Hyderabad: Recently, an Indian influencer faced complications upon arriving in South Korea, sparking discussions about the entry rules for Jeju Island. Following this incident and others affecting Indian travelers, the Indian Embassy in Seoul released an advisory to clarify the existing guidelines.
The advisory doesn’t change the rules but highlights key points regarding documentation and financial readiness.
Jeju Island, located off South Korea’s southern coast, is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful landscapes and unique volcanic features. Unlike the rest of South Korea, Jeju has a special visa waiver program aimed at boosting tourism. Certain travelers can visit Jeju for short stays without needing a visa beforehand. However, this waiver only covers Jeju and doesn’t allow access to mainland South Korea.
Under this program, eligible visitors can enter Jeju as long as they clear immigration checks upon arrival at Jeju International Airport. Importantly, entry isn’t guaranteed; immigration officers have the final say.
For Indian passport holders, there are specific conditions. Travelers must arrive directly in Jeju and must show a genuine purpose for tourism. Traveling to mainland South Korea without a valid visa is not allowed and could lead to penalties, including restrictions on future travel.
The Indian Embassy’s advisory was issued to prevent potential issues for travelers. It pointed out that Indian nationals have reported inconveniences and even denial of entry under this scheme multiple times.
The advisory emphasizes that the Jeju visa waiver is strictly for short-term tourism and doesn’t ensure entry. Here’s what Indian travelers should have with them:
- A confirmed return ticket
- Hotel bookings for their entire stay
- A detailed day-wise travel plan
- Proof of sufficient funds (like recent bank statements)
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Contact details of their accommodation
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Travelers should also be financially prepared for their trip. Upon arrival, Korean immigration officers might interview visitors, so it’s crucial to respond honestly and calmly. Attempting to travel to mainland South Korea without a visa is illegal and could lead to future travel bans.
If an entry is denied, the traveler will be sent back on the next available flight. Depending on the flight schedule, they may need to stay temporarily in a holding area at the airport.
The embassy cannot change immigration decisions but can offer reasonable assistance if issues arise.
Overall, travelers should prepare thoroughly before heading to Jeju Island to avoid any hassles. Keeping updated with the latest guidelines and understanding the entry requirements can lead to a smoother travel experience.
For more details, you can refer to the Indian Embassy’s official advisories here.
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