Medical Visa (C-3-3) for Treatment in Korea

What is the Korean C-3-3 medical visa?

Korea has a specific short-term visa category, C-3-3 , for foreigners who travel to Korea to receive medical treatment. It is often called the "medical tourism visa". It allows you to stay for a short, limited period to be examined and treated, and in some cases a companion can apply for a related visa.

For longer treatment that cannot be completed within a short stay, Korea has other visa types. Varicose vein treatment at LEDAS is same-day, so most patients only need a short trip. See how many days you need in Korea .

Do I need a medical visa for varicose vein treatment?

It depends mainly on your nationality and the length of your stay.

• Visa-free countries. Citizens of some countries can visit Korea for short stays without a visa. Some of them must obtain an electronic travel authorization before departure. Ask the Korean embassy whether short-term medical treatment is allowed under that status.
• Visa-required countries. Citizens of other countries need a visa to enter Korea. For travel mainly for treatment, the C-3-3 medical visa is usually the relevant category.
• Longer stays. If your total stay will be longer than a short visit, you may need a different visa.

Visa rules change, and exemptions can be introduced or withdrawn. Always confirm current rules with the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country, or with Korea's official visa portal, before you book flights.

How do I apply for a C-3-3 visa?

The process LEDAS describes follows four basic steps:

1. Application. Submit your application and documents to the Korean Embassy or Consulate, or online where available.
2. Reception and review. The authorities check your application. This can take some time, so apply early.
3. Issuance. If approved, the visa is issued.
4. Arrival in Korea. You travel and enter Korea for treatment.

Documents commonly requested

The exact list is set by the embassy, but medical visa applications often ask for:

• a valid passport and photo;
• a completed application form;
• a document from the Korean medical institution confirming your appointment or treatment plan;
• proof that you can pay for treatment and your stay;
• travel and accommodation details.

How can LEDAS help with my visa?

LEDAS does not issue visas, but the International Healthcare Center can:

• explain the general visa steps and point you to the right authority;
• provide documents confirming your consultation or planned treatment, once your dates are agreed;
• help you plan dates so your visa, flights and appointments line up. See hotel and flight booking help .

Start by sending an online consultation request. Once your coordinator has your details and dates, ask exactly which LEDAS documents your embassy needs.

Practical tips

• Apply early. Leave time for review and any extra requests.
• Make sure your passport is valid well beyond your return date.
• Keep copies of your visa and LEDAS documents with you when you travel.
• Book a flexible return ticket in case your doctor advises you to stay a little longer. See flying after vein treatment .
• Check that your travel insurance covers a trip made for treatment.

Visa planning timeline

Korea medical visa – frequently asked questions