Korea medical tourism visa how to apply and requirements 2026

Applying for a Korea medical tourism visa is the critical first step for thousands of international patients seeking world-class healthcare in Seoul each year. Unlike a standard tourist visa, the medical visa (specifically the C-3-3 and G-1-10 categories) requires a direct sponsorship or "invitation" from a registered Korean hospital or medical facilitator. To successfully apply, you must first secure a consultation and appointment with a government-registered medical institution, which will then issue a "Certificate of Admission" or confirmation of visa issuance. You cannot apply for this visa using a simple doctor's note; the electronic invitation from the hospital is the mandatory trigger for the entire process.

The short answer: To apply for a Korea medical tourism visa, you must first secure a medical appointment with a state-registered hospital or agency, pay a deposit (usually 10-20%), and receive an official Certificate of Admission. You then submit this certificate along with your passport and financial proof to a Korean embassy or via the e-visa portal.

Understanding the different types of medical visas

South Korea offers two primary visa categories strictly for patients, depending on the length and severity of the treatment required. Choosing the right one is crucial to avoid immigration issues later, especially if your recovery time extends beyond your initial expectations.

C-3-3: The short-term medical tourist visa

This is the most common visa for patients seeking cosmetic surgery, dermatology, health check-ups, or minor procedures. It allows for a stay of up to 90 days. It is specifically designed for foreign patients who are visiting medical institutions registered with the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

In 2026, the C-3-3 is often processed as an "Electronic Visa" (e-visa) if applied for through an excellent-rated medical facilitator. This means you do not need to physically visit an embassy; the hospital handles the application in Korea, and you receive a visa issuance number to print out.

G-1-10: The long-term treatment visa

For patients requiring serious medical intervention—such as cancer treatment, organ transplantation, or extensive rehabilitation—that exceeds 90 days, the G-1-10 visa is applicable. This visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed if the medical necessity is proven by the attending physician.

The G-1-10 also allows for a caregiver (spouse or immediate family member) to accompany the patient under the same visa category (G-1-10 dependent), ensuring that patients have support during long recovery periods.

Eligibility and essential documents for 2026

The strictness of document screening has increased slightly in 2026 to prevent illegal overstaying. The immigration office wants to verify two things: that you are genuinely seeking medical care and that you can afford it.

The Certificate of Admission

This is the single most important document. You cannot generate this yourself. It must come from a hospital registered with the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI).

• Process: You send your medical records to the hospital -> The doctor reviews them -> You pay a deposit -> The hospital issues the certificate.
• Validity: The certificate is usually valid for 3 months from the date of issuance.

Financial capability proof

You must prove you can cover your living expenses and medical costs.

• Bank Statement: Typically, you need to show a balance of at least $3,000 USD (approx. ₩4,200,000) for short-term stays. For long-term stays (G-1-10), authorities may request proof of funds exceeding $10,000 USD.
• Transaction History: A specialized requirement often seen now is the need for the last 3 to 6 months of transaction history to prove the funds were not just deposited yesterday to pass the check.

If you are unsure where to even begin looking for a reputable clinic to issue these documents, you might want to read our guide on booking medical consultations in Korea, which explains the difference between contacting clinics directly versus using an agency.

How to apply for a Korean medical visa step-by-step

The application process involves coordination between you, the hospital, and the immigration office. Here is the standard timeline for 2026.

The role of registered agencies

Many international patients prefer to use a medical tourism facilitator. These agencies handle the communication, translation, and visa paperwork. However, be extremely careful. In Korea, it is illegal to act as a medical broker without a license.

For those interested in aesthetic procedures specifically, finding the right clinic is paramount. We have a detailed breakdown of the best plastic surgery clinics for foreigners in Seoul that are verified to handle international visa paperwork.

Costs and processing times

Budgeting for your trip goes beyond the surgery cost. The administrative costs for the visa itself are relatively low, but the surrounding expenses add up.

Visa fees

• Single Entry: Approx. $40 - $50 USD (varies by country).
• Multiple Entry: Approx. $90 USD.
• Agency Fees: If you use a medical concierge, they may charge a service fee ranging from $200 to $1,000 USD, though many earn their commission from the hospital rather than the patient.

Processing duration

• Electronic Visa (Priority): If the hospital has "Excellent Medical Facilitator" status, the visa code can be issued in 2 to 5 working days.
• Standard Embassy Application: This typically takes 14 working days, but can extend to 3-4 weeks during peak travel seasons (Spring and Autumn).

Arrival in Korea and logistics

Once your visa is approved, entering Korea is the next step. Since 2024, Korea has digitized much of its arrival process.

Immigration interview

Holders of C-3-3 visas may be asked specifically about their treatment plans at immigration control at Incheon Airport. Keep a printed copy of your Certificate of Admission and the hospital's contact number (usually the coordinator's mobile) handy. The immigration officer may call the hospital to verify your arrival.

Transportation to the city

Most major hospitals are located in Gangnam-gu or Seocho-gu. From Incheon Airport to Gangnam takes approximately 60 to 80 minutes.

• Taxi: A standard taxi costs about 60,000 - ₩80,000. A black "Jumbo" or "Luxury" taxi will cost 100,000 - ₩130,000.
• Limousine Bus: The most comfortable budget option. Buses like the 6009 or 6006 cost around ₩17,000.

For a detailed comparison of transport options, read our analysis on Airport Limousine Bus vs AREX Express Train.

Changing visa status while in Korea

A common scenario involves a patient entering on a standard tourist visa (B-1/B-2 or K-ETA) for a consultation, deciding to undergo surgery immediately, and then realizing they need more time to recover than their tourist stamp allows.

Can you change from a Tourist Visa to a Medical Visa inside Korea? Technically, yes, but it is complex. You can apply for a change of status to G-1-10 if a doctor certifies that you cannot travel due to your medical condition. However, simply "wanting to stay longer" for minor swelling is rarely accepted.

You must visit a local Immigration Office (e.g., the Seoul Southern Immigration Office for Gangnam residents). You will need to make a reservation on the HiKorea website weeks in advance.

For more on navigating immigration hurdles, check our guide on changing visa status while in Korea.

Accommodations and recovery environment

Your visa requires you to provide an address of residence. While the hospital might be your address for the first night or two, you will likely move to a hotel or Airbnb for the remainder of your stay.

Choosing the right recovery spot

Medical tourists often underestimate the importance of location. You want to be within 15 minutes of your clinic for follow-up appointments (stitch removal, deswelling treatments).

• Hotels: Offer daily cleaning and room service (crucial when you cannot cook).
• Airbnb: Offers privacy and a kitchen, but you must clean up after yourself.
• Recovery Centers: Specialized "recovery guesthouses" near Gangnam stations usually cost $80-$150 per night and include pumpkin juice (for swelling) and adjustable beds.

For a deeper dive into where to stay, specifically weighing the pros and cons of different housing types, read Airbnb vs recovery hotels for medical tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final thoughts on your medical journey

Securing a Korea medical tourism visa in 2026 is a streamlined process, provided you follow the rules of engagement: secure the appointment first, get the official invitation, and ensure your financial documents are in order. The South Korean government actively encourages medical tourism, aiming to attract 700,000 international patients annually by 2027, so the system is designed to say "yes" to genuine applicants.

If you are planning your trip, don't forget to budget for your time outside the clinic. Even while recovering, you can enjoy the city. Check out our guide on budget travel in Korea to manage your expenses effectively once the medical bills are paid.