What is the F-2 residence visa
F-2 is a residence status for settling in Korea. It is freer than work statuses such as E-9 and is a step towards permanent residence (F-5).
Who receives it
- Points-based outstanding talent (F-2-7) — assessed on education, income, Korean, age and more
- Long-term residents who meet the conditions after a qualifying legal stay
- Recognised refugees
- Spouses and children of nationals or permanent residents, and other categories set by law
- There are several tracks, each with different requirements
Advantages of F-2
- Few employment restrictions, with relatively free workplace change
- Easier to invite family
- Leads to a permanent residence application
- A longer period of stay, so fewer extensions
Steps
- Identify which track applies to you. 1345 or HiKorea.
- Meet the requirements — income, Korean, the Social Integration Program.
- Apply for a change of status on HiKorea or in person.
- Check the result after review.
What you need
- Passport, Alien Registration Card, application form
- Income and employment evidence
- Education documents (if applicable)
- Korean language ability or KIIP completion
- Criminal record documents
- The fee — check current details on HiKorea
Where to go
- HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr · 1345
- Your immigration office
- 1577-1366 Danuri Helpline
Questions people ask
Can I go from E-9 straight to F-2? Directly is difficult; there are routes via E-7-4 (skilled worker) and similar. Check your case with 1345.
What is the points system? See the f2-points-system guide.
What is the difference between F-2 and F-5? F-2 is a residence status you keep extending; F-5 is permanent residence with no extensions needed.
Can my family come too? Some tracks allow accompanying family. Check the requirements.
Take care
Requirements change often. Confirm the current standard with 1345 and immigration, not with a broker.
Related
f2-points-system · f5-requirements · change-of-status · e7-4-skilled-worker
Source
Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08