🇰🇷 A-1 Visa (Diplomatic Visa) for South Korea – Full Guide

✅ What is the A-1 Visa?

The A-1 visa is a diplomatic visa issued by the South Korean government to members of foreign diplomatic missions, consular offices, and certain high-level international officials. It also extends to individuals who, by treaty or international custom, are granted diplomatic privileges and immunities — including their accompanying family members.

• Maximum Period of Stay: Duration of official assignment

• Visa Type: A-1 (Diplomatic)

🎯 Who Qualifies for an A-1 Visa?

1. Foreign diplomats accepted by the South Korean government

   • Ambassadors, ministers, counselors, secretaries, etc.

2. Foreign consular officers

   • Consuls general, consuls, etc.

3. Persons granted diplomatic privileges by treaty or international practice

   • Secretary-General or Deputy Secretary-General of the UN

   • Heads of UN specialized agencies

   • Heads of state, cabinet members, parliament chairs, and official delegations attending Korean government-hosted events

4. Family members of the above individuals

   • Spouse, children, and parents living in the same household

📝 Required Documents for A-1 Visa Issuance

• Completed visa application form

• Valid passport

• One standard passport-size photo

• Visa fee

• Certificate of assignment or employment, or an official cooperation letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the applicant’s country

If applying as a family member:

• Documents proving family relationship (e.g., family registry, birth certificate)

⚠️ If Engaging in Activities Outside Visa Scope (e.g., employment)

• Passport

• Integrated application form

• Fee: 120,000 KRW

  • Waived for accompanying family members of U.S. embassy personnel based on reciprocity

• Employment recommendation letter from the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs (required)

• Any additional documents required per specific eligibility

📌 Important Notes

• The A-1 visa grants diplomatic privileges and immunities under international law.

• Family members must submit official documents proving their relationship to the diplomat.

• Any activity outside the scope of diplomatic duties requires prior authorization from the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.