›Can German passport holders enter South Korea?
German passport holders do not need a visa to enter South Korea for short stays — which is a significant advantage. You can enter South Korea visa-free, apply for the digital nomad visa from within the country, and avoid the consulate process entirely if the program allows in-country conversion. Always confirm the current maximum stay allowed on entry before booking.
›Requirements for German passport holders
The Digital Nomad Visa assesses all applicants on the same criteria regardless of nationality. German citizens can apply provided they meet the following requirements:
- Income: $66,000/year — proven via 3–6 months bank statements
- Remote work proof: Employment contract, freelance agreements, or client letters confirming you work for non-South Korea entities
- Health insurance: KRW 100 million minimum coverage required
- Clean background: Police clearance from Germany (apostilled if required by South Korea)
- Valid passport: Germany passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Accommodation proof: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or property documents in South Korea
Important: Documents not in South Korea's official language or English must be certified translated. German applicants should confirm apostille requirements for documents issued in Germany.
›How German citizens apply — step by step
- Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid Germany passport (6+ months validity), international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate.
- Authenticate documents. Check whether South Korea requires apostille stamps on Germany-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for any documents not in the local language or English. This step can take 2–6 weeks — start early.
- Check entry requirements. Verify whether German citizens can enter South Korea visa-free or need a short-stay visa before applying for the digital nomad visa. Check the South Korea embassy website for current entry requirements for Germany passport holders.
- Submit your application. Apply through the official South Korea government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
- Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and confirm your health insurance is active from day one. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival in South Korea.
›Tax treatment for German digital nomad visa holders
Tax obligations for German citizens on the Digital Nomad Visa depend on your residency status and duration of stay. Most digital nomad visa holders are not considered tax residents in South Korea if their income originates abroad — but this is not guaranteed.
Extended stays (typically 183+ days in a calendar year) may trigger local tax residency. As a Germany citizen, you must also consider your home country's worldwide income reporting requirements and any bilateral tax treaty between Germany and South Korea.
Always consult a tax professional who understands both Germany and South Korea tax law before committing to an extended stay.
›Common mistakes German applicants make
Weak or inconsistent income documentation
Depositing a lump sum right before applying won't work. South Korea immigration officials want to see consistent income above the threshold over 3–6 months. Sporadic freelance payments or transfers from family members don't qualify. Start maintaining clean financial records as early as possible.
Missing apostille or translation requirements
German applicants often underestimate authentication requirements. Germany-issued documents — including bank letters, employment contracts, and police certificates — may need apostille stamps and certified translations. This process can take weeks. Budget for it early.
Not confirming entry eligibility before booking travel
German passport holders may need a short-stay visa to enter South Korea before their digital nomad visa is approved. Confirm entry requirements with the South Korea embassy before booking any flights. Entry eligibility and DNV eligibility are separate questions.
