I love K-Dramas. There’s just so much creativity, history, and ingenuity in every show. As such, I’ve long wanted to visit South Korea, but was put off by the requirements. South Korea requires 3-month bank statements on top of a bank certificate, unlike Japan which only require a bank certificate. That means you can’t just have a huge amount deposited in one go. Add that to the ridiculous amount of money people say you need to have in your bank account (₱100,000+ or $2,000+).
So when I found out about the BDO / BPI Credit Card Multiple-Entry Visa Promo, I was stoked!
How does it work? Basically, if you have an eligible credit card, you don’t have to submit an ITR /income documents, and bank certificate.
At that time, I only had a BPI Gold supplementary card (with my Mom as a principal cardholder), and when I emailed BPI about it, they said supplementary cardholders cannot avail of the promo. I was sad.
Good thing, the credit card promo was extended until December 31, 2019.
A note before we start: If you’re in the Philippines and you’re on PLDT wifi, you might notice the Korean embassy website is usually down. Same thing happened to me when I was preparing for my visa application last February 2018. Use another internet provider or use your mobile data. You can also change the DNS settings in your laptop/smartphone.
Which credit cards can I use to apply for South Korea visa?
Take note, not all BDO and BPI credit cards can be used for visa application.
For BDO Cardholders:
See full terms and conditions here, on the BDO website.
Photo by International Journeys
For BPI Cardholders:
You can read more about the promo here: http://www.bpicards.com/realthrills/details/7399.
Important Note for both BDO and BPI Cardholders:
NOTE: When photocopying your credit card, make sure to blot out the CVV code (which is the 3-digit number) at the back of your card. Or just photocopy the FRONT side only.
You’re probably wondering why the Korean Embassy is offering this promo..
All those credit cards listed above are either Gold or Elite (Titanium / Platinum) cards. To give you an idea, the income requirement to be able to apply for a BDO Gold Visa/MasterCard is ₱ 420,000 gross annual income. And the banks are quite strict about asking for an ITR, especially if it’s your first credit card.
So what if you don’t have any of those credit cards mentioned above? And you don’t have an ITR?
Read on to find out how.. 🙂
What about online freelancers / business owners who don’t have an ITR?
I always encourage Filipino freelancers to register with the BIR and pay taxes. But if you feel like you don’t earn consistently enough to register your freelance business, or for whatever other reason you may have, don’t fret.
There’s still a way.. Keep reading 😉
I don’t have a BDO / BPI Gold or Elite Card. Can I still get a multiple-entry visa?
Having to apply for a visa every time you visit a country is a pain, so I can totally understand if you want to get a multiple-entry visa.
Based on the Korean Embassy website, the following are eligible for a multiple-entry visa:
A Quick Note on ITR (Income Tax Return) / Income Documents
When I requested my accountant to process my 2017 Income Tax Return, she said that my declared annual income is way too low for a US Visa Application.. then she offered to “make” one for me for ₱6,000 ($115). I declined, of course
If you don’t have an ITR to provide, or you think your declared income is too low, you might be tempted to just hire an accountant / bookkeeper to “cook” an ITR for you.
Don’t.
Please don’t.
The consequences of getting caught submitting forged/false documents is just too great. It’s a risk not worth taking. If you apply and get denied, you can always reapply. But when falsify documents, you might be blacklisted and it’ll be more difficult for you when you apply for visas in the future.
Recently, the Korean Embassy has required ALL SELF-EMPLOYED applicants applying in Window 1 & 2 to submit BIR form WITH the payment receipt from BIR authorised bank.
This means that if (1) you haven’t visited OECD countries as a TOURIST in the last 5 years, (2) you haven’t travelled to South Korea before, (3) or even if you did, you’ve ONLY been to South Korea ONCE before, and (4) you’re not applying under the BDO / BPI Credit Card promo, you’ll be applying in Window 1 & 2.
I believe this is because the Korean Embassy is now aware of such fake ITR schemes.
What are OECD Member Countries?
For more info, visit their website here. Or take a look at the List of OECD Member countries below:
What if you have a tourist visa to an OECD country but haven’t used it?
Only those who have actually travelled as a TOURIST to an OECD member country (like Japan & US) are exempted from submitting ITR and can apply at Window 3 (for frequent travellers). If you have an unused visa, you’re considered a ‘first time traveller’ and should apply in Window 1 or 2.
So for example, you have a US Tourist Visa but you haven’t travelled to the US yet, you’re considered a ‘first time traveller’ even if you’ve been to other Asian countries like Singapore, Hongkong/China, Thailand.
