Application Process for the WHV of South Korea?

Volare Global | February 15, 2026

South Korea has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations for young people looking to combine tourism with work experience. The Working Holiday Visa (H-1) program allows citizens from various countries to reside in the country for a period of up to one year.

1. Standard Process (For 80% of countries)

For the vast majority of nations with a current agreement, the process is digital and efficient. If your country is not listed in the special categories below, this is the workflow you should follow:

• Platform: The application is carried out entirely via the Korea Visa Portal.

• Approval Time: The response period is usually 15 to 30 days.

• Visa Format: A digital visa is issued (no sticker in the passport). Once approved, you can download the document directly from the portal.

• Post-Arrival Management: It is mandatory to book an appointment at HiKorea.kr upon arrival in the country to process the ARC (Alien Registration Card), which is your official identification as a temporary resident.

2. Differences by Specific Groups

There are important variations depending on bilateral agreements or the administrative logistics of certain consulates.

Countries with KVAC Center (United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Netherlands)

In these countries, management is not handled directly with the consulate but through an official intermediary.

• Process: Application via the Visa Portal, but with document submission or collection at the KVAC center.

• Additional Cost: Requires payment of an extra fee for the center's service.

• Approval: 15 to 30 days.

• Format: Digital visa.

• Upon Arrival: Mandatory appointment booking at HiKorea.kr for the ARC process.

United States

U.S. citizens have a fundamental prerequisite before starting the visa process.

• Prerequisite: Requires prior WEST sponsorship to apply.

• Process: Once sponsorship is obtained, the application is processed via the Portal.

• Approval: Estimated time is approximately 30 days.

• Format: Digital visa.

• Upon Arrival: Mandatory appointment at HiKorea.kr to obtain the ARC card.

Spain and Chile

Due to the strictness of the consulates in Madrid, Barcelona, and Santiago, full digitization does not apply during the submission phase.

• Main Requirement: Mandatory in-person appointment. These consulates are the most rigorous regarding physical presence and do not accept applications via mail.

• Process: Starts via the Portal.

• Approval: 15 to 30 days.

• Format: Digital visa.

• Upon Arrival: Appointment booking at HiKorea.kr to manage the ARC.