Visa requirements

Korea (Republic of)

General visa requirements for travelling to Korea (Republic of). These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Work / Immigration visa (Residence Visa (F-2))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1095 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 1-3 years, renewable
Entry: Multiple entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible. Specific requirements vary by F-2 sub-category.
Purpose of visit
Long-term residence for family members of Korean nationals, spouses of permanent residents, or skilled workers qualifying under the points system
Includes
- Long-term residence
Financial
Must demonstrate stable income or financial resources. For F-2-7, minimum annual income requirements apply.

Minimum funds: USD 10,000 (varies by sub-category)
Criminal record
Clean criminal record required

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Bank statement
Minimum balance: USD 10,000; Months required: 6
Police clearance
Countries required: Home country and/or Korean police clearance; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather identity documents, family relationship proof (if applicable), financial documents, and criminal background check
Online application
Complete visa application form. For F-2-7, complete the points assessment form.
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy/consulate or immigration office in Korea (if changing status)
Processing wait
Wait 4-8 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with F-2 visa or receive status change confirmation

Work / Immigration visa (Researcher Visa (E-3))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: Duration of research contract, typically 1-2 years, renewable
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible
Employment
Must hold a master's degree or higher and have a research contract with a Korean institution

Required status: Master's degree + research contract
Purpose of visit
Scientific research in natural sciences and advanced technology at Korean research institutions or universities
Includes
- Scientific research

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)
Professional license
Accepted licenses: Master's degree or higher in relevant scientific or technical field; Must be translated: No
Research proposal
Must be peer reviewed: No
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain research contract, gather academic credentials and research proposal
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with E-3 visa

Work / Immigration visa (Overseas Korean Visa (F-4))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 2 years (multiple entry), renewable
Entry: Multiple entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Foreign nationals of Korean descent who were formerly Korean citizens or are descendants of Korean nationals born abroad
Purpose of visit
Long-term stay for overseas Koreans to live and work in Korea with relatively unrestricted employment rights
Includes
- Long-term stay for overseas Koreans

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Birth certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather proof of Korean heritage, passport, and supporting documents
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with F-4 visa

Work / Immigration visa (Family Visitor Visa (F-1))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 1-2 years, renewable
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible. Must be a family member of an F-4, H-2 visa holder, or meet other F-1 sub-category requirements.
Purpose of visit
Joining or visiting family members residing in Korea. Includes spouse and minor children of eligible visa holders.
Includes
- Family visit/joining

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Bank statement
Minimum balance: USD 5,000; Months required: 3
Sponsorship letter
Accepted sponsors: Family member residing in Korea with alien registration card
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather family relationship documents, sponsor's alien registration card copy, invitation letter, and financial proof
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with F-1 visa

Work / Immigration visa (Permanent Residence Visa (F-5))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 3650 days
Processing time: 2-6 months
Fee: USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: Indefinite, with re-entry permit renewal every 10 years
Entry: Multiple entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible, but must have resided in Korea for at least 5 consecutive years (varies by sub-category)
Financial
Must demonstrate stable income above the GNI per capita level, regular tax payments, and financial stability

Minimum funds: Above GNI per capita (varies annually)
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal record in Korea and home country
Visa history
Must have maintained legal residence status in Korea for at least 5 consecutive years (less for certain categories like marriage immigrants)

Required history: 5+ years legal residence in Korea

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Bank statement
Minimum balance: USD 30,000; Months required: 12
Police clearance
Countries required: Home country and Korea; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Permanent residence application form; Form url: https://www.hikorea.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at immigration office; Amount: USD 90
Language proficiency
Accepted tests: TOPIK Level 5 or KIIP Level 5 social integration program; Minimum score: TOPIK Level 5

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather residence history documents, financial proof, tax payment records, criminal background checks, and Korean language proficiency certificate
Online application
Complete permanent residence application form (apply at Korean immigration office, not embassy)
Fee payment
Pay application fee (approximately USD 90)
Document submission
Submit application at the Korean Immigration Office (Hi Korea) - this is done in-country
Interview
Attend interview at immigration office if required
Processing wait
Wait 2-6 months for processing and background verification
Visa collection
Receive F-5 permanent residence card

Work / Immigration visa (Professor Visa (E-1))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: Duration of contract, typically 1-2 years, renewable
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible
Employment
Must have a confirmed teaching or research contract with a Korean university

Required status: Teaching/research contract with Korean university
Purpose of visit
University-level teaching, lecturing, or research at an accredited Korean institution
Includes
- University teaching/research

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Professional license
Accepted licenses: Master's or doctorate degree, publications list, academic credentials; Must be translated: No
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain employment contract, gather academic credentials, and prepare supporting documents
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with E-1 visa

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Visa (H-1))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: Free or approximately USD 40 (varies by country)
Validity: 12 months from entry
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of 25 countries with bilateral Working Holiday agreements: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, USA, France, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Czech Republic, Italy, UK, Austria, Hungary, Israel, Netherlands, Portugal, Belgium, Chile, Poland, Spain, Argentina

Eligible countries: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Czechia, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Province of China, United Kingdom, United States of America
Age
Must be between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive) at the time of visa application. Can apply up to the day before turning 31.

