Types of Residency in South Korea
South Korea offers several types of residency for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the country. The different types of residency have different requirements and conditions.
Short-Term Stay Visa
This visa is for foreign nationals who want to stay in South Korea for up to 90 days. This is suitable for those who are visiting the country for tourism or for business meetings. There are several categories of short-term stay visas, including those for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Working Holiday Visa
The Working Holiday Visa is for individuals who are between the ages of 18 and 30 and want to experience living and working in South Korea. The visa is valid for up to 12 months and allows the holder to work while traveling in the country.
E-1 Visa
The E-1 Visa is for foreign nationals who are coming to South Korea to conduct business with a South Korean company. This visa is also known as the trade visa and requires a business relationship between the South Korean company and the foreign national’s employer.
E-2 Visa
The E-2 Visa is for foreign nationals who want to work as English teachers in South Korea. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include having a bachelor’s degree and a clean criminal record.
E-3 Visa
The E-3 Visa is for foreign nationals who want to work in South Korea as research professors. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include having a doctorate degree and a clean criminal record.
E-4 Visa
The E-4 Visa is for foreign nationals who want to work in South Korea as technicians or experts in a specific field. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include having a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience and a clean criminal record.
E-5 Visa
The E-5 Visa is for foreign nationals who want to work in South Korea as professional workers. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include having a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field and a clean criminal record.
F-2 Visa
The F-2 Visa is for foreign nationals who are married to a South Korean citizen or permanent resident. This visa allows the holder to work and live in South Korea for up to three years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include having a clean criminal record.
F-4 Visa
The F-4 Visa is for foreign nationals who are of Korean descent and want to live and work in South Korea. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. The requirements for this visa include proving Korean descent and having a clean criminal record.
Permanent Residency
Foreign nationals who have lived in South Korea for a certain period of time and meet certain requirements can apply for permanent residency. Permanent residency allows the holder to live and work in South Korea indefinitely. The requirements for permanent residency include having lived in South Korea for a minimum of five years and having a clean criminal record.
Applying for Residency in South Korea
Application Process
The application process for residency in South Korea depends on the type of visa being applied for. In general, applicants must submit an application form and provide supporting documents. Some visa types also require an interview with an immigration officer.
Supporting Documents
The supporting documents required for a visa application in South Korea vary depending on the type of visa being applied for. Common supporting documents include a passport, a completed application form, a recent photo, a criminal record check, and proof of financial support.
Registration
All foreign nationals who reside in South Korea must register with the local immigration office within 90 days of arrival and obtain a residency card. The residency card serves as proof of legal residency in South Korea and must be carried at all times.
Up-to-Date Information on Residence in South Korea
- Ministry of Justice, Immigration Bureau: http://www.moj.go.kr/HP/ENG/index.do
- Korean Immigration Service: http://www.immigration.go.kr/HP/IMM80/index.do