How to Get a South Korea Tourist Visa Without Submitting an ITR
If you:
- haven’t travelled to South Korea before,
- haven’t travelled as a tourist to any of the OECD countries in the past 5 years
- if you don’t have an ITR,
- don’t have a BDO / BPI Gold and Elite credit card
.. there’s still hope for you 😉
Assuming you have a consistent source of income, you can still apply for a South Korea Tourist visa even without an ITR or income documents.
I just found out about this recently from Liane Laroya. Apparently, you can get a “secured credit card”. A secured credit card is when you deposit money to the bank, and then they issue you a credit card that has a credit limit of 80% of the deposited amount. Say for example, you deposited ₱100,000, they will give you a credit card with ₱80,000 credit limit.
What’s the catch?
You can’t withdraw the money you deposited.
I’ve known about secured credit cards before, but I didn’t know that you can get a GOLD credit card with it. But Liane did. (You can read more about her experience here.) She was able to get a BDO Gold Visa card by depositing ₱65,000 (she got a credit limit of ₱52,000, which is 80%).
Yes, it requires money (I did assume you have consistent source of income 😉 ), but it’s not going anywhere. It’s still yours. Think of it as forced savings.
If you want to go this route, you can inquire at your BDO / BPI branch of account. Best of luck!
Here’s my multiple-entry visa for South Korea, valid for 5 years! 🙂 Sweet!
Requirements:
Basically, the requirements are the same with single-issue visas. The only difference is that you DO NOT have to submit an ITR / income documents, bank certificate (“show money”), bank statements, and the Company Alpha List (which is a new requirement as of March 26, 2018.)
In lieu of those exempted documents, you are required to submit (1) the latest and ORIGINAL credit card bill/ statement of account, (2) a photocopy of your credit card, and (3) to bring the actual card.
Additional Requirements for First Time Travellers
Requirements for Employees:
Requirements for Business Owners:
What are the requirements for self-employed / freelancers?
You’re in between an employed person and a business owner. Technically, the requirements are the same with both. The only difference is the income documents.
Just submit what you have. I don’t have a business permit/mayor’s permit (as I don’t have an office/physical storefront), and I don’t have SEC or DTI documents (I didn’t register a business name, I’m ‘self-employed’ operating under my own name.) Instead, I submitted a copy of my BIR Certificate of Registration.
How much does the visa costs?
The Cost of Applying For a South Korea Visa
For those availing of the credit card promo, you don’t have to pay anything; it’s free. 🙂
When applying for single-use visa, it’s also free unless you’re staying more than 59 days. Perfect for digital nomads who want to explore a country longer 🙂 The only thing is, South Korea is just much more expensive compared to most of Asia!
My multiple entry visa allows me to stay in South Korea for up to 30 days at a time. Still not bad 😉
Steps in Applying For South Korean Tourist Visa:
- Download the form here: from the Korean Embassy website. They will provide the forms inside the embassy, but it’s better to fill it up beforehand so you won’t miss anything.
- Paste a passport size picture on the application form. You can go to most ID picture shops and request for Korean Visa package, and they’ll know what to do.
- Compile all requirements listed above.
- Go to the Korean Embassy. They’re open from Monday to Friday. Visa application is only from 8:30-11am only. Be sure to arrive early (before 10am, if possible) to give time for the visa procedures.
- Wait for your visa. After you submit your application, you’ll be given a piece of paper which says when to come back to collect your passport. For those who availed of the credit card promo, you’ll get your passport in 3 days.
- Get your visa. 🙂 It is still up to the discretion of the consul whether to grant or deny you a visa, but assuming you complied with the requirements to the best of your ability, and are a ‘legitimate tourist’, you’ll most likely be approved.
I’ve travelled to Korea before, do I still need a visa?
Yes, but the requirements are less.
If you have travelled to Korea as a TOURIST at least once in the past 5 years, you’re exempt from submitting ITR. You still have to apply in Window 1 or 2 (first time travellers) but processing time is reduced to 3 days instead of 5.
For previous visits to Korea other than TOURISM, such as business, church visit, family visit, you are still required to submit an ITR, apply in Window 1 or 2, and visa processing time is 5 days.
Those who have visited Korea more than 2 times within the past 4 years are exempt from submitting ITR, and can apply at Window 3 (frequent travellers).
For Family Members Applying Together
If you’re applying together with a family member, take note of this:
Applying for a South Korean Visa through a Travel Agency
You’ve probably seen travel agencies advertising a South Korea tour package, with visa application included. Yes, it’s possible for them to offer that since you can have a representative file it on your behalf.
There are designated travel agencies authorized by the South Korea Embassy to process group visas. You can see the list here: Designated Travel Agencies for the Processing of Group Visa and E-Group Visa
Where to Apply for a South Korea visa?
