1. Eligible Applicants and Scope of Activity 

Scope of Activity   

Not subject to restrictions on activities according to the classification of residence status.

Eligible Applicants 

Persons who do not fall under any of the categories in Article 46, Paragraph 1 of the Act, and who meet any of the following categories:

• A person who has reached the age of majority under the Civil Act of the Republic of Korea and has resided in the Republic of Korea for five or more years with a residence status from the-7 Resident (D-7) to the-7 Specific Activities (E-7) as listed in Attached Table 1-2, or with the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 24.
• A spouse or minor child of a national or a person with permanent residence status (F-5) who has resided in the Republic of Korea for two or more years, and a person who has applied for a residence status grant under Article 23 of the Act based on birth in the Republic of Korea, provided that the person's father or mother had permanent residence status (F-5) in the Republic of Korea at the time of birth, and recognized by the Minister of Justice.
• A foreign investor who has invested USD 500,000 in accordance with the 「Foreign Investment Promotion Act」 and employs five or more nationals.
• A person who has resided continuously in the Republic of Korea for two or more years with the F-4 Overseas Korean residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 26, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea.
• A person of foreign nationality as referred to in Article 2, Clause 2 of the 「Act on the Treatment of Foreigners of Korean Nationality and the Legal Status of Persons of Foreign Nationality」 who meets the requirements for acquiring nationality under the 「Nationality Act」.
• A person who previously held the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1, Item 27 of the former 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」 (referring to the one before its partial amendment by Presidential Decree No. 17579, promulgated and enforced on April 18, 2002), including those who have held a previous residence status corresponding thereto, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea.
• A person who meets any of the following criteria and is recognized by the Minister of Justice.
• a. A person who has obtained a doctorate degree in a specified field abroad and is employed by a domestic company or the like at the time of application for permanent residence status (F-5).
• b. A person who has completed a regular course at a domestic graduate school and obtained a doctorate degree.
• A person who holds a bachelor's degree or higher in a field designated by the Minister of Justice or a technical qualification certificate designated by the Minister of Justice, has resided in Korea for three or more years, and is employed by a domestic company at the time of application for permanent residence status and receives a salary equivalent to or exceeding an amount designated by the Minister of Justice.
• A person with outstanding abilities in specific fields such as science, management, education, culture, arts, and sports, recognized by the Minister of Justice.
• A person recognized by the Minister of Justice as having made special contributions to the Republic of Korea.
• A person aged 60 or over who receives a pension of an amount designated by the Minister of Justice from abroad.
• A person who is engaged in employment activities with the H-2 Visiting Employment status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 29, and meets all the requirements from 1) to 3) of item 24. Residence (F-2) in the same table, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice considering factors such as length of service, employment region, characteristics of the industry, labor shortage situation, and preference for national employment.
• A person who has resided in the Republic of Korea for three or more years with the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 24. "sa" and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea.
• A person who has maintained an investment counterpart for five or more years with the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 24. "cha", and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea, along with their spouse and children (only those who meet the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice).
• A person who has resided continuously in the Republic of Korea for three or more years with the D-8 Business Investment status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 11. "damok", who has attracted investment of 300 million KRW or more from investors and employs two or more nationals, meeting the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice.
• A person who has invested an amount designated and publicly announced by the Minister of Justice or more, with the condition of maintaining the investment for five or more years, and meets the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice.
• A person who has resided continuously in the Republic of Korea for three or more years with the D-8 Business Investment status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 11. "gamok", and is a key professional for research and development facilities in accordance with Article 25, Paragraph 1, Clause 4 of the 「Enforcement Decree of the Foreign Investment Promotion Act」, recognized by the Minister of Justice.
• A person who has resided in the Republic of Korea for two or more years with the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 24. "damok".

2. Maximum Period of Stay Granted at Once

No upper limit

3. Activities Other Than Permitted Under Residence Status

Not applicable

4. Change or Addition of Place of Employment

Not applicable

5. Grant of Residence Status

Grant of F-5 Permanent Residence status for a child born in the Republic of Korea to a parent who is residing in the Republic of Korea with F-5 Permanent Residence status, upon application for the grant of residence status for the child.

• a. Application for grant of residence status within 90 days from the date of birth.
• ※ Children born abroad are excluded.
• b. Required documents
• ① Application form (Form No. 34), passport, one standard passport photo, fee.
• ② Documents proving family relationship (e.g., birth certificate).
• ③ Document proving identity in the country of nationality.

6. Change of Residence Status Permission

Grant of F-5 Permanent Residence status, excluding overseas Koreans.

