When does the Korea visa start?

The start date of a Korea visa can vary depending on the type of visa, the issuing authority, and the applicant's intended travel dates. Here's a breakdown of how it typically works:

Start Date of a Korean Visa

For Most Short-Term Visas (e.g., tourist C-3, business):

The visa's validity period (issuance window) usually starts from the date of issuance, not from the date of entry.
The start date on the visa is typically the date it is issued by the consulate or embassy, and you must enter Korea within the validity period, which is often 3 months from the issuance date.
The allowed stay period (e.g., 30 or 90 days) begins upon entry into Korea.

For Long-Term Visas (e.g., work, study, F-series):

The visa issuance date is when the visa is printed.
You are typically required to enter Korea within 90 days from that issuance date.
The visa’s validity for entry and duration of stay may differ (e.g., a D-2 student visa might allow entry within 90 days, with a stay of 1 year or more).

📌 Example

If a C-3 tourist visa is issued on June 1, 2025:

Visa validity: June 1 to August 31, 2025 (3 months to enter).
If you enter Korea on June 15, 2025, and the visa allows a 30-day stay, you must leave by July 15, 2025.

Important Notes

Start date = issuance date, not travel date.
Entry must occur before the visa expiration date.
Stay period starts when you enter Korea, not on the visa issue date.