The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines has announced a simplified visa application process for specific categories of Filipino applicants and their immediate family members. Starting from February 1 to December 31 of this year, certain individuals can benefit from reduced documentation requirements.
Professional license holders, including physicians, dentists, lawyers, CPAs, pharmacists, and veterinarians with valid Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID, will only need to submit their original certificate of employment and a copy of their PRC license ID or IBP ID for lawyers, judges, and prosecutors. Bank certificates, bank statements, and Income Tax Returns (ITR) are no longer mandatory. Proof of relationship for immediate family members is still required.
BDO Gold or BDO Elite credit card holders, excluding supplementary cardholders, will also experience simplified requirements. They need to submit their original certificate of employment, a copy of their credit card (front side with complete information), and their credit card monthly billing statements for the last three months. Like professional license holders, they are exempt from submitting bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR. Proof of relationship remains necessary.
Elected politicians, including governors, provincial board members, mayors, senators, and congress members, must submit their certificate of employment or certificate of appointment, along with complete disclosure of their affiliated organization, working period or term in office, position, and salary. Failure to provide this information may lead to disadvantages for the applicant. Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are no longer required, but proof of relationship is still essential.
Certain government officials holding positions equal to or higher than Assistant Secretary in the Executive Branch of the Philippine Government or Brigadier General in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) or Philippine National Police (PNP) must provide their certificate of employment and disclose affiliated organization, working period or term in office, position, and salary. Omitting this information may result in disadvantages. Bank certificates, bank statements, and ITR are optional, but proof of relationship is necessary.
This streamlined application process aims to facilitate travel to South Korea for qualified individuals and their immediate family members, making it easier to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of the country. Applicants are advised to ensure they meet the specific criteria outlined by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines to benefit from these simplified requirements.