Manila
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines
Address : 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
It’s along the road going from SM Aura to Venice Grand Canal at McKinley Hill.
Cebu
You can also apply for a South Korea Visa in Cebu. But take note, they have a different visa procedure (opening times, processing takes longer, etc.). Visit the website of the Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Cebu for more up-to-date info.
Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Cebu
Address : 12th Floor Chinabank Corporate Center, Lot 2, Samar Loop Cor. Road 5, Cebu Business Park, Mabolo, Cebu City
How about you? Do you have other questions not discussed above?
Leave a comment below and I’ll my best to answer it. Please note, I’m only basing this on my own visa application experience. I’m not a tour agency, nor a visa expert.
You can also check out other Filipino bloggers who have posted about this:
- How to Get Multiple Entry Visa to Korea Without ITR and Bank Certificate by TheBackpackCouple
- Free Multiple-Entry South Korean Visa for Philippine Passport Holders by ChasingJayce
- How to get a multiple-entry visa to Korea with your BDO or BPI Credit Card by Erica
- How to Get a Multiple-Entry Visa to South Korea up to 5 years Without Submitting ITR and Bank Statements by Annyeong Oppa
- Korean Visa For Filipinos by Jan Is Cooking — *with lots of FAQs answered!
- How I Got My Multiple Entry Korean Tourist Visa in the Philippines by Kim
- How Filipinos Can Get A South Korea Tourist Visa With No Income Tax Return (ITR) by Charmaine
100 comments
Thanks for this informative post, Gie! <3
Thanks for dropping by, Lianne! 🙂
I’m so glad I came across your blog post on how to get an eligible without an ITR. I already told my cousin. She’s put off by the cash deposit requirement (haha), but hopefully in the future.
Hai. I wanna ask something regarding with the korean visa application. I am a teacher to one the esl schools here in Philippines, and I was invited by a korean family to live in their place and be a tutor to them. Is there a possibility that I can get a working visa with this kind of situation?
Hello! I am an ofw here in S.Korea but I am going back to the Philippines next month. I am planning to apply for a Korean visa when I get home so I can come back here to explore ( things I can’t do because of my work).
The thing is when I go back to the Philippines I will not have any cert of employment and i don’t have BIR as well because my contract here is already finished. I do teach online tho, will it work if I will ask my students to give me a cover letter telling that I am working for them? Can it be serve as my cert of employment? And I also dont have an ITR because as an OFW i am excempted in paying tax. One last thing, if I will apply for a those eligible credit card, will they accept it even if it’s only a newly opened account?
Hi Aira,
I don’t know about your specific situation, best to ask the agency that processes visa application or the South Korean Embassy.
But for credit cards, even if it’s a new one, as long as you get the first statement, that’s what counts. Make sure to use it first, pay for groceries or Grab so there’s something reflected in the statement.
[…] Visa […]
[…] Visa […]
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Hi. I just wanna ask, what if you’re a supplemetary of your mom on bdo gold credit card? Are you still qualified for the promo?
I asked BDO this when I went to my branch of account, but they said no. BDO Supplementary cardholders are not eligible. But for BPI supplementary cardholders, you can still apply. I don’t know why they’re different. You can email the Korean embassy to be sure.
Or if you’re applying for a Korean visa with your Mom, then perhaps you can 🙂
Hi, Gie! Just want to clarify your answer to your post here. How exactly did you get a multiple entry visa to South Korea? Did you get a qualified credit card soon? Or they automatically gave it to you after submitting all the required documents? 🙂
Hi Johan,
I have a qualified credit card from BDO 🙂 which is why I qualified for the promo.
But I believe you can get a multiple entry visa even in your FIRST application if: (1) you have a “high income” (PHP400K+ per year on your ITR), or (2) 300-400K+ in your show money (of course, you have to justify where you get such income/savings), and/or (3) you’ve been to Schengen countries, UK, US, Australia, Canada (and with valid/used visa).
Hi Gie,
I’d like to clarify something. Since you’ve qualified for the credit card promo, did you submit your original credit card + photocopy (both sides of the credit card/front side only)? How is security of card details ensured? Thank you!
Hi Vanessa,
I did photocopy the front and back of the card, but I used a black marker to hide the CVV number at the back of the card. When I submitted my application at the embassy in Manila, they didn’t ask me to show the actual credit card, but I brought it with me just in case they ask for it.
Best of luck in your application!
[…] Visa […]
hi! how do you get your bdo statement? i dont have the original statement because im receiving it thru email. can the branch certify a true copy?
You can request to have it printed out for you at your branch of account. I receive my statement both through email and by post (printed copy).