□ Types of Permanent Residence Status and Detailed Codes

□ Must meet all of the following requirements

※ F-5-2/3, F-5-6, F-5-7, F-5-14, F-5-27 are subject to separate guidelines.

1. Good Conduct Requirement

○ A person is recognized as meeting the good conduct requirement if they do not fall under any of the following:

1) Domestic Crime Screening Criteria

• a) A person convicted of a specific violent crime as defined in Article 2 of the 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Violent Crimes」.
• b) A person who has been sentenced to imprisonment without bail or heavier punishment for violating the Immigration Act or other laws, and for whom five years have not passed since the execution of the sentence was completed or suspended, or the sentence was suspended.
• c) A person who has been sentenced to a suspended sentence of imprisonment or heavier for violating the Immigration Act or other laws, and for whom five years have not passed since the judgment became final and conclusive.
• d) A person who has been sentenced to a fine for violating the Immigration Act or other laws, and for whom three years have not passed since the date the fine was paid.
• \* In cases of detention in a labor facility due to non-payment, the date of completion of detention shall be considered the date of payment.
• ※ The same applies to persons with obligations to pay redemption amounts.
• e) A person for whom five years have not passed since the date of violation of Article 7, Paragraph 1 or 4 of the Immigration Act, or Article 12, Paragraph 1 or 2 of the Immigration Act.
• f) A person who has violated the Immigration Act three or more times within the five years preceding the application date. This excludes individuals who have received a fine.
• g) A person who has been ordered to depart under Article 59, Paragraph 2 of the Immigration Act and has not departed for seven years from the date of departure, or a person who has been ordered to depart under Article 68 of the Immigration Act and has not departed for five years from the date of departure.
• h) A person who has received a violation fine of 5 million KRW or more for violating the 「Immigration Act」 within the last three years, or whose accumulated violation fines amount to 7 million KRW or more.
• i) A person who has violated domestic laws and falls under the grounds for expulsion under Article 46, Paragraph 1 of the Immigration Act, but has been granted permission to stay considering humanitarian reasons, and for whom five years have not passed since the date of the residence permission decision.

2) Overseas Crime Screening Criteria

• a) A person who has been sentenced in a foreign country for "specific violent crimes" as defined in Article 2 of the 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Violent Crimes」, or for threats, extortion, fraud, driving under the influence of alcohol three or more times, voice phishing, or drug offenses.
• b) A person sentenced to a penalty equivalent to or heavier than imprisonment without bail for other offenses in a foreign country (residence status will be restricted for 10 years from the date of sentencing).
• c) For overseas crimes, confirmation of overseas criminal record is omitted if the applicant falls under any of the following cases, as per Attachment 1) Overseas Criminal Record Certificate:
• (1) A person applying for any of the following permanent residence statuses: High-Investment Investor (F-5-5), Advanced Technology Doctorate (F-5-9), General Doctorate (F-5-15), Person with Specific Field Abilities (F-5-11), Person with Special Merit (F-5-12).
• (2) If the applicant is a minor at the time of application.
• (3) A person born in Korea or who entered Korea before the age of 14 and has not resided continuously abroad for six months or more after reaching the age of 14.
• (4) A person who has previously submitted a home country criminal record certificate and is residing in Korea, and has not resided continuously abroad for six months or more.
• (5) A person who submitted a criminal record certificate when applying for a visa at a diplomatic mission abroad, and is applying for a change of permanent residence status (F-5) within three months from the visa issuance date.
• (6) A person for whom issuance is restricted due to the issuing country's standards, or who cannot meet residency requirements (the applicant must provide evidence of inability to submit the certificate).

As of April 2022, a minor is defined as under 14 years of age (this will be subject to change based on legal amendments).

2. Livelihood Maintenance Requirement

The applicant must demonstrate the ability to maintain their livelihood according to the following standards, based on their income or the assets of their family members with whom they share a livelihood. Income and assets cannot be combined for application.

The livelihood maintenance requirement varies according to the specific criteria for each type of permanent residence status (income only, income or assets, etc.).

However, the applicant's own income or assets must be at least 50% of the standard amount. (This exclusion does not apply to applicants raising minor children or to minor children themselves.)

For applicants of the Bachelor's/Master's and Qualification Certificate (F-5-10) or Pension Beneficiary (F-5-13) permanent residence statuses, only the applicant's income is considered.

a. Subjects for Income and Asset Ownership

○ Principle

The applicant and family members (spouse (excluding common-law spouse), minor children, parents (excluding spouse's parents)) who have continuously resided with the applicant and shared a livelihood during the income application period.

