Visa and Passport Information for IARS 2025 Seoul Conference Attendees
Please review the following information regarding passport and visa requirements to ensure a smooth entry into South Korea.
Passport and Visa Requirements
- Valid Passport:
- All visitors to the Republic of Korea must hold a valid passport. Make sure that your passport has more than 6 months until the expiration date.
- Visa Requirements:
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of countries with visa waiver agreements with South Korea can enter without a visa for tourism purposes. However, for non-tourism purposes such as employment or study, an appropriate visa is required.
- Visa Required: Nationals from countries without visa waiver agreements must obtain a visa before arrival.
- Official Invitation Letter: If a visa is required, the IARS Seoul Office can issue an official invitation letter to assist with the application process. Please contact us at iars.seoul.2025@gmail.com if you need this document.
Countries with Visa Waiver Agreements
Following is a list of countries with visa waiver agreements with South Korea. For detailed information on visa eligibility and the application process, please consult the Korea Visa Portal (https://www.visa.go.kr/main/openMain.do).
| Continent | Country / Region |
|---|---|
| Asia 8 countries | Japan, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Brunei (30), Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand |
| Americas 32 countries | United States, Canada (6 months), Guyana (30), Guatemala, Grenada, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Dominica, Mexico, Barbados, Bahamas, Venezuela, Brazil, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Suriname, Argentina (30), Haiti, Antigua & Barbuda, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras (30), Uruguay, Jamaica, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Trinidad & Tobago, Panama, Paraguay (30), Peru |
| Europe 43 countries | Andorra (30), Monaco (30), San Marino (30), Cyprus (30), Albania (30), Croatia, Slovenia, Vatican City (30), Bosnia-Herzegovina (30), Serbia, Montenegro (30), Greece, Netherlands, Norway (90 days within a 180-day period), Denmark (90 days within a 180-day period), Germany, Latvia, Russia (60 days / 90 days total within a 180-day period), Romania, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Lichtenstein, Malta, Belgium, Bulgaria, Sweden (90 days within a 180-day period), Switzerland, Spain, Slovakia, Iceland (90 days within a 181-day period), Ireland, Estonia (90 days within a 180-day period), United Kingdom, Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Kazakhstan (30), Türkiye, Portugal (90 days within a 180-day period), Poland, France, Finland (90 days within a 180-day period), Hungary |
| Oceania 13 countries | Australia, Guam (30), Fiji (30), Nauru (30), Palau (30), Kiribati (30), Marshall Islands (30), Solomon Islands (30), Micronesia (30), Samoa (30), Tuvalu (30), Tonga (30), New Zealand |
| Africa & Middle East 16 countries | Republic of South Africa (30), Mauritius (30), Seychelles (30), Swaziland (30), Botswana, Morocco, Saudi Arabia (30), Arab Emirates, Oman (30), Qatar (30), Kuwait, Bahrain (30), Liberia*, Lesotho (60), Israel, Tunisia (30) |
Travel Tips for IARS 2025 Seoul Conference Attendees
1. Arrival in Seoul
- Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the main gateway to Seoul, located about one hour from the city center. This airport has excellent facilities and services to make your arrival comfortable and convenient.
- Gimpo International Airport (GMP) also serves a few international flights and is closer to downtown Seoul.
2. Transportation to Seoul
- Airport Railroad Express (AREX): This train service connects Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station, the city’s central transportation hub, with both express and all-stop trains.
- Limousine Buses: These buses have routes to major districts within Seoul, offering comfortable travel directly from the airport to your destination.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport, although they are more costly than public transportation. Credit cards are widely accepted.
3. Currency Exchange and Payments
- The local currency is the Korean Won (₩; KRW). You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or licensed exchange centers in the city.
- Credit Cards: Major credit cards, including visa, master, american express, upi, and others, are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis and small businesses. Cashless payments are highly common in Seoul.
4. Internet and Mobile Access
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the city, including in public places, cafes, and even buses.
- SIM Cards and Rental Devices: Short-term SIM cards and Wi-Fi egg (portable Wi-Fi) rental options are available at the airport.
5. Weather in July
- Climate: Seoul in July can be warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching close to 30°C (86°F). The rainy season generally peaks in mid-June and may extend into early July, so occasional rain is expected.
- Packing Tip: Bring light, breathable clothing, as well as a compact umbrella or raincoat.
6. VAT Refunds for Shoppers
- Many shops offer Tax-Free shopping for foreign visitors. Look for “Tax-Free” signs and request the necessary documentation at the time of purchase to claim your VAT refund at the airport before departure.
7. Safety and Insurance
- Seoul is considered very safe, with low crime rates and efficient public services. However, it’s always advisable to have personal travel and health insurance during your stay for peace of mind.
- Emergencies: Dial 1339 for medical emergencies (available in English), 119 for fire and general emergencies, and 112 for police.
Useful Apps for Travelers
1. KakaoMap or Naver Map
- These apps offer more accurate directions in Korea than Google Maps. They support English and provide comprehensive information on routes, public transportation, and nearby attractions.
2. KakaoTaxi
- A convenient way to book taxis in Korea. English interface is available, and payments can be made through the app or directly to the driver.
3. Papago by Naver
- A translation app for real-time language assistance in Korean. It supports translations for text, voice, and images.
4. Subway Korea
- This app provides detailed subway maps for cities across Korea, including Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, with real-time updates and English navigation.
5. Visit Korea
- The official app by the Korea Tourism Organization offers information on attractions, restaurants, and events, along with tips for travelers.
