Understanding the F-2 points system

The points system scores several items and judges by the total. You can raise your score by filling the weak items.

What is scored

• Age
• Education — degree and where it was obtained
• Korean language — TOPIK level or Social Integration Program (KIIP) stage
• Income — annual income level
• Work experience in Korea
• Volunteering and social contribution
• Bonus points for research, awards and qualifications
• Deductions — legal violations, unpaid taxes

Weightings and the pass mark change. Check the current table on HiKorea or with 1345. This guide does not print scores.

How to raise your score

1. Korean — raise your TOPIK level or complete more KIIP stages. The most reliable route.
2. Income — only counts if you have a proper contract and declared wages.
3. Qualifications and degrees — obtain relevant certifications.
4. Volunteering — do it through certified organisations so it is recorded.
5. Manage deductions — avoid fines, arrears and violations.

Steps

1. Check the current scoring table on HiKorea.
2. Calculate your own score.
3. Fill the gaps. Korean is usually the most efficient.
4. Gather the evidence documents.
5. Apply for the change of status.

What you need

• Degree and transcript documents (may need apostille or consular confirmation)
• TOPIK results or KIIP completion certificate
• Income evidence (withholding receipts, income statements)
• Employment and career certificates
• Volunteering certificates

Where to go

• HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · 1345
• The Social Integration Network (KIIP)
• Your immigration office

Questions people ask

My score is short. Korean and qualifications are the items that rise fastest. Go through your score sheet with 1345.

Is my home country degree recognised? Yes, but apostille or consular confirmation may be required.

My wages are paid in cash. Undeclared income cannot be evidenced. A proper contract and bank-paid wages matter.

I heard the weightings changed. They change often. Check both when you start preparing and when you apply.

Take care

Beware brokers offering to build your score for you. False documents are grounds for cancellation. Buying and selling volunteer hours is also detected and penalised.

Related

f2-residence-visa · f5-requirements · social-integration-program · change-of-status

Source

Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08