Residing at the same address (place of stay) is generally recognized as cohabitation.

b. Income Calculation Period

○ Principle: The preceding year of the year in which the application date falls (hereinafter referred to as "the year prior to the application year").

Example) For individuals applying for permanent residence on January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, income from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021, will be calculated for both (※ Not income calculated retroactively for 365 days from the application date).

○ Exception: The year preceding the year prior to the application year (hereinafter referred to as "the second year prior to the application year").

□ This applies when official documents related to taxes paid, such as income certificates, are not issued by tax authorities as of the application date.

Example) ☞ If applying for permanent residence on February 1, 2020, and the "2019 Income Certificate" is not yet available as of the application date: the income calculation period will be the second year prior to the application year.

Income certificate for 2018 will be used for examination, with 2018 set as the income calculation period.

☞ If applying for permanent residence on September 1, 2020, and the "2019 Income Certificate" is available as of the application date: the income calculation period will be the year prior to the application year.

Income certificate for 2019 will be used for examination, with 2019 set as the income calculation period.

c. Asset Ownership Criteria

Assets: Financial and real assets continuously held for six months or more from the date of acquisition until the date of application for permanent residence.

The value of both financial and real assets must be maintained until permission is granted.

○ Scope of Recognition

The total net household assets (excluding liabilities) of the applicant or their family members with whom they share a livelihood must meet the average net asset standard announced by Statistics Korea for the preceding year.

\* Statistics Korea announced the average net asset per household as of the end of March 2021 to be 414.52 million KRW.

(Financial Assets) Savings accounts, funds, insurance, stocks, bonds, and security deposits for rent/lease.

\* Funds, insurance, stocks, and bonds will be recognized by their (expected) surrender value.

(Real Assets) Official property prices or publicly announced market prices of real estate such as housing and land.

(Liabilities) Liabilities as stated in the credit information inquiry of the applicant and their family members with whom they share a livelihood.

d. Calculation Standards and Required Documents

· Real Estate Registry, Lease Agreement, Deposit Agreement, Bank Balance Certificates (for savings/time deposits), etc.

e. Types of Income Recognized

○ The following incomes under Article 4, Paragraph 1 (Comprehensive Income) of the 「Income Tax Act」 will be recognized in combination, provided that taxes have been paid for each income.

· For applicants of the Pension Beneficiary permanent residence status (F-5-13), only the pension amount received from abroad will be recognized as income.

○ Income that is subject to income tax but has not been taxed will not be recognized.

· However, if the income is tax-exempt according to Article 12 (Tax-Exempt Income) of the 「Income Tax Act」, its recognition as income will be determined after reviewing relevant supporting documents.

○ Assets such as housing are not recognized as income. However, if income is generated from assets and taxes are paid, the income and taxes will be recognized.

Example) If the applicant or their family member who is the income source owns a house and generates rental income, it can be recognized as '⑧ Business Income'.

f. Proof of Recognized Income and Documents for Judging Impact on National Finance

• ○ "Income Certificate (issued by tax office)" or other official documents stating income and paid income tax.
• ○ Official documents related to the payment of obligations such as local taxes, customs duties, health insurance premiums, etc.
• ☞ Submission may be waived if the Immigration Office confirms through the system that there are no outstanding payments.
• ○ Relevant supporting documents for income that is tax-exempt according to Article 12 (Tax-Exempt Income) of the 「Income Tax Act」.

g. Criteria for Comparing Recognized Annual Income

○ Principle: Per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year as of the application date.

○ Exception: Per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the second preceding year as of the application date.

☞ This applies when the per capita GNI for the preceding year is not yet announced as of the application date.

h. Livelihood Maintenance Requirement Screening

○ For each type of permanent residence status, after first screening for negative impact on national finances based on the income sources recognized, the livelihood maintenance requirement will be screened by comparing the annual income with the per capita GNI of the preceding/second preceding year.

i. Screening for Negative Impact on National Finances

○ A negative impact on national finances is determined in the following cases:

• ☞ Non-payment of national taxes, local taxes, customs duties, etc.
• ☞ Non-payment of health insurance premiums, fines, etc.
• ☞ Employment in sectors not permitted by the applicant's residence status.
• ☞ Employment in sectors that violate good morals, or are related to gambling or entertainment services.
• ☞ In other cases deemed to have a negative impact on national finances by the head of the competent immigration office, in addition to the above.