Hi Gie, thanks for this. This is very helpful, My question is can i get my BPI credit card statement of account from any of their branches?
You should be able to request for a copy of your credit card statement at any branch. But I’m not sure if they’ll charge for printing.
hello gie!
Thank you for the info! Few questions though:
(1) My sister and i will be planning to go to sokor this coming november. She’s an ofw, will come back here 1st of november week in preparation of our trip. however, we just recently heard the news about the embassy, not accepting any bank statement / certificate outside the philippines. Unfortunately, her bank account here in the philippines was not active for the last 8 months, and was able to activate her account just this month. Can you give us some tips? we appreciate you reply soon.
Thank you!
Hi Meg,
I haven’t heard of such, but to be sure, I suggest you email the embassy directly at ph04@mofa.go.kr
They do respond 🙂 I’ve emailed them a few times.
Cheers, Gie
Hello thanks for all the infos! I just want to ask, i have my BDO gold credit card, i dont have work too and no business permit, do u think i dont need to submit those requirements? Only my credit card statement account? And photo copy of the card and the actual card only? Thanks sis. I wish i can apply sooner! 😄
They still require you to submit either a Certificate of Employment or Business Permit (for self-employed).. In my case, I submitted my BIR Certificate of Registration.
If you don’t have either, maybe you can submit a cover letter explaining why you don’t have those documents.. All they need to know is that you have a source of income.
You can also email the embassy directly at ph04@mofa.go.kr and ask about your specific situation 🙂
Had you went to Agency to ask help for your Visa?
No, I didn’t. I applied in February 2018 at the embassy in BGC. Walk in applications were still allowed then.
Hi Gie,
What did you put in the employment details section in the form as a self-employed pro? Did you put your full name as the the trade name? How about the position and address? Thanks!
Hi Ken, sorry for the late reply. Hope it was you you PM’d me via my Facebook page asking the same question! 🙂
Anyways, I put in my full name, since that’s what I registered with the BIR. If you have a trade name (registered with the DTI), then you can put that in. Position is owner, and address is my home address, as that’s what’s registered my BIR certificate of Registration
Hi, your blog post is very helpful. Thanks for sharing. Quick question tho, do you have any idea if there’s any instance that a BPI or BDO Gold card holder has been denied for visa? Given that the account is in good standing. Just wondering if that could happen. This is me being an overthinker. I’m actually planning to submit my application anytime soon but I’m afraid to be rejected as I’m already looking forward to spend my birthday in SoKor next year.
Hi Gee! Hey we got the same name, just different spelling 😉
I don’t know anyone who’s been denied that availed of the credit card promo. Good luck and enjoy Korea!
Hi, thank you for the informative post! I would just like to confirm if the bank statement is also no longer needed if you have BDO Gold card? Since I usually always see that it’s the bank certificate that’s not needed. Thanks! 🙂
Hi Bev, sorry for the super duper late reply.
I still submitted my bank statement. But if you don’t want to if it’s not necessary, I think its best to email the Korean embassy.
I have a question? We still can go straight to korean embassy now a days? I was though they change…?
The first time I got my korean visa in January 2018… no agency just me straight to korean embassy. I got the visa without no problem
The second I applied my korean Visa from the agency Sept 2018.. because I heard have to via agency can’t go straight now a days to korean embassy. Still no problem I got second time visa.
I just want to get a clear answer if I can go straight to the korean embassy if I would like to apply my 3rd visa…
If you’re applying from Manila, then you have to apply via an accredited travel agency. If you’re applying from Cebu, you can just walk in.
Hi! I just wanna ask if I can use my bdo gold supplementary card with my boyfriend as the principal card holder? Or should the principal card holder be a family member? TIA
Hi Nicole, I don’t really know about supplementary cards. Best to ask BDO about it. Before today, I thought you can only have family members as supplementary.
Do you already have an existing BDO supplementary credit card with your boyfriend as the primary cardholder??
If yes, then you can both apply together for the South Korean visa.
Hi. I don’t have an eligible credit card for multiple entry. But I’m planning to apply for a single entry visa soon and I have credit cards from BDO and Metrobank (these are not Gold / Platinum Cards though), do you think it would help if I include the statement of account of these cards to get higher chances of being approved? Appreciate your helpful post.
Hi Donna, you can try. But when I applied, the document checkers took out all the unnecessary docs which I included in my application, before handing me back my docs and giving me a priority number for the Window (where you will submit the docs)
Hello Gie… I would like to know if ever I submit my requirements to Korean Embassy, do I need to leave my passport there? When will they return it? After how many days? Thank you for your reply in advance.
