Visa & Stay

Korean procedures explained in plain language

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Korean visa types at a glance

Understanding the letter-and-number status codes tells you what you are allowed to do in Korea.

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How to replace a lost Alien Registration Card

If your card is lost, stolen or damaged you must apply for a replacement within the set period. Delay can mean a fine.

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The F-3 dependent visa

For the spouse and minor children of someone holding certain statuses.

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What is the F-6 marriage migrant visa

The status for spouses of Korean nationals. Almost no employment restrictions, and it leads to permanent residence or naturalisation.

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Registering an international marriage

You must register in both countries. Registering in only one causes problems later.

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Permanent residents' obligations

Permanent residence still involves card renewal and reporting duties.

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Divorce: an overview

There is divorce by agreement and by court judgment. Address the residence status question alongside.

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Using the 1345 Immigration Contact Centre

Free advice on residence and visas in 20 languages. The first number to save.

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Leaving Korea for a long period

If you plan to return, check before you go.

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Child custody

Custody, parental rights and child support are separate. Write all three into the agreement.

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Fines for late reporting

Late reports of a change of address or workplace bring administrative fines.

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Preparing for the marriage visa interview

They check whether you genuinely know each other. Answer honestly.

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Is dual nationality allowed?

The principle is single nationality, with exceptions. Always check your own case.

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Tuberculosis screening requirements

Nationals of high-TB-burden countries may be required to screen for residence procedures.

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The EPS-TOPIK test

The Korean language test you must pass to come under the Employment Permit System.

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Returning your residence card on departure

When leaving for good, you hand the card in at departure control.

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Beware study and visa broker scams

"Pay me and the visa comes" is a scam. Verify free of charge with 1345.

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Criminal record certificates

Korean records come from a police station; home-country records from your own authorities.

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Health checks for visa purposes

Some statuses require a health certificate from a designated hospital.

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Alien registration for minor children

A child who holds a residence status must also complete alien registration.

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Applying for refugee status

Apply at an immigration office or airport. Always get help from a support organisation.

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Loss and renunciation of nationality

Acquiring a foreign nationality, or failing to choose in time, can cost you Korean nationality.

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Using an International Driving Permit

It is valid only for a set period from your date of entry.

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Settling tax and insurance before departure

What you don't settle before leaving becomes very hard to handle later.

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Humanitarian stay permits

Where return would be dangerous, a stay may be permitted even without refugee recognition.

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The duty to report a change of residence

When you move, you must report the new address within the deadline.

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KIIP levels and completion

The placement test assigns your level, and you must pass each level to move up.

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Finding your embassy in Korea

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website lists all missions in Korea with contact details.

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Exchanging a foreign licence for a Korean one

Depending on your country, you may convert without taking the test.

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What the KIIP programme is

A near-free Korean language and society course run by the Ministry of Justice.

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Registering a child's birth (foreign parents)

If both parents are foreign, register at your embassy; if one is Korean, at the community centre.

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Naturalisation: an overview

There are general, simplified and special routes, each with different requirements.

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A child's acquisition of nationality

If one parent is a Korean national, the child acquires nationality at birth as a rule.

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General naturalisation requirements

For foreigners who have lived here lawfully for a long period and meet the livelihood and knowledge requirements.

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Finding your immigration office

Go to the office for your registered address, and book a visit first.

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Fingerprint and facial data registration

Fingerprints and facial data are registered at alien registration or immigration inspection.

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Getting help from agents and lawyers

Check they are qualified, and set the fee and scope in writing.

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Voluntary departure

Someone who has overstayed and reports themselves before leaving may face lighter re-entry restrictions.

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Certificate of entry and exit records

It shows when you entered and left. Often needed for permanent residence and naturalisation.

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Renewing your passport (embassy)

Passports are renewed at your own country's embassy or consulate. Start well before expiry.

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Local foreign resident support centres

Knowing your area's centre makes almost everything easier.

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What the Employment Permit System (EPS) is

The official government-run scheme for bringing in foreign workers. No broker needed.

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Support for asylum seekers

Living, housing and medical support schemes exist. Connect through support organisations.

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Document translation and notarisation

First find out which form the receiving body requires.

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Support for marriage migrants

Family centres are the hub, connecting Korean classes, interpretation, counselling and employment.

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EPS return support

Settle severance, insurance and pension before departure. Miss them and you lose them.

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E-government services for foreign residents

HiKorea and Gov24 let you handle a surprising amount from home.

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Understanding the EPS standard contract

The standard employment contract uses a set form. Always confirm it through an interpreter before signing.

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Simplified naturalisation (marriage migrants)

Residence requirements are relaxed where a marriage to a Korean national continues.

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Early adaptation programmes for immigrants

A free course covering the basics of life in Korea, aimed at new arrivals.

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