○ Screening of income subjects that have negatively impacted national finances:

• ☞ Applicant: Screening will result in failure to meet livelihood maintenance capacity.
• ☞ Family Members: Such individuals will be excluded from income subjects.

j. Exempt or Mitigated Cases

3. Basic Competency Requirement

○ A person who meets any of the following is recognized as meeting the basic competency requirement:

• a. A person who has completed Level 5 of the Social Integration Program.
• b. A person who has scored 60 points or more (out of 100) in the comprehensive assessment for permanent residence or naturalization.
• c. A person who has obtained a score of Level 4 or higher in the Korean Language Proficiency Test (however, this applies only to applications submitted by March 31, 2019).

※ However, applicants for F-5-1 who are pursuing a residency program at a domestic hospital with an E-5 Professional Worker residence status must have obtained a Korean Language Proficiency Test score of Level 5 or higher (the income requirement is mitigated to be 1 or more times the per capita GNI of the preceding year).

○ The following persons are eligible for exemption or mitigation of the basic competency requirement:

• ① Persons who meet any of the following as of the application date:
• ㉮ Minors under the Civil Act.
• ㉯ Persons aged 60 or over.
• ② Persons who meet any of the following:
• ㉮ A person who has graduated from schools referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act) or a foreign school accredited by the Ministry of Education*.
• ㉯ A person who has passed the high school equivalency examination for graduation from schools referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act).
• ㉰ A person aged 15 or over at the time of application who is currently enrolled in a school referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act) or a foreign school accredited by the Ministry of Education* for two or more years.
• \* This refers to public and private educational institutions, foreign schools, alternative schools, and other institutions specializing in education for minors.
• ③ A person who meets the requirements for permanent residence status exemption.
• (Example) An applicant for General Permanent Residence (F-5-1) who meets the requirements for Advanced Technology Doctorate Permanent Residence (F-5-9).
• ④ A person who has completed a regular doctoral course at a domestic graduate school and obtained a doctorate degree.

□ Common Documents (Specific documents for each permanent residence type are detailed later)

□ The following documents are required for all permanent residence applications (mandatory submission):

• ① Application form (Form No. 34), passport, Alien Registration Card.
• ※ If the Alien Registration Card is not available, one passport photo taken within the last 6 months and the permanent residence issuance fee are required.
• ② Documents proving place of stay
• ※ Lease agreement or Certificate of Complete Confirmation of Registration, etc., valid as of the application date.
• ③ Overseas Criminal Record Certificate
• ※ Submission may be waived if the applicant is exempt from this requirement.
• ④ Letter of Guarantee (※ Exempt for those exempted from submission)
• ※ The following applicants for permanent residence status are exempt from submitting a Letter of Guarantee:
• ① Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor (F-5-17)
• ② Spouse or Minor Child of Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor (F-5-19)
• ③ General Public Project Investor (F-5-21)
• ④ Retirement Immigrant Investor of Public Projects (F-5-23)
• ⑤ Spouse or Unmarried Child of Public Project Investor (F-5-22)
• ⑥ Exempt for those applying for residence statuses other than ① to ③, under the following circumstances:
• ④ When applying as an obligated party under Article 89 of the Enforcement Decree, corresponding to any of the clauses in Article 79 of the Act (Obligation to Apply for Permission, etc.).
• ⑤ Overseas Koreans who entered before the establishment of the Republic of Korea (August 15, 1948) and their direct lineal descendants who are currently residing with F-2 Residence status.
• ⑥ Japanese spouses of Korean nationals and their direct lineal descendants who are currently residing with F-2 Residence status.
• ⑦ Documents related to livelihood maintenance (income) requirements (to be submitted by income subject).
• ① Official documents related to payment of national taxes, local taxes, etc. (e.g., Tax Payment Certificate or Certificate of Non-Payment).
• ② "Income Certificate (issued by tax office)" stating total income and paid income tax, or other official tax-related documents.
• ※ Submit at least one of the following documents (※ If the document has an expiration date, it must be valid as of the application date).
• ① Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Test (Comprehensive Assessment for Permanent Residence) Pass Certificate.
• ② Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Test (Comprehensive Assessment for Naturalization) Pass Certificate.
• ③ Social Integration Program Completion Certificate (Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Program).
• ④ Social Integration Program Completion Certificate (Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Program).
• ⑤ Korean Language Proficiency Test Score Certificate (Levels 4-6) (however, only applicable to permanent residence applications submitted by March 31, 2019).
• ⑨ Basic Information for Permanent Residence (F-5) Applicants (※ To be completed and submitted by the applicant).