Hi Tina, yes you need to leave your passport there. Processing time depends on which embassy (in Manila or Cebu?) you apply. Also, when I applied for mine back in February 2018, they still accept walk in applications at the Embassy in Manila. But now, all applications in Manila must be through a travel agency. It’s best to ask the travel agency for the processing times.
Hi mam! what is the credit
limit required for BDO card holder? since i do have have my bdo gold and applied for multiple they still not giving me a multiple visa.. what supposed to be the reason?
Even with a valid credit card, it’s still up to the discretion of the Korean Embassy to give me multiple entry or not.
Perhaps it’s your first international travel and you don’t have other stamps or visas in your passport?
Hi i just applied for bdo gold visa with credit limit of 50,400 yesterday, i haven’t got my credit card thought coz im waiting for the process. What do you mean they did not grant you a multiple entry? But did they still approve you for single entry. I was confuse coz they said in their promo that they will grant multiple for bdo gold visa holder
Hi i just applied for bdo gold visa with credit limit of 50,400 yesterday, i haven’t got my credit card thought coz im waiting for the process. What do you mean they did not grant you a multiple entry? But did they still approve you for single entry. I was confuse coz they said in their promo that they will grant multiple for bdo gold visa holder…
It’s not a guarantee po that you’ll get the visa. It’s still up to the Embassy whether to give you a visa or not.
I recommend having some international travel first before applying for South Korea multiple entry visa.
hi po! ask lang po. last July 2018 po nakakuha ako ng 3 year Multiple Entry Korean Visa. dahil sa BDO Gold Credit Card.
ang tanong ko lang po kung hindi ko po ba siya magagamit within 1 year mavo-void po kaya siya? ang balak ko po kasing travel to Korea ay sa October-November 2019 pa po eh.
meron din po kasing nakapagsabi sa akin na sa ibang bansa po yata like US pag within a year hindi nagamit ung Visa nae-expired daw po.
salamat po! 🙂
Hi Fevie, you can use the visa anytime within the validity period.
As for the US visa, it’s just a myth 😉
I also have a US visa, and I still haven’t used it. But it’s recommended to use the multiple entry visa at least once during its validity period, otherwise you’ll have a hard time getting another visa from them again.
HELLO GIE, can i submit my business Clearance(barangay permit) if ever? Meron po akong sari sari store. And i have bdo gold cc po . Thank you miss gie.
Hi Ms. Anna, just Submit what you can po 🙂
Usually, wala na income income docs / proof of income source pag via credit card promo.
Hello. I’m a Supplementary of my mom’s bdo platinum credit card and im planning to use it on my visa application. My problem is, I’m still a college student and I’m the only one in the family who’s applying for tourist visa. Although, I think I have enough standing for the bank accounts for ‘show money’ Am I eligible po kaya for ME?? I have complete requirements needed for ME. Though, I have my parent’s ITR naman just to be ready. Thanks in advance!
Hi Iya, I think it’s best to contact BDO about this. As far as I know, only BPI credit cards allows applications from supplementary cardholders. BDO doesn’t.
But perhaps that changed, I’m not sure.
Or you can email the Korean Embassy about your specific circumstances to be sure.. email them at philippines@mofa.go.kr
Hi! Do they have a certain requirement for the card like it has to be a year since the card was active to be able to usa the promo? Will be using a month old card. Thanks!
Hi Pam, even a newly issued card is okay, as long as it’s one of the eligible credit cards.
Hi!
Thanks for the very useful post!
I would like to ask your travelling profile, have you been to many countries before your SK trip?
Reason for asking is because my sister got her BDO gold credit card (also a secured cc), she’s employed but salary is Php20k/month (She’s worrying that this may be too low) though she’s almost 2 years already in the company and she has only gone to HongKong for the last 5 years.
Hope you could share tips. Thank you!
Hi Aia, sorry for the late reply. Haven’t updated the blog recently!
I’ve traveled extensively before applying. Been to the UK (student visa), Japan and a few visa-free Southeast Asian countries.
But I don’t think it matters, as long as you’ve traveled internationally before.
Hi! As a self-employed pro (meaning no DTI, mayor’s permit), what did you put under the employment section of the South Korea visa form? (trade name, address, position)
We’re actually the same, Ken. I don’t have DTI, Mayor’s permit, etc.. when I registered with the BIR back in 2015, I could register without all those things coz I’m a self employed professional. They did require me to pay PTR at the City Hall, though.
That said, trade name is my name, address is home address, position is owner. It’s important that everything there reflects your BIR registration.
Hi! Just a question, for BDO Gold or BPI Gold Credit Card holders, one of the requirements is the physical card should be presented. How can we do that if we can only apply thru an accredited agency? Thank you in advance.
