South Korea Extends Visa Fee Waiver for Tourists from India, China, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia Amid Growing Tourist Influx – Everything You Need to Know About the New Policy

Published on December 31, 2025

In a significant step to boost international tourism, South Korea has decided to extend the waiver of visa processing fees for group tourists from India, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia. Initially set to expire at the end of December 2025, the C-3-2 visa fee exemption has now been extended for an additional six months, lasting until the end of June 2026. This initiative is a part of South Korea’s strategic move to attract more international visitors, particularly from countries with high outbound tourism. With the country’s tourism sector on the path to recovery, this extension promises to further stimulate inbound tourism, especially as the number of tourists steadily increases, returning to pre-pandemic levels.

Visa Fee Exemption to Encourage Group Tourism

The visa fee waiver program, which applies to the C-3-2 visa category, is specifically designed for group tourists traveling from key countries. These nations—China, India, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia—are seen as vital sources of international tourists to South Korea. With the visa processing fee typically set at 18,000 Korean won (approximately US$12.46), this waiver significantly reduces the financial burden on tour groups, making travel to South Korea more affordable.

The South Korean government hopes that this move will encourage more people from these regions to explore the cultural, historic, and modern attractions that the country has to offer. The tourism authorities see the fee exemption as a key step in maintaining the momentum of inbound tourism, which has been steadily recovering since the end of the pandemic.

Impact on Tourism: A Positive Trend Continues

South Korea’s tourism industry has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent months. In November 2025, the country welcomed 1.6 million international tourists, marking a 17.3% increase compared to the previous year. This increase is not only a testament to the country’s growing appeal but also highlights the success of its recovery efforts. Tourist arrivals from countries like China and Japan have contributed significantly to this rise. While China remains the largest source of visitors, Japan’s tourist numbers surged by an impressive 40.4%, reflecting growing interest in South Korean culture, shopping, and cuisine.

The figures show that South Korea is on track to exceed its tourism forecast, with over 17.42 million foreign visitors expected by the end of 2025—a 15.4% increase from the previous year. This growth is not just post-pandemic recovery; it represents a thriving tourism market with continued upward momentum.

What This Means for Travelers from Key Markets

For travelers from the six countries benefiting from the visa fee waiver, this extension represents a golden opportunity to explore one of Asia’s most vibrant destinations. Whether it’s experiencing the modern urban landscape of Seoul, visiting historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, or exploring natural wonders like Jeju Island, South Korea offers a wide range of attractions for tourists.

Travelers should also be aware that South Korea’s tourism sector is continuously evolving, with new and exciting experiences for every type of traveler. In addition to traditional sightseeing, the country has been investing heavily in theme parks, cultural festivals, and wellness tourism, making it an attractive year-round destination.

Travel Tips for Tourists Considering South Korea

• Group Travel Benefits: With the visa fee exemption, now is an excellent time for group tours to South Korea. Many travel agencies offer attractive packages that combine sightseeing, cultural experiences, and shopping tours.
• Explore Local Culture: Don’t miss out on K-pop culture, traditional Korean tea ceremonies, and Korean cuisine, including Kimchi, Bulgogi, and Bibimbap, which will offer travelers an authentic Korean experience.
• Plan for Peak Seasons: While spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are ideal times to visit, travelers can still enjoy pleasant weather during winter and summer months. Booking in advance during peak seasons is recommended for popular tourist spots.
• Stay Connected: South Korea is known for its high-tech facilities, including free Wi-Fi in major tourist spots and excellent public transportation systems, including subways and buses.
• Respect Local Customs: South Koreans value politeness and respect, so understanding basic customs—like bowing as a sign of respect or addressing elders properly—is essential for tourists.

Further Stimulating Growth in South Korea’s Tourism Market

The visa fee exemption aligns with South Korea’s broader strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the global tourism market. The country’s cultural diplomacy and growing international presence continue to attract visitors from around the world. In addition to these efforts, South Korea has been focusing on sustainable tourism and improving the tourist experience to ensure that tourism growth is both beneficial and responsible.

As part of the ongoing efforts, the government has also been collaborating with local tourism bodies to promote lesser-known attractions, enhancing the overall appeal of the country and ensuring that tourists experience the diverse offerings beyond just the capital city.

Looking Ahead: South Korea’s Long-Term Tourism Strategy

With the extension of the visa fee waiver, South Korea is well-positioned to continue its tourism growth into 2026. The focus remains on attracting more international visitors while ensuring that the country’s tourism infrastructure can handle the increasing demand. Government initiatives like this, along with continuous investment in tourism-related sectors, will likely ensure that South Korea remains one of the top destinations for global travelers.