Is it mandatory to present health insurance for the South Korean WHV?

Volare Global | February 15, 2026

Compliance with health standards is a non-negotiable pillar for obtaining the H-1 Visa in the Republic of Korea. Immigration authorities have standardized the requirements to ensure that every participant has a financial protection network against any medical or psychiatric eventuality during their stay.

Yes, it is mandatory to present medical insurance with a minimum coverage of 40,000,000 KRW; the policy must explicitly include Mental Illness and Repatriation clauses during the 12-month stay.

Technical Requirements Analysis

For the policy to be accepted by the consulate of South Korea, the document must accurately reflect the following technical points:

1. Coverage Threshold (40,000,000 KRW)

Unlike the requirements for the Schengen Area, South Korea requires a minimum amount of 40,000,000 KRW (Korean Won). This capital must cover both hospitalization and outpatient medical expenses. It is vital that the certificate issued by the insurance company mentions this figure in won or its exact equivalent in US dollars (USD) or euros (EUR) according to the current exchange rate.

2. Critical Clauses: Mental Health and Repatriation

This is the point where most applications are rejected. Most standard travel insurances omit these coverages, so an endorsement or annex must be requested that mentions:

• Mental Illness: Coverage for psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.

• Medical and Funerary Repatriation: Guarantee of transfer to the country of origin in case of serious illness or death.

• Specific cases: Countries such as Spain, France and Chili, have special requirements as Personal Liability. Moreover, is mandatory for Chileans to join the NHIS Korean National Security) from the 7th month of their stay.

  
  
  
  
  
  

3. Validity and Territorial Scope

The insurance must be active from the first day of arrival in Korea and maintain its validity for the entire 12 months of the visa. Policies that cover shorter periods or that require quarterly renewals are not valid for the initial visa process.