Korean Medical Tourism Visa & Insurance Guide for Skincare Visitors
Planning a trip to Seoul for dermatology treatments, laser procedures, or injectable fillers? Understanding your Korean medical tourism visa options and insurance coverage is one of the most important steps before booking your flight. South Korea welcomed over 1.17 million foreign patients in 2024 alone --- nearly double the previous year --- and the government continues to streamline entry for medical tourists. This guide covers everything you need to know about visas, visa-exempt entry, required documents, and insurance options so your skincare journey goes smoothly.
Do You Actually Need a Korean Medical Tourism Visa?
The short answer: probably not. Most international visitors coming for short-term skincare treatments (under 90 days) can enter South Korea without a dedicated medical visa. Here is how it works.
Visa-Exempt Entry (No Visa Needed)
Citizens of over 100 countries can enter South Korea visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. This covers tourism, business, and --- importantly --- elective medical or cosmetic procedures. If your skincare trip is under 90 days, visa-free entry is the simplest option.
Countries with 90-day visa-free entry include:
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand
- All European Union member states (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, etc.)
- Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand (varies by passport)
- Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Colombia
- South Africa, Israel, UAE, Saudi Arabia
Countries with 30-day visa-free entry include:
- Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, India (select conditions)
- Several African and Central Asian nations
K-ETA Note: The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) requirement has been temporarily exempted for citizens of 67 countries through the end of 2025, and the exemption for U.S. passport holders extends through December 31, 2026. Check the Korea Immigration Service website for the latest updates before traveling.
Visa Types for Medical Tourism: Comparison Table
If you do need a visa --- or plan a longer stay --- here are the main options:
| Feature | Visa-Free / Tourist (C-3-1) | Medical Tourism Visa (C-3-3) | Treatment & Recuperation (G-1-10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration | Up to 90 days | Up to 90 days | Over 91 days (up to 1 year) |
| Best For | Quick treatments, consultations | Planned surgeries, multiple sessions | Extended recovery, ongoing treatment |
| Application | No visa needed (eligible countries) | Korean embassy/consulate | Korean embassy/consulate |
| Processing Fee | Free (visa-exempt) / ~$40-$50 (C-3-1) | ~$40-$80 (₩52,000-₩104,000) | ~$80-$120 (₩104,000-₩156,000) |
| Companion Visa | Not included | Spouse & direct family eligible | Spouse & direct family eligible |
| Extension | Possible with status change | Possible with documentation | Renewable with medical proof |
When to Choose C-3-3 (Medical Tourism Visa)
The C-3-3 visa is specifically designed for medical tourists and is worth considering if:
- Your country does not have a visa-exempt agreement with South Korea
- You want official documentation that you are entering for medical purposes
- You have pre-paid treatment costs of ₩10,000,000 ($7,700) or more
- You plan multiple procedures requiring a structured treatment schedule
- You have visited Korea twice or more on a C-3-3 visa previously (expedited processing)
Required Documents for C-3-3
- Visa application form (completed and signed)
- Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining validity)
- Passport-size photo (1 recent photo, standard specifications)
- Medical documentation --- diagnosis letter, doctor's referral, or treatment plan from a Korean or home-country medical institution
- Appointment confirmation from a registered Korean medical institution
- Proof of financial ability --- bank statements showing sufficient funds for treatment costs and living expenses
- Family relationship documents (if applying for a companion visa)
Insurance Options for Medical Tourists in Korea
Understanding your insurance situation is critical. Here is the key fact: elective cosmetic and skincare procedures in South Korea are not covered by Korea's National Health Insurance (NHIS), even for Korean citizens. This means you will pay out of pocket for treatments like Botox, fillers, laser toning, Shurink, and Rejuran --- regardless of your visa status.
Do You Need Insurance?
