Common Visas for Foreigners in South Korea

1. Tourist Visa (K-ETA)

Purpose: The Tourist Visa is ideal for short-term visits, whether you're coming for tourism, attending business meetings, or visiting family and friends. This visa is perfect for those looking to explore the vibrant culture and historical sites of South Korea.

Eligibility: Available to nationals of most countries, though specific entry requirements may vary.

Duration: Typically valid for up to 90 days, though some nationalities may be granted shorter or longer stays depending on bilateral agreements with South Korea.

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2. Working Holiday Visa (H-1)

Purpose: The Working Holiday Visa is designed for young travelers (aged 18-30) who want to experience life in South Korea while earning money to support their stay. It allows holders to work part-time or short-term jobs, providing a great opportunity to immerse in the local culture and gain work experience abroad.

Eligibility: Available to citizens of countries that have a bilateral Working Holiday agreement with South Korea. Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old and meet specific health and financial requirements.

Duration: The visa is valid for 1 year, allowing multiple entries during that time.

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3. Instructor Work Visa (E-2)

Purpose: The E-2 Visa is primarily for foreign language instructors, particularly for teaching English at schools, private language institutes (hagwons), or other educational institutions in South Korea. It is one of the most popular visas for foreigners in South Korea.

Eligibility: Typically, applicants must be native speakers of the language they intend to teach and hold at least a bachelor's degree. A contract with a sponsoring educational institution is also required.

Duration: Usually valid for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal if the employment contract is extended.

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4. Work Visa (E-7)

Purpose: The E-7 Visa is for professionals working in specialized fields such as engineering, IT, natural sciences, and other skilled occupations. This visa caters to those with specific technical skills that are in demand in South Korea.

Eligibility: Applicants must have a job offer in a recognized field and meet specific educational and professional experience criteria. The sponsoring company must also demonstrate the need to hire a foreign worker.

Duration: Typically issued for 1 year, with renewal options available based on continued employment.

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5. Business Visa (D-8)

Purpose: The D-8 Visa is designed for business investors, entrepreneurs, and high-level executives involved in the management of a business or investment in South Korea. This visa supports the establishment and operation of a business in the country.

Eligibility: Applicants must be significant investors or senior managers in a company that has invested a substantial amount in South Korea. Proper documentation of the investment and business operations is required.

Duration: Typically issued for 1 year, with the option for renewal as long as the business remains operational and profitable.

6. Student Visa (D-2)

Purpose: The D-2 Visa is for international students who have been accepted into an academic program at a South Korean university or college. It covers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies, as well as research programs.

Eligibility: Applicants must have an offer of admission from a recognized South Korean educational institution. They must also demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.

Duration: The visa duration is generally tied to the length of the academic program, with options to renew as long as the student remains enrolled and in good academic standing.

7. General Training Visa (D-4)

Purpose: The D-4 Visa is intended for individuals who wish to engage in non-degree educational or training programs, such as language schools, cultural training, or other short-term learning experiences. This visa is popular among those looking to improve their Korean language skills.

Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a recognized training program or educational institution in South Korea. Proof of enrollment and sufficient funds to support the stay are required.

Duration: Typically valid for up to 6 months or 1 year, depending on the length of the program, with the possibility of extension.

8. Spouse Visa (F-6)

Purpose: The F-6 Visa is for foreign spouses of South Korean citizens. This visa allows the holder to live and work in South Korea while maintaining a family life with their Korean spouse.

Eligibility: Applicants must be legally married to a South Korean citizen and provide proof of the marriage, such as a marriage certificate. The couple may also need to demonstrate financial stability.

Duration: Typically issued for 1 to 3 years, with the possibility of renewal. Over time, this visa may lead to permanent residency.

9. Permanent Resident Visa (F-5)

Purpose: The F-5 Visa grants permanent residency status to foreigners who meet specific criteria, such as long-term residency, marriage to a Korean citizen, or exceptional contributions to South Korean society.

Eligibility: Applicants typically need to have lived in South Korea for several years under another visa type (such as the F-6 or E-7) or meet other eligibility requirements, such as financial stability and language proficiency.

Duration: Permanent residency, though the visa must be renewed every 10 years.

10. Dependent Family Visa (F-3)

Purpose: The F-3 Visa allows the family members of foreigners who hold long-term visas (e.g., E-2, D-8, D-2) to live with them in South Korea. This visa is designed to support the unity of families of expatriates.

Eligibility: Applicants must be the spouse or minor children of a primary visa holder. Documentation proving the relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates, is required.

Duration: The visa duration is linked to the primary visa holder's visa, with the same renewal terms.

11. Short-Term Work Visa (C-4)

Purpose: The C-4 Visa is for individuals who need to work in South Korea for a short period, often for temporary assignments, contract work, or specific projects. It is ideal for those engaged in gigs, freelance work, or special tasks.

Eligibility: Applicants must have a contract or invitation from a South Korean company specifying the nature of the short-term work. Documentation of the job offer and sufficient funds for the stay are required.

Duration: Typically issued for up to 90 days, with the possibility of a single extension if necessary.

12. Cultural Activities Visa (D-1)

Purpose: The D-1 Visa is for individuals participating in cultural, artistic, or religious activities in South Korea. It is suitable for performers, artists, and religious workers who wish to engage in cultural exchange or professional activities within South Korea.

Eligibility: Applicants must be involved in recognized cultural or artistic activities, either as professionals or as part of an organized program. Supporting documentation, such as contracts or sponsorship letters, may be required.

Duration: Typically issued for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal depending on the nature of the activities and continued involvement.