Hi Joseph,
Only a photocopy will be submitted to the agency. I applied directly at the Embassy and they didn’t ask me to present the actual credit card, just the photocopy.
Hi. We were approved multiple entry visa last year. However, we were not able to visit korea last year. Is the visa still valid? Do we need to visit korea every year for 5 years since we were given 5 years validity? Thank you
Hi Stacy, you don’t have to. Just make sure to use it at least once before it expires. Otherwise, you’ll have a hard time getting another visa.
how about 3 times travelled here in korea,invited by the church, can i apply multiple visa? what is the requirements,.
Hi Grace, did you mean to say you’ve already travelled to South Korea 3 times already??
Then it should be easier for you to apply for multiple entry.. Please see the Korean Embassy website for the requirements.
Take note, the requirements for all multiple entry visas are nearly the same. The only difference with the credit card promo is you don’t have to submit income documents (like ITR and bank certificate)
Hi, how about if a korean invited me.? What is the possibility of getting visa, and do I need invitation
Hi Mark, are you availing of the credit card promo? Is it your first time applying for a South Korean visa?
If availing if the credit card promo, then you won’t need an invitation. But if not, I recommend you get an invitation letter to increase your chances of getting your visa application approved. Good luck! 🙂
Hi,
I would like to know if you just got your card recently and you only have 1 month credit card statement, does it still apply or is it still qualified? Thank you.
As long as you get your statement, that’s fine. It doesn’t matter whether its new or not.
Hi! My first application was approved and this is my second time applying for korean visa, how long will be the process if considered i have an OECD visa (korean visa) is it 3days or 5days?
Hi Jenjen, it’s 3 days. The 5 days is for “first time travellers” to Korea, and those who haven’t traveled to any other OECD countries
Hi! I just wanted to ask if there’s a high chance to get a multiple entry visa. I’m a gov’t employee but I don’t have a gold credit card from bdo/bpi yet. I am planning to apply for a credit card in bdo to avail their promo. If i can get a qualified credit card and used it once, can I use it for my visa application even if still issued recently? Thanks in advance.
Hi Rose,
Yes, it doesn’t matter if your credit card is new. As long as you get your first statement.
Gie
Hi we are planning to apply as a family group ( me, my husband & 3 children ages 23,21,18. )
1) me – i have my shengen visa , japan visa
2) husband & 3 children – has japan visa
3) husband- bdo platinuim card holder
My question are
1) my husband being a bdo credit card holder are we included for the promo of no more requirements needed since we are applying for a family group
2) since i have my shengen & japan visa is it possible or easier for us to apply for korean visa chances are for us to be able to get a multiple visa the whole family
3) one of my children applied for a Australian visa but was not able to make it denied. Would that effect our application for getting a korean visa
Thanks a lot
Hi Pie,
1. I’m not sure about this, better ask BDO. But usually pag family, the parents will be the one sponsoring the kids, unless they’re old enough to earn money. Are any of your kids already working?
2. If you have Schengen and Japan visa (used po), then you won’t be considered “first time travellers” na.. I’m not sure about multiple entry visa for the rest of the family, but for sure si Husband nyo po eligible sya for the multiple entry.
3. I don’t think they have access to that info.
Best to talk to BDO nalang po. Go to the branch or send them an email.
You can also email the Korean Embassy where you’re planning to apply (Cebu or Manila). They’re the one who can help you since your case is specific.
Hope that helps!
-Gie
Hi maam gie
Bago po aku mmag apply ng first visa ko po sa korea binasa ko po tlga yung shinare nyo at sobrang nakatulong po nakakuha po ako ng single entry. May tatanong lang po ako sana regarding sa pag aaply ulit ng visa im planning to apply for multiple entry ask ko lang po ilang months bago po bago mag apply like pwede po ba weeks or 1 month lang kararating from korea then apply po agad pwede po ba yun and second question po once palang po ako nkag travel sa korea just for 2 weeks then nakapag travel n po na rin po ako sa japan for 6 days and meron po akong japan multiple visa ngayon malaki po ba yung chance na ma approve ang aaply ko pong korean multiple visa po maam. Salamat po inadvance
God bless po maam gie.
Hi RC!
That’s good news 🙂
Wala naman po limit, as long as you can provide financial docs to prove that you’re financially capable, it’s okay.
