South Korea toughens visa restrictions

The toughened restrictions were issued amid the complicated developments of the Covid-19 pandemic. All short-term visas allowing stays of up to 90 days issued to foreign nationals by any South Korean diplomatic offices overseas through April 5 will be temporarily suspended. Foreigners who have already entered the country are permitted to stay until their existing visas expire.

The suspension doesn't extend to long-term employment or investment visas and short-term employment visas for highly skilled technicians. Other exemptions are diplomats and foreign officials, families of South Korean citizens, and travel for humanitarian purposes.

The government said it will also toughen the review process for all new visa applications. Foreigners will be required to submit a health certificate detailing whether the applicant shows any symptoms related to the virus. In case of emergency, Vietnamese citizens can contact the consular protection hotline number displayed on the screen.