Manila: The Korean Embassy has announced a significant change in the visa application process for Filipinos, waiving the requirement to submit three months' worth of bank statements. This adjustment is expected to simplify the process and encourage more visits to Korea.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) Philippines detailed the changes, which will be effective starting February 20, 2026. The KVAC stated that for all types of required documents, the submission of three months of bank statements will no longer be necessary. In addition, student applicants are now allowed to submit either an original School Certificate or a copy of their Student ID as part of their application.

The changes also affect employment-related documents. Applicants will not need to submit an explanation letter if the document lacks a landline number or has an electronic signature, provided other contact information, such as an email address or mobile phone number, is included.

Furthermore, common documents like invitation letters, family relationship papers, and company-related documents for multiple applicants can now be submitted in a single copy, attached to the representative applicant's file. This move is expected to streamline the application process.

KVAC, which opened in 2023 to address the growing demand for visas amid increased travel between South Korea and the Philippines, is located at the Brittany Hotel in Taguig City. It handles applications for all visa types and is responsible for releasing visas and passports reviewed by the Korean Embassy in Manila.