I think meron sa website ng Korean Embassy kung ano yung steps / docs kelangan if you want to get a multiple entry visa for Korea. Ako kc, ginamit ko yung credit card promo nila. Wala ako idea eh kung pano mag apply ng multiple entry visa. Best to email the Korean Embassy for updated info. Mabilis kc mag change yung rules nila
thank you for the helpful post po ♥
just want to ask/ confirm lng din po few things
kung mag-aaply for multiple entry visa with eligible credit card, directly na po ba sa embassy or through agency pa din po? since need din po kc ung actual card
kung halimbawa po na magrant ng multiple entry visa, peru nagexpire na ung passport, marrenew pa din po ba ung visa sa panibagung passport?
thank you po
Photocopy lang po. No need na actual credit card. Make sure to block out the CVV at the back in your photocopy.
I applied directly to the embassy before, back in Feb. 2018, and they didn’t even ask for my credit card (though I brought it with me)
Good day! Pwede nyo po ba ishare ung date of application ng visa and ung travel date na dineclare nyo po sa visa form? Thanks in advance. 🙂
[…] example, my friend Gie, got a 5-year multiple entry Korea visa on her first application because of her BPI Gold card and perhaps, her travel history as well. She applied last […]
Hi Gie,
I have to share my experience about applying Korea Visa in Cebu Embassy.
I stopped working in corporate last Jan.2018. Since, I am one of the BDO Platinum Holders, Nag apply ako but it was my 2nd time to apply for Korean Visa dahil nag travel na ako last 2017 and I used my BDO Gold pa that time. Then, it was Sept.2018 to decide that i should apply again Tourist Visa for Korean. Yet, yung source of income ko is only Sari Sari Store and nakaname pa ng aunty ko ung family business namin. What I did, I made cover letter to explain about my income and why should I visit sa SK. Then, I didnt submit COE. Only, passport, application form, Cert of my SOA since I received it via email and nag request ako from bdo friend to make Cert of my Credit card and yung photocopy ng Card ko. By the way, no COE submitted and my cover letter was not notarized.
5 days after, they gave 3 years multiple entry.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Peter!
Yes, they’re very lax if you have travel history already 🙂
Gie
Hi,
I’m a supplementary card holder of BPI Gold Mastercard (my mom is the primary), but I’m just a student and will be traveling alone. Do I still need to present their bank certificates and ITR? Also, do you think there would be a problem in granting the visa? Thanks! 😁
Hi Maiah, I really don’t know. It’s best to email the embassy of South Korea about your specific situation. There are many things to consider in your case. Are you still a minor? If you’re going to South Korea with your Mom, then there’s no problem.
Hi po tanong ko lang po kung ok lang po ba iyon na yung narelease na Multiple entry C39 Korean tourist Visa ay yung sa may Given Name portion –> iyong Given or First Name ko lang talaga nkasulat as per visa?
Hindi po nakasulat yung Middle Name kpo?
Ewan kpo ngwoworry lng po ako.
Makakaapekto po ba iyon? Or ok lng po
Kasi binigay nmn ntin passport sa knila at makikita nmn po nila pero sa issued Visa only Last Name and Given Name.
Looking forward to hear from you po.
Salamat po.
Hi Miss Gie! Your post po is very helpful. 🙂 Anyways, I have a concern na I can’t talk to anyone about kasi I don’t know whom to raise my concern. 🙁 Baka you can help me po. I applied for a secured credit card recently (August 16) since I was accepted and invited for a cultural immersion on October in SK. BPI said it may take a month to process din yung card (but I think it may take more than a month). The problem is, I was asked to submit my visa to the organization on September 30. If things will go accordingly, the card will be in my hands sometime ng September 16 onwards. Another is that, required din pala yung SOA. Kaso siyempre I’ll not be able to secure one until the following billing statement which may be sometime October. (Please correct me if I’m wrong). I’m panicking now kasi I might not be able to secure a visa, and I already paid a lot for that program. 🙁 I can still ask for a refund from them naman kaso sayang kasi yung opportunity to travel with the purpose of learning (I’ll have the opportunity to visit any of the SKY universities). 🙁
The moment they said sa BPI na I have to wait for a month was unexpected. It was my fault for not knowing na credit card applications may take this long. T_T Everything about cards (debit or credit) is new to me. I’m still unemployed as of the moment. I opted for the secured credit card para wala ng ITR, bank certificates, and 3 months SOA. I recently graduated in January 2019, passed the board exams in March 2019 but wasn’t granted a license until I turned 21 (August 9). Mistake ko lang din na sana I opted for other jobs or volunteer programs pampalipas lang ng oras while I still can’t practice my profession. This is my somewhat gap year and I also have plans of continuing my education (either master’s or proceed to medical school) kaya there’s no reason for me to overstay in SK din. I read that mas maganda din daw kasi kapag ’employed’ ka when traveling to their country kasi di nila iisipin na pwede ka mag-overstay and look for a job there.
