South Korea Extends Group Visa Fee Waivers for India and 5 Other Nations

South Korea has decided to continue its visa fee relief for select foreign group tourists as part of efforts to sustain the recent recovery in inbound travel and strengthen the tourism sector. 

Countries Covered and Duration of Extension 

According to a report by The Korean Times, South Korea will extend the waiver on visa processing fees for group tourists from 6 countries: India, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia and Cambodia.  

The exemption applies to C-3-2 visas and will now remain in force until the end of June 2026. The waiver had been scheduled to expire on Wednesday but has been extended for an additional 6 months. 

Fee Details and Government Rationale 

At present, the processing fee for a C-3-2 visa stands at 18,000 won, or about $12.46. With the extension, group tourists from the 6 eligible countries will continue to enter South Korea without paying this fee, lowering travel costs for organised tour groups ahead of the peak summer season.  

Announcing the decision, South Korea’s Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said, “The plan is to maintain momentum in inbound tourism,” as quoted by The Korean Times. 

Tourism Context and Expected Impact 

Officials said the move forms part of broader measures aimed at attracting more international visitors and supporting economic recovery in the tourism industry after prolonged pandemic-related disruptions.  

South Korea has recorded a steady increase in inbound tourist arrivals in recent months, and authorities expect the continued visa fee waiver to further encourage travel from key Asian markets. 

Read More: Shankh Airlines Set for Launch in January with Initial Routes Connecting Lucknow, Delhi, and Mumbai! 

Conclusion 

By extending the C-3-2 visa fee waiver until June 2026, South Korea is seeking to sustain growth in group tourism flows from major Asian source countries while reinforcing the recovery of its travel and hospitality sector. 

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