Requirements for F-5 permanent residence

Permanent residence requirements differ greatly by category. Check your own case rather than internet posts.

What is generally assessed

1. Residence period — how long you have lived legally in Korea. The standard varies by status.
2. Income and assets — whether you can support yourself. The threshold changes yearly.
3. Good conduct — criminal record, unpaid taxes or insurance, immigration violations.
4. Korean language and social understanding — TOPIK or completion of the Social Integration Program (KIIP).
5. Ability to support dependants — if applying with family.

Example categories

• Converting from F-6 (marriage migrant)
• Converting from F-2 (residence)
• Large investors and outstanding talent in specific fields
• Family of permanent residents or nationals
• Other categories set by law

Steps

1. Identify your category. 1345 or HiKorea.
2. Fill the gaps. Korean language and income proof are usually the crux.
3. Complete the Social Integration Program. It takes time, so start early.
4. Prepare documents and apply.
5. Check the result. Review takes time.

What you need

• Passport, Alien Registration Card, application form
• Income and asset evidence
• Korean language or KIIP completion certificate
• Criminal record documents
• Category-specific documents and the fee — check on HiKorea

Where to go

• HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · 1345
• Your immigration office
• 1577-1366 Danuri Helpline (13 languages)

Questions people ask

My residence period is too short. The period differs by category. Ask 1345 whether converting to F-2 first is a route for you.

I once fell behind on taxes or health insurance. It can affect the review. Clear it before applying, and prepare an explanation if there were circumstances.

Must I sit a Korean test? Completing KIIP often substitutes for TOPIK. Check your own category.

Can I reapply if refused? Yes. Find out the reason and address it.

Take care

Brokers offering to "get you permanent residence" are fraud. False documents are grounds for cancellation and deportation, and even a status already granted is revoked.

Related

f5-permanent-residency · f2-residence-visa · f2-points-system · change-of-status

Source

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