I traveled to SK before as a minor, cultural immersion din, kaso that was 6 years ago already. Not from a well off family din naman kaya I can no longer have my show money kasi I opted for the card already. 🙁 I checked my BPI account online a week ago siguro and it reflects my savings + my money deposited for the secured credit card. Now, savings nalang nagpapakita (parang nag-reflect na ata yung ‘secured’ money for the card. Any ideas what to do?
Hi Lei, so sorry for the delayed response! I took time off from the blog as I was focused on my online business.
Credit card applications do take some time, depending on the bank.
Yes, it’s much better to apply for visa when you’re employed or have a source of income that you can prove. Hopefully you were able to sort it out!
Gie
Hi! I have been in Korea for a couple of years as a student then continued for another couple of years as an intern, I was not able to change my visa on time so I had to leave and wait for months, in order to continue my visa changing process. I just came back from Korea last month. I am trying to get a tourist visa, but they said they are not able to grant me a tourist visa and in order for me to get that visa, I have to have a min stay of 6 months here in Philippines
Hi Ciara, your case is unique since you’ve been to South Korea already. I think they’re just making sure you aren’t going there to work and using a tourist visa to apply for work is frowned upon. I know it sucks but it’s their country, their rules, I’m afraid.
Hi Gie,
Is the privilege extended to the family like husband and children?
Hi Yvonne, it depends. Are your husband and kids your supplementary cardholders?
Hi po. I’ll be travelling to Korea this January and I plan on using my BPI credit card. Supplementary po ako ng Mom ko but she is not travelling with me. I’m also a student. My problem is kakabayad lang po ng tuition ko last month and baka magreflect na siya sa next SOA. And medyo malaki rin po yung nacharge, baka po di mabayaran agad. Kaya po nagcocontemplate ako if I’ll avail the promo or not. What do you think should I do? Thank you!
Hi M,
I don’t think it matters if you have unpaid balance on your credit card statement. As long as it’s still active, that’s what matters.
Automatic po ba na 3yrs multiple visa ang binibigay sa mga bdo gold card holder? Nabanggit po kasi sakin ng agent na kausap ko. Kaya we dont need ng RT ticket since we have 3yrs if ever ma approve. Nag request palang ako sa bdo ng mga requirements for SoKor visa. Thank you sa blog mo sobrang helpful.
Hi Camill, thanks! Yes, automatic 3 years pag Gold, 5 years pag Elite cards. When applying for South Korea visa, they don’t ask for confirmed flight tickets, even for single entry visas so no need to book your return flights if you still haven’t done so.
Gie
Hi how much did you pay for your Korean Multiple entry Visa? For BDO credit card holders is the visa fee, free for multiple entry?? Thanks
It’s free.
But if you go through a visa processing agency, the pay will depend on which agency. But the visa itself is free.
Hi Gie, I would like to ask.. I was planning to use my BDO gold credit card for this visa application. I read that it may grant a multiple-entry visa. But in your visa application form, did you check for single entry or multiple entry? and also, I receive my SOA through email and I no longer receive it through hard copies. Can I just have the soft copy printed and certified by BDO?
Hi Cha,
Yes, I did check multiple entry. As for the SOA, you need to request a statement from the bank. You may have to pay for it (same thing when you pay when you request for a bank statement). You can’t just print and have it certified by the bank; it has to be from the bank. The embassy has a guideline na, for those receiving their statements online, they have to request for a paper copy.
Gie
Thank you, this is very informative…
Gusto ko po sana mag-apply ng Korean Visa this week, for a possible travel on January 23,2019.May BDO GOLD CREDIT CARD po ako. Ang problem ko po is wala ako masubmit na proof of income ko, Dati po akong may business since 2008 until Dec 2016.Nagdecide po ako na mag stop muna sa business para magconcentrate mag-alaga sa 5 year old kid ko.(Im a single parent). May chance pa kaya na makakuha ako ng visa kahit wala ako masubmit na business permit? (May DTI cert po ako na valid until 2022) Ano kaya puwed ko masubmit in place of business permit? Nakapagtravel na rin ako to other countries but no OECD countries.
Thanks po sa pagbasa sa napakahaba kong litanya..he he…
Hi Jet, as per BDO and Korean Embassy, you still need to provide employment certificate or business permit. In your case, if you can provide proof of where you get your income, then I think they will consider it. May ibang business po ba kayo? Na hindi registered with BIR? Perhaps on online business? You can try applying using your DTI Certificate, baka makalusot po kayo, but walang guarantee po.
Thanks po for the reply, I have just submitted my papers to the agency..I’ll update you soon kung ano result…Hoping for a positive result here.