A pre-submit checklist so you never pay the fee twice
Quick answer
The mistakes that most often force a refile are: a name spelled differently from the passport, a wrong passport number, a filtered or cluttered photo, a mistyped email so the result never arrives, a vague Korean address, a passport close to expiry, and filing through an expensive agent site. Checking these seven before submitting removes almost all repeat-fee risk.
One to three concern identity: spelling the name as on the national ID rather than the passport, putting a middle name in the wrong field, and swapping letters and digits in the passport number. Proof-read character by character against the passport page.
Four to six concern the photo: using a filtered image, cropping yourself out of a group shot, and backlighting that darkens the face. Retake it against a light wall in daylight.
Seven to nine concern contact and accommodation: a mistyped email, a disconnected phone number, and entering only a district name instead of an address. Copy the address from the booking confirmation.
Ten to twelve concern timing and channel: a passport with little validity left, filing under three days before the flight, and using an agent charging several times the real fee. Planning ahead and going straight to the official site prevents all three.
Before submitting, read the summary page slowly with the passport and the booking email open beside it. This simple habit saves more fees than anything else.
Exactly as printed in the passport; leave it blank if there is none.
Check the status on the official site with your application number and passport details.
At least six months from the travel date is the safe standard.
If the booking changes, give the correct details at the border with the new confirmation.
If a genuine approval was issued it remains valid; next time file yourself on the official site and save the difference.
3 points • reviewed 2026-09-15
Reviewed and last updated: 2026-09-15
2 sources • every claim is traceable
https://www.mfds.go.kr/eng/index.do
https://www.mohw.go.kr/eng/
Last updated: 2026-09-15 · This content is for information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before making treatment decisions.
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