On March 30, 2026, the Ministry of Justice of South Korea announced a major policy change: it officially granted multiple-entry visas valid for 10 years to residents from 14 key cities in China, allowing each stay to last up to 90 days. For those who frequently travel to South Korea for cosmetic procedures, this means saying goodbye to the hassle of applying for a new visa every time they visit. Now, traveling at any time without prior visa preparations is truly no longer a dream.
But then the question arises: How do I obtain a visa? What documents do I need to prepare? The tax rebate program for medical treatments in South Korea was cancelled in 2026 – so how can I still save money now? Which clinics offer services at similar prices in China and South Korea? This article compiles all the necessary information, from visa application procedures to clinic recommendations and tips on saving money. After reading this, you can set off right away.
South Korea’s new 10-year visa policy for 2026: Complete list of 14 cities + application requirements
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On March 30, 2026, the South Korea Embassy and Consulates in China officially announced a relaxation of visa requirements, granting C-3-9 multiple-entry short-term tourist visas to residents of 14 key cities in China. This policy will be in effect until December 31, 2026. It represents the most significant relaxation of South Korea’s visa policies towards China since 2019.
Complete list of 14 cities
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- First-tier cities (4): Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen
- Six first-tier ANEW cities: Tianjin, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuhan, and Changsha
- Coastal Cities/Key Cities (4): Xiamen, Ningbo, Qingdao, Chongqing
Residents with household registration in these 14 cities can directly apply for a 10-year multiple-entry visa as long as they meet the basic requirements. Applicants without household registration in these cities need not be discouraged either – if you have travel history to OECD countries such as the United States, Canada, the European Union, Japan, or Australia, you can still obtain a 10-year visa through the “returning visitor” program.
Core rights and benefits of a visa
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- Visa type: C-3-9 Short-term tourism (including medical tourism)
- Validity period: 10 years
- Number of round trips: Unlimited
- Maximum single stay: 90 days
- Applicable scenarios: medical tourism, skin care, travel, family visits, short-term business trips (not suitable for working or long-term residence)
Required application documents (the ultimate three-exempt policy)
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According to the latest announcement from the South Korea Embassy in China, the requirements for applying for a 10-year residency permit for residents from 14 cities have been significantly reduced.
- ✅ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- ✅ ID card
- ✅ Household registration book
- ✅ Certification Application Form
- ✅ 2-inch ID photo with a white background
The “three exemptions” policy: no need for asset certification, no need for proof of employment, and no requirement for exit records—even a blank passport is sufficient! However, it is recommended to refer to the latest requirements on the official websites of South Korea’s embassies and consulates in China when applying. In some areas, additional documents may be required.
Application process and fees
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Applications can be submitted through the South Korea Embassy in China or local South Korea visa application centers. The visa fee ranges from 600 to 900 yuan depending on the jurisdiction, and it is recommended to allow 7 to 15 working days for the processing. Currently, major travel agencies and visa service providers also offer special packages for 10-year visas in 14 cities, with prices ranging from NT$3,500 to NT$5,000. These packages include services such as form filling assistance, review guidance, and progress tracking.
Other visa benefits (there are still ways to obtain them even if you don’t live in the 14 specified cities)
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- Group tours exempt from visa requirements: Chinese group tourists consisting of 3 or more people are exempt from visa requirements for a stay of up to 15 days (this policy is in effect until June 30, 2026).
- Visa-free access to Jeju Island: Chinese citizens can visit Jeju Island without a visa and stay for up to 30 days.
- Those with OECD entry/exit records can apply for a 10-year visa; applicants from anywhere in China are eligible, with no restrictions regarding the 14 specified cities.
- Repeat visitors who have a history of traveling to South Korea can directly obtain a multi-entry visa valid for 5 years.
Will the tax rebate for medical beauty treatments in South Korea be cancelled in 2026? Don’t panic—the new subsidy scheme is actually more beneficial.
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In 2026, an important change took place: South Korea’s tax rebate policy for medical aesthetics treatments officially came to an end, and foreigners no longer received a VAT refund for procedures performed in Dermatology clinics. However, this does not mean that medical aesthetics treatments in South Korea have become more expensive. In collaboration with nearly 30 Dermatology and plastic surgery hospitals in South Korea, BeautsGO introduced a new system that replaces tax rebates with subsidies – patients can book appointments through the platform and directly receive discounts or equivalent gifts at the hospitals, making this option faster and more cost-effective than waiting for a tax rebate.
