LocalNomad Β· Korea Visa Guide
Change Your Visa Status in Korea
See which visa you can change to from your current status, what's required, and how long it takes.
Based on published Korean immigration guidelines. This is not legal advice. For your specific situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (νμ μ¬) or attorney (λ³νΈμ¬).
Where can you go from F-6?
2 in-country change paths confirmed
Permanent Resident Visa (Spouse of Korean National β F-5-2)
According to published guidelines: (1) 2+ years of continuous residence in Korea on F-6-1 status, (2) ongoing valid marriage to a Korean national (or qualifying F-6-2/F-6-3 circumstances), (3) Korean language competency β KIIP Level 5 completion ONLY (TOPIK is not accepted for F-5-2 since March 2019), (4) established livelihood base: assets of at least β©30,000,000, and income at or above the per capita GNI (~β©49,955,000/year based on most recently published Bank of Korea figure), (5) good moral character.
Points-based Resident Visa
F-6 holders may transition to F-2 if they accumulate 80+ points on the F-2 points system (age, income, Korean language, tax history, etc.). This is less common than the F-5 pathway but available for those who prefer an intermediate step.
Information for general reference only. Final decisions on visa status changes rest solely with Korea Immigration Service. Requirements may change β always verify with the official source before applying.