Applying for a Hong Kong Tourist Visa from South Korea: Step-by-Step Guide

Hong Kong, a vibrant blend of Eastern and Western cultures, attracts millions of tourists each year with its stunning skyline, rich history, bustling markets, and world-class attractions. Whether you’re planning to explore its iconic landmarks like Victoria Peak or experience its vibrant nightlife, securing the appropriate visa is the first step for travelers who require one.

For foreign residents in South Korea, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Hong Kong tourist visa process, including visa types, required documents, and how to apply.

Who Needs a Hong Kong Tourist Visa?

While many nationalities can enter Hong Kong visa-free, travelers from certain countries must obtain a visa in advance. Nationals from countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam are among those who need pre-approval for entry. In addition to these six countries, citizens from numerous others also require a visa. To confirm whether your nationality requires a visa, check the official Hong Kong Immigration Department portal (https://www.immd.gov.hk/).

Note: Visa rules often change, so before applying for a visa by following this guide, it is advisable to contact the relevant embassy or consulate office for the most up-to-date information.

eVisa vs. Sticker Visa: Which One Should You Apply For?

Hong Kong offers two visa options for tourists, depending on your nationality and travel needs:

1. eVisa

• Eligibility: Designed for travelers from specific countries listed on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.
• Processing: Applications are completed online, with documents uploaded digitally.
• Validity: Typically a single-entry visa, allowing a stay of up to 14 days.
• Convenience: Faster and more straightforward than the sticker visa process.

2. Sticker Visa

• Eligibility: Required for travelers from non-eVisa-eligible countries or for those requiring additional flexibility in their visa (e.g., double-entry or extended stays).
• Processing: Applications must be submitted in person at a CVASC or directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
• Purpose: Suitable for tourists, business visitors, or those with specific travel needs.
• Flexibility: Offers multiple entry options and can accommodate longer stays.

For travelers from visa-required countries, advanced planning is essential to avoid delays and ensure a smooth application process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Hong Kong Tourist Visa in South Korea

Step 1: Confirm Your Visa Type and Gather Required Documents

Depending on your nationality and travel purpose, determine whether you qualify for an eVisa or need a sticker visa. Prepare the following documents to ensure a smooth application process:

General Document Checklist

1. Passport
   • A clear, colored scan of the biometric page (for eVisa) or the original passport (for sticker visa).
   • The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
2. Visa Application Form Available on the CVASC website or at the visa center.
   • Handwritten forms are not accepted. Complete the form online and print it.
3. Alien Registration Card (ARC) –
   • A valid ARC issued by South Korean authorities, with at least six months’ validity remaining.
4. Passport Photo
   • A recent photo (taken within the last six months).
   • Must have a white background, standard size: 35mm x 45mm.
5. Travel Itinerary
   • Planned entry and exit dates.
   • Details of intended places to visit.
6. Flight Tickets
   • Round-trip flight tickets or booking confirmations (booking copies acceptable).
7. Accommodation Details
   • Hotel booking confirmations or an invitation letter from a host in Hong Kong.
8. Cover Letter
   • A letter explaining the purpose of your visit and your travel plans.
9. Tax Return Certificate
   • A copy of your most recent year’s tax return certificate.
10. Entry/Exit Certificate (입출국 사실 증명서)
    • A certificate showing your travel history, issued by your local community center.
11. Bank Statement (계좌 메인 통지)
    • Last three months’ bank statements showing a minimum balance of 2,000,000 KRW.
12. Employment Certificate
    • A document verifying your employment in South Korea, issued by your employer.

Additional Documents That May Be Required

Depending on your nationality or travel circumstances, additional documents may be asked for by the China Visa Center:

• Trade License (for business owners).
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) or Leave Papers (for employees).
• Previous Visa Copies or photos from past trips.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Submit your documents in person at a CVASC in South Korea. Unlike some other visa processes, you do not need an appointment for sticker visa applications at CVASC. Walk-ins are accepted during business hours.

Chinese Visa Application Service Centers in South Korea

Here is a detailed breakdown of the Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVASC) in South Korea, where you can submit your Hong Kong tourist visa application:

Seoul CVASC

• Address: 3F Namsan Square Building, 173 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Phone: 02-750-9600
• Email: namsansquarecenter@visaforchina.org
• Business Hours:
  • Submission of Applications: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays)
  • Collection of Passports: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Busan CVASC

• Address: 203 Heundeok Building, 83 Jungang-daero, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
• Phone: 051-708-6780
• Email: busancenter@visaforchina.org
• Business Hours:
  • Submission of Applications: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays)
  • Collection of Passports: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

How to Get There:
Take Subway Line 1 to Jungang Station, Exit 14. The Heundeok Building is about a 5-minute walk from the exit.

Gwangju CVASC

• Address: 7th Floor, Kyobo Building, Numundong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, South Korea
• Phone: 062-529-1810 / 062-606-8800
• Fax: 062-529-1815
• Email: gwangjucenter@visaforchina.org
• Business Hours:
  • Submission of Applications: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays)
  • Payment and Collection: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

How to Get There:
Take Subway Line 1 to Gwangju Station, then transfer to local buses heading to the Kyobo Building.

