Korean Visa Photo Requirements

Overview

Korean visa applications require specific 35×45 mm photos that comply with Korean Immigration Service standards. Whether applying for tourist, work, study, or other visas, proper photos are crucial for approval.

Photo Specifications

Exact Dimensions

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Face height: 32–36 mm (from chin to top of head)
• Face-to-photo ratio: 70-80% of total height
• Position: Centered horizontally and vertically

Technical Requirements

• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printing
• Digital format: High-quality JPEG
• File size: 100 KB to 2 MB
• Color: Full color required (no black and white)
• Background: Plain white
• Quality: Sharp, clear, and professionally taken

Facial Requirements

• Expression: Neutral, serious expression
• Eyes: Open, looking directly at camera
• Mouth: Closed, no smiling
• Head position: Straight, facing forward
• Recent: Taken within last 6 months

Korean Visa Types

Tourist Visa (C-3)

• Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family
• Duration: 90 days (single/multiple entry)
• Requirements: Basic documentation
• Processing: 3-5 business days

Business Visa (C-4)

• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences
• Duration: 90 days (multiple entry available)
• Requirements: Business invitation letter
• Processing: 5-7 business days

Work Visa (E-1 to E-7)

• Purpose: Employment in Korea
• Duration: 1-3 years (renewable)
• Requirements: Job offer, qualifications
• Processing: 7-14 business days

Study Visa (D-2)

• Purpose: University or language study
• Duration: Matches study period
• Requirements: School acceptance letter
• Processing: 7-10 business days

Marriage Visa (F-6)

• Purpose: Marriage to Korean citizen
• Duration: 1-3 years initially
• Requirements: Marriage certificate, sponsor documents
• Processing: 10-14 business days

Investment Visa (D-8)

• Purpose: Business investment in Korea
• Duration: 1-2 years (renewable)
• Requirements: Investment proof, business plan
• Processing: 14-21 business days

Application Process

Required Documents

• Application form: Completed visa application (Form 17)
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Passport: Valid passport with blank pages
• Supporting documents: Varies by visa type
• Fee: Varies by nationality and visa type

Application Methods

• Korean consulates: In-person application
• Visa agencies: Authorized service providers
• Online: Limited services through visa.go.kr
• Mail: Some consulates accept mail applications

Processing Times

• Tourist visa: 3-5 business days
• Business visa: 5-7 business days
• Work visa: 7-14 business days
• Study visa: 7-10 business days
• Complex cases: Up to 30 days

Photo Guidelines and Standards

Acceptable Requirements

• Natural appearance: Minimal makeup, natural look
• Prescription glasses: Clear lenses, no reflections
• Religious headwear: If worn for religious reasons
• Medical devices: Hearing aids, medical patches

Prohibited Elements

• Facial expressions: Smiling, frowning, or unusual expressions
• Sunglasses: Any tinted or dark glasses
• Hats or caps: Except religious headwear
• Heavy makeup: Dramatic appearance changes
• Digital editing: Filters, beauty apps, retouching

Background Requirements

• Color: Plain white only
• Uniformity: No patterns, textures, or shadows
• Lighting: Even, professional lighting
• Contrast: Clear distinction from subject

Where to Get Visa Photos

Near Korean Consulates

• Specialized studios: Photo shops near consulates
• Quick service: Usually 15-30 minutes
• Experience: Familiar with Korean visa requirements
• Languages: Often multilingual staff

Professional Photo Studios

• Passport photo specialists: Experienced with visa photos
• High quality: Professional equipment and lighting
• Multiple copies: Can provide various quantities
• Digital copies: Often available for future use

Convenient Options

• Photo booths: Some locations offer visa photo settings
• Online services: Upload and print services
• Mobile apps: Some apps create compliant visa photos
• Same-day service: Most locations offer quick turnaround

International Locations

United States

• Los Angeles: Koreatown photo studios
• New York: Manhattan and Queens locations
• Washington DC: Near Korean Embassy
• Chicago: Korean community areas

Europe

• London: Near Korean Embassy in Ealing
• Paris: Korean district photo services
• Frankfurt: Business district studios
• Amsterdam: International photo services

Asia-Pacific

• Tokyo: Shibuya and Shinjuku areas
• Beijing: Embassy district photo shops
• Singapore: Orchard Road photo services
• Sydney: CBD and Korean community areas

Common Rejection Reasons

Photo Quality Issues

• Wrong dimensions: Not exactly 35×45 mm
• Poor resolution: Blurry or pixelated images
• Incorrect background: Not white or has elements
• Bad lighting: Shadows, glare, or uneven exposure

Facial Compliance Issues

• Expression problems: Smiling or inappropriate expressions
• Eye issues: Closed eyes, looking away, red-eye effect
• Hair problems: Covering face or creating shadows
• Accessory issues: Inappropriate glasses or jewelry

Technical Problems

• Old photos: Taken more than 6 months ago
• Digital manipulation: Obvious editing or filters
• Print quality: Poor paper or printing quality
• Size errors: Incorrect cropping or scaling

Special Visa Situations

First-time Applicants

• Documentation: More extensive document requirements
• Interview: May require consular interview
• Processing: Longer processing times
• Photos: Strict adherence to requirements essential

Visa Renewals

• Simplified process: Fewer documents required
• New photos: Fresh photos required for each application
• Faster processing: Usually quicker than initial applications
• Online options: Some renewals available online

Family Applications

• Group processing: Family members processed together
• Individual photos: Each person needs separate photos
• Dependent visas: Spouse and children applications
• Documentation: Additional family relationship proof

Emergency Visas

• Expedited service: Available for urgent situations
• Additional fees: Premium processing charges
• Documentation: Proof of emergency required
• Same requirements: Photo standards remain the same

Fees and Costs (2024)

Visa Fees (USD, varies by nationality)

• Tourist visa: $30-60
• Business visa: $40-80
• Work visa: $50-100
• Study visa: $50-90
• Multiple entry: Additional $20-40

Photo Costs

• Professional studio: $10-25
• Near consulates: $8-20
• Photo booth: $5-15
• Online service: $8-18

Additional Costs

• Service fees: $10-50 (if using agencies)
• Express service: $20-100 additional
• Document translation: $15-50 per page
• Notarization: $10-30 per document

Tips for Successful Application

Before Taking Photos

• Research requirements: Check latest consulate guidelines
• Choose location: Find experienced photo service
• Prepare appearance: Natural makeup, appropriate clothing
• Timing: Allow time for retakes if needed

Photo Session

• Follow instructions: Listen to photographer’s guidance
• Check quality: Review photos before finalizing
• Get extras: Order additional copies for future use
• Digital backup: Request digital copies if available

Application Submission

• Complete documentation: Ensure all documents are ready
• Photo attachment: Securely attach photos to application
• Review application: Double-check all information
• Submit early: Allow time for processing

After Submission

• Track application: Use tracking services if available
• Respond promptly: Answer any consulate requests quickly
• Prepare for travel: Plan trip after visa approval
• Keep copies: Maintain copies of all documents

Need compliant photos for your Korean visa application? Our AI-powered tool ensures your photos meet all Korean Immigration Service requirements for quick approval.