No more online advance reservations for Korean visa applications starting January 2025

Online advance reservations for a Korean visa will no longer be available in 2025.

The Taguig-based Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) said in a Facebook post on Nov. 28 that online advance reservations will be discontinued starting Jan. 1, noting that all applicants with an online reservation for January 2025 can still use their booking as it remains valid.

The center said applicants who wish to apply for a Korean visa have three options. They may use a courier service via WExpress, which the KVAC allowed in May, or turn to the KVAC's designated travel agencies in several parts of Metro Manila. The list can be found on the center's website. They may likewise resort to a walk-in application. The KVAC is accepting walk-ins from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during weekdays.

"We are committed to providing excellent service during this transition. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation," the KVAC said.

The KVAC announced the availability of online reservation slots starting Aug. 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. through its website. There were six slots per hour.

Advance online reservations were available two months from the booking date.

The KVAC website has been catering to online bookings for visa application slots, but online reservation periods have been so long due to the volume of applicants.

The move was a bid to help reduce their waiting time.

If you're not sure about the documents needed for your application, check out our guide on What you'll need to apply for a South Korean visa.