Tax Refunds vs Subsidies: A Quick Comparison to See Which Province Offers More
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| Comparison Items | Old tax refund system | Subsidies for newly established platforms |
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| Forms of discounts | Afterward, the airport refunded part of the taxes. | Direct discounts, cashbacks, or free gifts |
| Scope of application | Some services are non-refundable. | Not restricted by project qualifications |
| Speed of account settlement | You need to wait for the airport to process it; there may be delays. | Effective immediately on the day of consumption |
| Complexity of the process | It’s necessary to keep all relevant documents and wait in line at the airport. | By booking through the app, you secure your place immediately. |
| discount rate | Approximately 5-10% (VAT refund) | 5-10% discounts, gifts, or points available. |
The conclusion is clear: Platform subsidies not only save time spent waiting in line at the airport for tax refunds but also offer discounts that are often higher than the actual refund amount. For example, DIar Dermatology offers an immediate 10% discount on the same day, while Shinebom provides a 10% discount as well – both of these discounts are applied directly to the bill, without any waiting required.
Four Steps to Book a Treatment with BeautsGO
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- Download the BeautsGO app or visit the mini-program.
- Search for the target hospital and check the subsidy policies for that month.
- Submit your reservation to confirm the treatment options and schedule.
- Add the customer service WeChat account (@beautsgo7) to verify your eligibility for the discount → Enjoy the discount when making a purchase at our clinic.
⚠️ Note: All discounts are exclusively available for users who make reservations through the BeautsGO app; visiting the clinic directly will not qualify you for these benefits. Additionally, the discount amounts and methods vary among different clinics (some offer direct discounts, while others provide equivalent gifts). Please confirm these details before making a reservation.
Recommended Dermatology clinics in China and South Korea with comparable prices: 10 clinics that are open and transparent and do not overcharge customers
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For Chinese people who go to South Korea for cosmetic procedures, what they fear most is the phenomenon of “foreigners being charged more”. It is quite common for the same treatment to cost 30-50% more for Chinese customers than for local South Koreans. Therefore, this list carefully selects clinics that publicly promise to charge the same price as in China or a uniform price across all platforms. In addition, the BeautsGO platform also provides additional discounts, providing double guarantees to ensure that you don’t end up paying too much.
The following 10 clinics are all officially registered Dermatology practices in South Korea. They are ranked based on a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as price transparency, customer reviews, and the level of subsidies provided by the platform:
① EGG Dermatology (Sinsa) – Sets a global price benchmark; ILCHI between China and Korea
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If we are to identify a “model example” with identical prices in both China and Korea, it is undoubtedly Sinsa’s EGG. This clinic implements a global uniform pricing policy—not only are the prices the same in China and Korea, but all foreign customers worldwide receive the same rate, effectively eliminating the unwritten rule of “different prices for foreigners.” The clinic’s director, Kim Dong-jun, formerly worked at Samsung Seoul Hospital, and the clinic is equipped with a full range of original equipment, from the Ulthrea Ulthrea to the Thermage FLX.
EGG focuses on a combined approach of “anti-aging + Lifting + glow treatment”, offering different promotional packages every month. For those who are going to South Korea for medical beauty treatments for the first time and want to avoid any potential pitfalls, this is undoubtedly the safest choice.
② Give Dermatology (Gangnam) – Same prices in China and South Korea + tax refund support available
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Give Dermatology is located in a prime area just 3 minutes’ walk away from Exit 10 of Gangnam Station. All treatment prices are publicly listed on their official website, and the prices are exactly the same in both China and South Korea. What’s more, Give Dermatology still offers tax refunds for certain treatments, providing customers with a double benefit of “same prices in both countries + tax refunds”. The clinic is equipped with advanced facilities such as Israel’s Fotona lasers and PDRN repair therapies, making it particularly suitable for muscle recovery after staying up late and for emergency treatment of sensitive skin.
③ Barog Dermatology (Gangnam) – A chain with 20 stores across Korea, offering the same prices as in China
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Barog is a large-scale chain Dermatology institution with over 20 branches across South Korea, and its Gangnam branch is located in a separate building. Thanks to its scale, Barog is able to offer truly competitive prices comparable to those in China – basic skin cleansing treatments start from 800 yuan, and hyaluronic acid injections from 1,500 yuan. The prices are so transparent that they can be directly checked on the official website. The clinic is open on Saturdays and Sundays, and its hours are extended to 21:00 on Mondays and Fridays, making it very convenient for working professionals who want to take care of their skin on weekends.