Max age: 30; Min age: 18
Purpose of visit
Cultural exchange, travel, and temporary employment. Maximum 1,300 working hours during the stay.
Includes
- Cultural exchange
- travel
- temporary work (max 1
- 300 hours)
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds (approximately USD 3,000) to support initial period of stay

Minimum funds: USD 3,000
Health
Must be in good health and have travel/health insurance

Required vaccinations: None specified

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Bank statement
Minimum balance: USD 3,000; Months required: 3
Travel insurance
Coverage area: South Korea; Minimum coverage: Full duration of stay
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Working Holiday visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: Free or USD 40 (varies by country)

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, bank statements, insurance proof, flight reservation, and any country-specific documents (e.g., university enrollment proof for US citizens)
Online application
Complete the Working Holiday visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa fee if applicable (varies by nationality)
Document submission
Submit application at the Korean embassy or consulate in your country of nationality
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with H-1 Working Holiday visa

Work / Immigration visa (Foreign Language Instructor Visa (E-2))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 395 days
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 13 months, renewable
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
For English teaching: citizens of the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa only. Other language instruction may accept different nationalities.

Eligible countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America
Employment
Must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and have a confirmed employment contract with a licensed Korean educational institution

Required status: Bachelor's degree + employment contract
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal background check, apostilled, less than 6 months old
Health
Must pass a health examination within 30 days of arrival in Korea

Required vaccinations: None specified

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Police clearance
Countries required: Home country (apostilled); Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)
Professional license
Accepted licenses: Bachelor's degree (apostilled). TEFL/TESOL/CELTA advantageous but not always mandatory; Must be translated: No
Health exam
Panel physician required: Within 30 days of arrival in Korea; Validity months: 1
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain employment contract, apostilled degree, apostilled criminal background check, and other documents
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee (approximately USD 60)
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing
Visa collection
Collect passport with E-2 visa
Biometrics
Complete health examination at a designated hospital within 30 days of arrival in Korea

Work / Immigration visa (Marriage Immigrant Visa (F-6))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1095 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 1-3 years, renewable
Entry: Multiple entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible. Must be legally married to a Korean citizen.
Purpose of visit
To live with Korean spouse in Korea. F-6 holders have unrestricted work rights.
Includes
- Live with Korean spouse
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal record

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Bank statement
Minimum balance: USD 10,000; Months required: 6
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Lease agreement, property ownership, or residency verification; Must cover full stay: Yes
Police clearance
Countries required: Home country (apostilled or consular notarized); Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form; Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Marriage certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)
Health exam
Panel physician required: May be required depending on nationality; Validity months: 6

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather marriage certificate, spouse's Korean ID and family register, financial proof, housing proof, and criminal background check
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee
Document submission
Submit application at Korean embassy or consulate in home country
Interview
Both spouses may be interviewed separately at the embassy/consulate to verify the legitimacy of the marriage
Processing wait
Wait 4-8 weeks for processing and background checks
Visa collection
Collect passport with F-6 visa

Work / Immigration visa (Skilled Worker Visa (E-7))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1095 days
Processing time: 3-6 weeks
Fee: USD 60 (single entry), USD 90 (multiple entry)
Validity: 1-3 years, renewable
Entry: Single entry

Eligibility

Nationality
All nationalities eligible
Employment
Must have a confirmed job offer from a Korea-registered employer. Employer must demonstrate the necessity of hiring a foreign worker and obtain an employment recommendation letter.

Required status: Job offer + employment recommendation
Financial
Employer must offer at least the minimum salary: KRW 28.67 million/year for E-7-1 professional, KRW 25.15 million/year for E-7-2 semi-professional (2025 rates)

Minimum funds: KRW 28.67M/year (E-7-1) or KRW 25.15M/year (E-7-2)
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal record
Health
Must have health insurance coverage

Required vaccinations: None specified

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: One recent passport-sized color photograph
Police clearance
Countries required: Home country; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Visa application form (Exhibit 34); Form url: https://www.visa.go.kr
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash, card at embassy; Amount: USD 60 (single entry)
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Professional license
Accepted licenses: Master's degree (no experience required), or bachelor's degree with 1+ year experience, or 5+ years experience without a degree. All foreign documents must be apostilled or consular notarized; Must be translated: No
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Employer obtains employment recommendation letter and prepares foreigner utilization plan. Gather work contract, academic credentials, CV, and criminal background check.
Online application
Complete visa application form
Fee payment
Pay visa application fee (approximately USD 60)
Document submission
Submit application with all supporting documents at Korean embassy/consulate
Processing wait
Wait 3-6 weeks for processing (employer's documents are reviewed by Korean immigration first)
Visa collection
Collect passport with E-7 visa

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.