Travel insurance is not legally mandatory for short-term visitors to South Korea, but it is strongly recommended. Here is why:
- Unexpected medical emergencies (illness, injury unrelated to your procedure) can be extremely expensive without coverage
- Complications from procedures, while rare at reputable clinics, may require additional medical care
- Trip cancellation or interruption insurance protects your investment if plans change
- Emergency medical evacuation coverage is essential for peace of mind
Insurance Options Compared
| Insurance Type | Estimated Cost | Elective Procedure Coverage | Emergency Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Insurance (Allianz, World Nomads) | $50-$150 for 2 weeks | No | Yes (up to $100,000-$250,000) | Budget travelers |
| International Health Insurance (Cigna, Bupa, Aetna) | $200-$500/month | Some plans, partially | Yes (up to $1,000,000+) | Extended stays |
| Clinic-Arranged Insurance | ₩50,000-₩200,000 ($38-$154) | Limited complications coverage | Limited | Patients using agencies |
| Credit Card Travel Insurance | Free (with eligible card) | No | Yes (limited, typically $50,000) | Supplementary coverage |
Recommended Insurance Strategy
For a typical 1-2 week skincare trip:
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance from your home country before departure --- look for plans with at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage
- Verify your credit card benefits --- many premium cards include travel medical insurance
- Ask your clinic if they offer or recommend any supplementary insurance for procedure-related complications
- Keep all receipts --- Korean clinics provide detailed receipts that can be used for insurance claims or tax deductions in some countries
Key Insurance Providers with Korea Hospital Networks
Several international insurers have direct billing agreements with major Korean hospitals, meaning you will not need to pay upfront for emergency care:
- Cigna Global --- direct billing at major university hospitals in Seoul
- Aetna International --- network coverage across Korean hospitals
- Bupa Global --- widely accepted at premium medical facilities
- Allianz Care --- strong travel insurance with Korean hospital networks
Important: Direct billing typically applies only to emergency and medically necessary care at network hospitals, not to elective cosmetic clinics. For skincare procedures, plan to pay out of pocket and submit claims afterward if your policy covers any portion.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Entry
Before You Fly
- Check your passport validity --- must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Print your clinic appointment confirmation --- immigration officers may ask about the purpose of your visit
- Carry proof of accommodation --- hotel booking or Airbnb confirmation
- Have a return ticket --- required for visa-free entry
- Download your insurance policy --- keep a digital and printed copy accessible
- Exchange currency --- Korean clinics accept cash (KRW), credit cards, and some accept international wire transfers; exchange rates at Incheon Airport are reasonable for small amounts
At Immigration
- When asked about your visit purpose, it is perfectly fine to say "tourism" or "medical tourism"
- Visa-free visitors receive a 90-day landing permit stamp
- You do not need to declare specific treatments at immigration
- Keep your clinic's name and address handy in case officers ask for details
Estimated Costs Summary
| Item | Estimated Cost (KRW) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| C-3-3 Visa Application Fee | ₩52,000-₩104,000 | $40-$80 |
| Travel Insurance (2 weeks) | ₩65,000-₩195,000 | $50-$150 |
| International Health Insurance (monthly) | ₩260,000-₩650,000 | $200-$500 |
| Airport Transfer (Incheon to Seoul) | ₩10,000-₩70,000 | $8-$54 |
| Typical Skincare Treatment | ₩200,000-₩1,500,000 | $154-$1,154 |
Prices as of February 2026, using an exchange rate of approximately ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get skincare treatments in Korea on a tourist visa or visa-free entry? A: Yes. Visa-free entry and standard tourist visas (C-3-1) are perfectly valid for receiving elective cosmetic and dermatological treatments. You do not need a special medical visa for short-term skincare procedures.
Q: Do I need a C-3-3 medical tourism visa for Botox, fillers, or laser treatments? A: No. The C-3-3 visa is designed for patients undergoing more extensive medical procedures or those from countries without visa-exempt agreements. For routine skincare treatments under 90 days, visa-free entry is sufficient for eligible nationalities.
Q: Will my travel insurance cover complications from cosmetic procedures in Korea? A: Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover elective cosmetic procedures or their complications. However, they will cover unrelated medical emergencies during your trip. Check your policy carefully, and ask your clinic about complication coverage options.
Q: What happens if I need to stay longer than 90 days for recovery? A: You can apply for a status change or extension at a local immigration office in Korea. You will need medical documentation from your treating physician explaining the need for extended stay. Alternatively, if you anticipate a longer recovery, apply for a G-1-10 (Treatment & Recuperation) visa before traveling.
Q: Is the K-ETA still required for entering South Korea? A: The K-ETA requirement is currently exempted for citizens of 67 countries through 2025, and the exemption for U.S. citizens has been extended through December 2026. Check the official K-ETA website for the latest status before your trip.
Q: Can my family member travel with me on a medical visa? A: Yes. The C-3-3 and G-1-10 visas allow your spouse and direct family members (parents, children) to apply for companion visas. They will need to submit family relationship documents along with the standard visa application materials.
Conclusion
For most international skincare visitors, entering South Korea is remarkably straightforward. Citizens of over 100 countries can arrive visa-free for up to 90 days --- more than enough time for consultations, treatments, and recovery. The C-3-3 medical tourism visa exists for those who need it, but the majority of skincare tourists will never need to apply.
The more important preparation is on the insurance side. Since Korean national health insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures for anyone, having solid travel insurance for emergencies and understanding your out-of-pocket costs are essential steps. Budget for your treatments, secure travel insurance with strong medical coverage, and keep all documentation organized.
Ready to plan your Seoul skincare trip? Browse our treatment guides for detailed information on procedures, prices, and recommended clinics across Seoul.
Last Updated: February 12, 2026 Reading Time: 8 minutes