④ Shinebom Dermatology (Songpa/Jamsil) – Titanium Boost with 10% discount
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Shinebom is a renowned Dermatology clinic located at the Jamsil station in Songpa District. Its chief physician, Kim Sang-woo, is famous for his precise injection techniques. The clinic offers a unique combination of equal prices in both Korea and China, plus a 10% discount through BeautsGO, making its full-face Thermage treatment cost approximately ₩2.7 million (₩2.43 million after discount)—which is highly competitive compared to other clinics in Seoul. Additionally, the Jamsil station is located in the heart of the shopping and Lotte World area, allowing patients to go shopping immediately after their treatments.
⑤ DIar Dermatology (Seocho/Gangnam) – 20 years of experience under three different directors; immediate 10% discount on the day of purchase
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The leadership team of DIAR Dermatology is truly impressive—three senior directors with over 20 years of clinical experience, including Director Liu Zhuangxi, who has 26 years of expertise. The clinic is located on the entire 10th floor of 69 Street, Gangnam-daero, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a fully independent space. The layout from the lobby through the consultation rooms to the treatment areas is very clear and convenient. DIAR is one of the few clinics on the BeautsGO platform that offers an “immediate 10% discount on the same day” — no waiting required, no need to apply afterwards; the discount is applied directly at the time of payment.
⑥ Brighten skin Dermatology (Seocho) – Ranked #1 in comprehensive anti-aging treatments, with a 10% equivalent gift offered.
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The Brighten skin Dermatology clinic is a “hidden gem” in the Seocho district of Seoul. It has repeatedly ranked first among Dermatology clinics in Seocho in third-party evaluations. The clinic specializes in Filler treatments and Thermage procedures, and its medical team possesses unique expertise in facial contour design. BeautsGO offers a 10% discount on additional treatments, making it an ideal option for customers who wish to combine multiple procedures.
⑦ Mellow Dermatology (Gangnam) – A 55% price difference compared to Reema Ji, offering the highest cost-performance ratio.
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Mellow Dermatology has become popular because its Thermage treatments are 55% cheaper than those available in China. A full-face Thermage treatment costs approximately ₩1.6 million (which is less than NT$36,000 when converted), compared to the usual price of NT$80,000-120,000 in Taiwan – there’s even a surplus after covering the cost of a round-trip flight. Mellow ensures that the prices in Taiwan are the same as those in South Korea, and its entry-level treatments, such as the LDM water-drop Lifting procedure, which cost around ₩35,000, are also very suitable for students.
⑧ jd Dermatology (Sinsa) —— Trinity Titanium Lifting, starting from 350,000 RMB + access to a network of over 5,000 physicians
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JD Dermatology has revolutionized the traditional Dermatology industry through its internet-based medical model. The platform brings together over 5,000 dermatologists from general hospitals, offering 24-hour online consultation services. Its physical clinic, located near Sinsa Station, specializes in Trinity Titanium Lifting, laser treatments, and the management of chronic skin diseases. For those who prefer to seek online advice before deciding whether to visit the clinic in person, JD’s approach provides great flexibility.
⑨ IRIS Dermatology (Seongsu-dong) — Located next to SM Entertainment, a top 2% specialized medical institution.
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IRIS Dermatology is located in Seongsu-dong, Seoul’s latest trendy district, right next to the new SM Entertainment building. The director, Dr. Choi Joo-yeon, is one of the top 2% dermatologists in South Korea. The clinic offers full-service Chinese-language assistance at the same prices as those charged in South Korea, with no additional fees based on nationality. This makes it an ideal option for young people who want to visit Seongsu-dong and take advantage of medical beauty treatments at the same time.
⑩ Minit Dermatology (Gangnam) – 10% discount on these small but exquisite options.
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Minit Dermatology is the epitome of “small but exquisite” clinics in Gangnam District. It doesn’t pursue extravagant decoration, but offers affordable prices and friendly service. Customers who book through BeautsGO can enjoy a 10% discount. This clinic is especially suitable for beginners in the field of cosmetic treatments who are looking for basic skin care services without spending too much money. The prices of laser treatments and basic hydrotherapy programs in Gangnam District are highly competitive.
