🇰🇷 A-3 Visa (Agreement-Based Visa) – Official Guide by the Government of South Korea

✅ What is the A-3 Visa?

The A-3 Visa is issued to individuals exempt from foreigner registration under an official bilateral or multilateral agreement with the Government of South Korea, as well as to their accompanying family members.

This visa category includes those covered under:

• SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement): Agreement between South Korea and the United States under Article IV of the Mutual Defense Treaty regarding the status, facilities, and areas of U.S. Forces stationed in Korea

• Fulbright Agreement: Memorandum of Understanding between the governments of South Korea and the United States concerning educational exchange

• Maximum Period of Stay: Duration of status or period specified in the agreement

• Visa Type: A-3 (Agreement-Based)

🎯 Who Qualifies for the A-3 Visa?

• Individuals exempt from foreigner registration or deemed to require exemption under an agreement with the South Korean government

• Immediate family members (spouse, children, parents) of the above

📝 Required Documents for A-3 Visa Application

When applying for the visa:

• Completed visa application form

• Valid passport

• One standard passport-size photo

• Visa fee

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

⚠️ Required Documents for Activities Outside of Visa Status (e.g., employment)

• Form No. 34 (designated application form)

• Passport

• Fee

• Certificate of service or duty confirmation

• SOFA ID card

• Supporting documents related to visa status

  • If the applicant is a sponsor, a letter of consent from the affiliated organization or employer is required

📌 Important Notes

• The A-3 Visa is designed for foreign nationals under international agreements, typically including military personnel, scholars, or staff of international programs

• Foreign registration is not required for A-3 visa holders

• Family members are granted the same privileges as the principal holder

• Additional permissions are required for employment or other activities outside visa scope