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South Korea · Work visa

F-2-7 Points-Based Residency Visa

Processing
2-8 weeks
Cost
From ₩160,000
Validity
1-5 years

Long-term residency status awarded on a points system (age, education, Korean language, income, experience). Frees the holder from employer sponsorship and permits nearly unrestricted work.

Requirements

  • Score 80+ points out of the assessment table (age, education, TOPIK level, income, Korean study/training bonuses)
  • A qualifying status such as E-1 to E-7, D-8 or D-10, usually after at least one year in Korea
  • Immediate application possible regardless of stay length with annual income above roughly KRW 40 million
  • No serious criminal or immigration violations
  • Proof of stable income and accommodation

Time and cost

Processing time
2-8 weeks at the local immigration office
Validity
1-5 years, renewable
Cost

From ₩160,000

Required

  • ₩130,000 status change fee
  • ₩30,000 residence card fee
Path to residency
F-5 permanent residence typically after 3 years on F-2-7

Documents

  • Valid passport and residence card

    Current Korean residence card (ARC)

  • Points self-assessment with evidence

    Degree certificates, TOPIK score, income tax proof for each point claimed

  • Income documentation

    Tax office income certificate (sodeuk geumaek jeungmyeong)

  • Employment or business proof

    Certificate of employment or business registration

  • Housing contract (if it applies)

    Lease or ownership evidence

Tips

  • TOPIK level has a strong effect on points; level 4 or above improves most applications
  • The Korea Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP) earns bonus points and can substitute for TOPIK
  • Spouse and minor children can obtain accompanying F-2 status