Jeju CVASC

• Address: 502 Hana Building, No. 720-1 Nohyeong-dong, Jeju City, Jeju, South Korea
• Phone: 064-742-1811
• Fax: 064-742-1710
• Email: jejucentre@visaforchina.org
• Business Hours:
  • Submission of Applications: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays)
  • Payment and Collection: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

How to Get There:
From Jeju International Airport, take a taxi or local bus to Nohyeong-dong. The Hana Building is well-known and easy to locate.

Additional Information for All CVASC Locations

• Walk-In Policy: No prior appointment is required for submitting applications at any CVASC location in South Korea.
• Postal Services: If you prefer not to return to collect your passport in person, you can request postal delivery at the time of application submission (additional fees apply).
• Accepted Payment Methods: Payments can be made using cash or credit card. Confirm with the specific CVASC for exact payment policies.
• Public Holidays: CVASCs observe both South Korean and Chinese public holidays. Check the official website for updates on closure dates.

Step 3: Application Processing

After submission, your application will be forwarded to the Hong Kong Immigration Department for processing. Here’s what to expect:

• Applications are reviewed by the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
• Processing takes a minimum of 3–4 weeks, though it may take longer during peak travel seasons.

Sticker Visa Fees

• Visa Application Fee: 35,000 KRW
• Forwarding Fee: 20,000 KRW
• Service Fee: 20,000 KRW

Note: Additional fees may apply for postal services if you choose to have your passport returned via mail.

Visa Validity and Rules

Once your visa is approved, it is essential to understand its validity and rules to ensure compliance during your travel.

• Single Entry: Valid for three months, allowing stays of up to 14 days.
• Double Entry: Valid for three months, with a maximum stay of 14 days per entry.
• Multiple Entry: Valid for six months or longer, depending on the visa type.

Remember, overstaying your visa in Hong Kong can result in penalties and future travel restrictions. Plan your trip accordingly to ensure you leave the territory within the permitted duration.

Important Note: Hong Kong immigration does not stamp your passport upon entry. Instead, they provide an entry receipt when you cross immigration. Keep this receipt safely as it serves as proof of your legal entry into Hong Kong.

The best and cheapest Hotel recommendation’s for Hongkong

• Delta Lounge – starting from 18usd per night
• Hi Backpackers (Hong Kong Hostel Group) – starting from 18usd per night
• Yesinn @YMT – starting from 20usd per night
• Soso Hostel – starting from 21usd per night
• Check Inn HK – starting from 21usd per night

Visiting Both Macao and Hong Kong on the Same Trip

Many travelers plan to visit both Hong Kong and Macao in a single trip. Here’s how to streamline the visa process and manage travel logistics:

Combined Visa Applications

• You can apply for both Hong Kong and Macao visas simultaneously through the CVASC.
• This approach simplifies the submission process but requires careful coordination of required documents and fees.

Key Tip: You must provide separate copies of the required documents for each country, as their requirements may vary.

Travel Timeline and Preparation

• Begin your application process at least one month before your intended travel date, especially if applying for both Macao and Hong Kong visas.
• Double-check all required documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Missing or incorrect information can result in delays or rejections.
• Be aware that applications sent to Hong Kong or Macao for additional processing may take longer, so plan your trip accordingly.

Travel Between Macao and Hong Kong

The two destinations are well-connected, making it easy to travel between them:

• By Ferry: Frequent ferry services operate between the two regions, offering a convenient and scenic travel option.
• By Bridge: The iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge provides a modern alternative, allowing direct road travel between the destinations.

Budget Considerations

While applying for both visas saves logistical effort, it may increase your expenses slightly due to separate fees for each visa. Additionally, Macao is known for its higher living costs, so ensure your budget accounts for accommodation, dining, and transportation expenses during your visit.

Important Tips for a Smooth Application Process

To avoid delays or complications during your visa application process, consider the following tips:

1. Apply Early
   Begin your application process at least one month before your intended travel date. This is especially important for those applying for both Hong Kong and Macao visas.
2. Prepare Documents Carefully
   Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate. Double-check for missing information or errors that could delay the approval process.
3. Monitor Processing Times
   Be aware of typical processing times for your chosen visa type. Applications requiring additional scrutiny may take longer, so plan your travel dates accordingly.
4. Plan Multi-Destination Trips
   If visiting multiple destinations, such as Hong Kong and Macao, create a detailed travel itinerary. Include key dates and locations to satisfy visa requirements for both regions.
5. Budget Appropriately
   Account for all visa fees, travel costs, and potential extra expenses such as accommodation and dining. Ensure that your financial documents reflect sufficient funds to support your trip.

Conclusion

Applying for a Hong Kong tourist visa from South Korea is straightforward with proper preparation. Whether you opt for the faster eVisa process or the more flexible sticker visa, understanding the requirements and following the outlined steps ensures a smooth application experience.

By planning ahead, gathering the necessary documents, and selecting the right visa type for your needs, you’ll be well on your way to exploring Hong Kong’s breathtaking culture, iconic attractions, and unique experiences. If you’re also planning to visit Macao, this guide will help you streamline your plans for a memorable multi-destination journey.

With your visa secured, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Hong Kong. Safe travels!