attire Guidelines
Clothing
Choose neutral, non-distracting clothing for your visa photo. Bright colors or clothing with bold patterns should be avoided, as they might draw attention away from your face.
A simple shirt in a solid color works best, ensuring the focus remains on your facial features.
Headgear
Headgear is only allowed for religious reasons and should not obscure any facial features.
Make sure your entire face is visible, including the edges of your forehead and chin.
If you're wearing a head covering, make sure it doesn’t block any part of your face, and it should be neatly positioned.
Glasses
Glasses are permitted, but only if they are necessary. Ensure that there is no glare or reflection on the lenses, and that your eyes are clearly visible.
If possible, it’s recommended to avoid wearing glasses for the photo to ensure better clarity.
Visa Photo Requirements for Children
For children's visa photos, the basic guidelines remain the same, but there are some relaxations:
- Infants: Eyes do not need to be open, but the face must be clearly visible, and there should be no obstructions.
- Older children: The photo requirements are similar to those for adults, including a neutral expression and clear visibility of the face.
Make sure there is no hair or objects covering the face and that the photo meets the size and positioning guidelines.
Tips for Perfect South Korea Visa Photos
Professional Photo Studios
To ensure your photo meets the required specifications, consider visiting a professional photo studio.
Many studios are familiar with the specific requirements for South Korea visa size and applications and can ensure compliance with the guidelines.
DIY Photos at Home
If you plan to take your photo at home, follow these tips:
- Camera: Use a high-resolution camera to capture a sharp, clear image.
- Background: Stand in front of a plain white background, like a wall.
- Lighting: Ensure your face is evenly lit, with no shadows. Natural light works best, but avoids direct sunlight.
- Cropping: After taking the photo, crop it to the 35mm x 45mm dimensions. Online tools or apps can help resize it accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reusing an Old Photo: Using a photo older than six months from previous IDs or passports can cause delays or rejection. Always submit a recent photo that reflects your current appearance.
- Unclear Face: If your face is not clearly visible due to hairstyle changes or poor photo quality, it can lead to issues. Make sure your face is sharp, well-lit, and in a neutral expression.
Verifying Before Submitting the Application
Before submitting your visa application, double-check your photo against the official consulate or embassy guidelines.
Use online tools or apps to verify the dimensions and quality of your photo, preventing any mistakes that could delay your visa processing.
Best Time to Visit South Korea
South Korea offers unique experiences in every season:
- Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.
- Summer (June to August): Warm temperatures with festivals and beach activities.
- Autumn (September to November): Breathtaking fall foliage.
- Winter (December to February): Ski resorts and snowy landscapes.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy local festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival or Chuseok (Korean harvest festival), or even hit the slopes in winter!
Budgeting Tips for Your South Korea Trip
- Accommodation:
- Opt for local guesthouses, Minbaks, or Jjimjilbangs for cheaper stays (₹2,500–₹6,000/night).
- Transportation:
- Use AREX trains for affordable airport transfers (₹300–₹700).
- Buy a Korail Pass for unlimited train travel if visiting multiple cities (₹7,500–₹13,500).
- Get a Tmoney card for discounts on buses and subways (₹250).
- Food: Enjoy street food like tteokbokki (₹80–₹250) and local markets for meals under ₹500.
- Attractions:
- Take advantage of Culture Day for free/discounted museum entry.
- Use passes like Discover Seoul Pass (₹3,000–₹5,000) for discounts on transport and attractions.
- Seasonal Tip: Travel in the off-season (spring or autumn) to save on flights and accommodation.
- Jeju Travel: Fly to Jeju Island for as low as ₹1,500 with budget airlines.
FAQs
1. Can I wear makeup in my South Korea visa photo?
Light makeup is allowed, but it's best to keep your look natural. Avoid heavy makeup or bold styles to ensure your appearance remains as authentic as possible for the visa photo.
2. Are South Korea's visa policies strict?
Yes, South Korea enforces strict visa regulations. The authorities meticulously verify each applicant’s credentials to ensure full compliance with their immigration standards.
3. Is the South Korean passport strong?
Absolutely! The South Korean passport is one of the world’s most powerful, giving its holders the privilege of visiting around 193 countries without needing a visa.
Visa2Fly simplifies your South Korea visa application process. From ensuring your photo complies with all requirements to assisting with document submission, we help you avoid mistakes and streamline the process.
Plus, with additional services like travel insurance and personalized assistance, we ensure you can focus on your trip while we handle the paperwork.
