Preparing for naturalisation
Completing the Social Integration Programme makes preparing for naturalisation much easier.
The preparation route
- The Social Integration Programme (KIIP) — Korean language and understanding Korean society, in stages. See kiip-overview.
- A pre-assessment determines your starting level.
- On finishing the stages you sit the comprehensive evaluation.
- Completion counts in your favour in parts of a naturalisation application.
- Confirm the requirements and process with 1345 and the immigration office. See naturalization-overview.
Where to study
- Check providers and schedules on the Social Integration Network (socinet.go.kr).
- Family centres and foreign residents' support centres also teach Korean.
- Free Korean classes at community centres and lifelong learning centres.
- Online courses are sometimes available.
What you need
- Alien registration card
- Registration on the Social Integration Network
- Time to attend — there are attendance requirements
Where to go
- 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (naturalisation and residence)
- Social Integration Network www.socinet.go.kr
- Your nearest family centre or foreign residents' support centre
- 1577-1366 Danuri Call Centre (multilingual)
- Your local immigration office
Questions people ask
My Korean isn't good enough. Start at the level your pre-assessment gives you. You don't need to be good from the start. See korean-class-free.
Work leaves me no time. Some providers run evening and weekend courses. Check the Social Integration Network.
Is there a fee? It depends on the course. Check on the Social Integration Network and ask whether your local authority subsidises it.
What are the requirements for naturalisation? They include length of residence, means of livelihood, conduct and Korean language ability, and vary by individual circumstances. Always confirm with 1345 or the immigration office.
Take care
Beware brokers demanding money to "guarantee naturalisation". No one can handle the assessment on your behalf. Falsifying documents can mean refusal and criminal prosecution. Verify information only through 1345 and the immigration office.
Related
kiip-overview · naturalization-overview · korean-class-free · education-support-adult · socinet
Source
Ministry of Justice, Social Integration Network www.socinet.go.kr / As of 2026-08