Korean Visa Application Updates: Streamlined Requirements for Qualified Applicants, Including BDO Gold or BDO Elite Credit Card Holders

From February 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines is simplifying visa application documents for certain categories of applicants. The simplified requirements apply to the following groups:

Applicable for Members of the Senate, Members of Congress, Governors, Provincial Board Members, and Mayors (City or Municipality).Immediate family members (parents, spouse, minor children, and spouse’s parents).Required documents: Identification documents (original), such as a certificate of employment or certificate of appointment. Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for politicians and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

Applicable for those with a rank equal to or higher than Assistant Secretary of the Executive Branch of the Philippine Government, and Brigadier General of the Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police (excluding those in acting duties).Immediate family members (parents, spouse, minor children, and spouse’s parents).Required documents: Certificate of employment (original) specifying organization, working period, position, and salary. Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for government officials and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

Applicable for individuals holding a valid PRC license ID (IBP ID for lawyers) in professions such as physician, dentist, lawyer (including judge, prosecutor), certified public accountant, pharmacist, and veterinarian.Immediate family members (parents, spouse, minor children, and spouse’s parents).Required documents: Certificate of employment (original) and copy of PRC license ID or IBP ID. Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for license holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

Applicable for BDO Gold or BDO Elite Credit Card Holders (excluding Supplementary Credit Card Holders).Immediate family members (parents, spouse, minor children, and spouse’s parents).Required documents: Certificate of employment (original), copy of credit card (front only with complete information), and the latest 3 months’ credit card account Monthly Billing Statements (copy). Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are exempted for credit card holders and family members. Other documents, such as proof of relationship, are required.

Applicants should note that while specific financial documents are exempted or replaced for the mentioned groups, other general required documents must still be submitted. Exempted documents may still be submitted if preferred by the applicants.