Filipinos planning a trip to South Korea have one more reason to start organizing their itineraries. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines has announced that it will extend the simplified visa application process for Filipino travelers until December 31, 2026.
Photo: Freepik
This means eligible applicants can continue enjoying a faster, less document-heavy process for another year.
Under this system, qualified travelers—specifically those holding Gold or Elite credit cards from certain Philippine banks—are not required to submit financial proof documents such as a bank certificate, bank statement, or income tax return (ITR).
The privilege also applies to their immediate family members, including parents, spouses, minor children, and adult kids who are still students.
Photo: Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines Official Website
As of January 1, 2026, the following banks are covered by the simplified application process:
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BDO Unibank
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Bank of the Philippine Islands
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Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC)
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Metrobank
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Philippine National Bank (newly included for 2026)
What applicants still need to submit
Even with fewer financial documents required, applicants must still provide several core requirements:
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Completed visa application form
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Valid passport
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Passport-sized photo
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Certificate of employment (original)
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Photocopy of the front side of the credit card
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Photocopies of the last three months’ credit card billing statements
For family applications, proof of relationship (such as a birth or marriage certificate) must also be included.
South Korea remains a favorite destination for Filipino tourists, whether for its cultural landmarks, cuisine, or pop culture attractions. Continuing the simplified visa process makes planning a visit more convenient, especially for frequent travelers or families preparing for a trip next year.
For complete details and further updates, you can visit the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines’ official website.
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