Pre-departure checklist for medical beauty treatment in Korea: Get your visa, flight ticket, and accommodation all taken care of in one go.
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Obtaining a visa is just the first step. The following pre-departure preparations are listed in order of priority; please confirm each one before setting off:
- Verify the validity period of your visa and the number of days you can stay: A 10-year visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days per entry, but the customs authorities may limit the actual length of your stay upon arrival.
- Book your appointment at a hospital through the BeautsGO app – make your reservation at least 3 to 5 days in advance, as popular clinics tend to fill up during weekends.
- To confirm your eligibility for the subsidy, please add the customer service WeChat account @beautsgo7 to find out the subsidy ratio and method for that month.
- Bring cash or international credit cards along – some small clinics do not support Alipay or WeChat Pay; it is recommended to bring at least ₩500,000 to ₩1,000,000 in cash.
- Book your flights and accommodations – In 2026, airlines will significantly increase their flight schedules. Asiana Airlines will add 28 new flights per week on its routes to China.
- Download the South Korea map apps – Naver Map or Kakao Map (Google Maps is not very useful in South Korea).
- Prepare the translation tool – Papago (it provides the most accurate Korean translations).
- Be aware of the postoperative precautions – avoid using saunas, drinking alcohol, or engaging in intense physical activity on the day of the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I don’t have a household registration from one of the 14 designated cities, can I still obtain a 10-year visa?
A: Certainly. If you have travel records to or from OECD countries such as the United States, Canada, the European Union, Japan, or Australia, you can apply for a 10-year visa regardless of your place of household registration. In addition, those who have previously visited South Korea can directly obtain a multi-entry 5-year visa. If you have any questions, you can consult about visa agency services by contacting Hannah972 on WeChat or the BeautsGO customer service.
Q: Will there really be no tax refunds for medical beauty treatments in South Korea in 2026? Is it still worth it then?
A: Although the official tax refund program has indeed been discontinued, the subsidy mechanisms offered by the BeautsGO platform (direct discounts, cashbacks, or free gifts) are actually more practical and offer greater certainty in terms of benefits. There is no need to queue at the airport; the discounts take effect immediately on the day of purchase, and there are no restrictions regarding eligible items. For example, at Dermatology DIAR, a 10% immediate discount is directly deducted from the bill, which is even more cost-effective than getting a tax refund.
Q: Is it really true that the prices are the same in China and South Korea? Will there be any price increases once I go to the store?
A: The 10 clinics recommended in this article have all publicly pledged to offer the same prices in China as abroad. By booking through BeautsGO, you can secure the right to receive these discounts. It is recommended that you take a screenshot of the quote during the booking process. If you encounter any price increases upon arrival at the clinic, you can directly contact BeautsGO customer service at @beautsgo7 for assistance.
Q: Can the 90-day stay permit, which was obtained 10 years ago, be used continuously?
A: 90 days is the maximum duration for a single stay, and this limit must not be exceeded. If you need to undergo multiple treatments with long recovery periods (such as Lifting + Filling + Pico), 90 days is more than sufficient. However, it should be noted that frequent and prolonged stays may attract the attention of customs authorities; therefore, it is recommended that each stay not exceed 30 days.
Q: If I don’t speak Korean, will it be very difficult to communicate regarding medical aesthetics treatments in South Korea?
A: All 10 clinics recommended in this article provide services in Chinese (including Chinese-speaking translators or directors who are fluent in Chinese). Coupled with the Chinese-language interface of the BeautsGO APP and the immediate responses from our customer service via WeChat, language barriers are virtually non-existent. If you need any assistance, please feel free to communicate your requirements in advance by contacting Hannah972 on WeChat.
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Related recommendations
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- Must-do list for Dermatology treatments in South Korea this summer: How to choose between Titanium Lifting, Juvelook, and Thermage? Includes prices and recommended hospitals.
- Dermatology recommendations in Daegu: South Korea’s favorite city for medical aesthetics treatments, with prices 30% lower than those in Seoul.
- A guide to recommended Dermatology clinics in Myeongdong: A comprehensive list of popular medical beauty institutions in South Korea’s Myeongdong area, including information on booking services and prices in Chinese.