Basic Information for Permanent Residence (F-5) Applicants (Information provided by the applicant)

○ This document is for the purpose of expediting the review of permanent residence applications. Missing or unsubmitted answers may cause delays in the review process.

○ Please answer all questions as thoroughly as possible and submit all relevant supporting documents together.

1) Please provide your personal information

• ○ English Name:
• ○ Nationality:
• ○ Address in Country of Nationality:
• ○ Alien Registration Number:
• ○ Contact Number:

2) Please mark (√) the permanent residence status you are applying for

3) Please mark (V) the submission status of the documents you have submitted.

※ Do not mark in the "Official Review" column.

a) Common Submission Documents

※ Documents ①, ⑥, ⑦, ⑧ are not to be marked by applicants experiencing delays in processing.

b) Permanent Residence Type-Specific Submission Documents

a) Applicant's Education History

※ Please list all schools attended abroad. Only the year is required for the period of attendance. For universities, include the major and degree obtained in the remarks section.

b) Information on Applicant's Family (within 4th degree of kinship)

① If of foreign nationality, write the name in English. If of Korean nationality, write in Korean.

※ For relatives other than father, mother, spouse, and children, list only those residing in Korea at the time of application.

※ Family members currently residing in Korea at the time of application for permanent residence must have an appropriate residence status based on the date of permanent residence approval.

c) Information on Foreign Countries of Residence for Six Months or More Continuously (excluding Korea and the applicant's country of nationality)

d) Information on Applicant's Occupation for the Last 3 Years

• ○ Period of Employment: From Month Year to Month Year
• ○ Company Name:
• ○ Company Location and Contact Number:
• ○ Years of Service at Company:
• ○ Average Monthly Salary:
• ○ Company Description:
• ○ Job Duties (describe in detail):

e) Have you ever illegally entered or exited the country, or have your nationality, name, or date of birth changed? If yes, please provide specific details.

f) Have you been punished for violating Korean laws in the last five years? If yes, please state the issuing authority and the punishment received.

g) Are there any ongoing investigations, inquiries, or trials for violating Korean laws? If yes, please state the law violated and the authority (court) conducting the proceedings.

h) Reason for applying for permanent residency

I acknowledge that if there are any falsehoods in the information provided above, the change of permanent residence status may be denied, and if falsehoods are discovered after the permanent residence status has been granted, the permanent residence status may be revoked in accordance with Article 89-2 of the 「Immigration Act」.

Year Month Day

Applicant's Name (Signature)

Submitted by the applicant for expedited review and to prevent unnecessary on-site investigations.

If false information is discovered after obtaining permanent residency, the permanent residency may be revoked according to Article 89-2 (1) Clause 2 of the Immigration Act.

□ Criteria for Submission of Overseas Criminal Record Certificate

1. Countries Subject to Submission

• ○ Country of Nationality
• ○ Third Countries (provided that the applicant has resided continuously for one year or more within the last five years from the application date)

2. Exemptions from Submission (if meeting any of the following)

• ○ Applicants under 14 years of age at the time of application.
• ○ Persons born in Korea or who entered Korea before the age of 14 and have not resided continuously abroad for six months or more after reaching the age of 14.
• ○ Persons who submitted an overseas criminal record certificate when applying for a visa and are applying for a change of permanent residence status (F-5) within three months from the visa issuance date.
• ○ Persons who are unable to obtain a criminal record certificate due to the issuing country's standards or who do not meet the residency requirements for issuance (however, the applicant must provide evidence of inability to obtain the certificate).
• ※ (Example) Canadians under 18 years of age, etc.
• ○ Persons for whom obtaining a criminal record certificate is impossible due to natural disasters, wars, etc., or those recognized as having similar circumstances by the head of the overseas immigration office or branch office (however, the applicant must provide evidence of inability to obtain the certificate).
• ○ Applicants for High-Investment Investor (F-5-5), Advanced Technology Doctorate (F-5-9), General Doctorate (F-5-15), Person with Specific Field Abilities (F-5-11), or Person with Special Merit (F-5-12).
• ○ Persons who have previously submitted a home country criminal record certificate and are residing in Korea, and have not resided continuously abroad for six months or more.
• ○ Persons who have continuously resided legally in Korea for 10 years or more as of the application date.

※ An overseas criminal record certificate issued by the applicant's country of nationality must be submitted. If the applicant has resided in a third country for one year or more within the last five years from the application date, an overseas criminal record certificate from that third country must also be submitted.

※ For those who have resided abroad for six months or more, a criminal record certificate issued by the government of the country of residence is required. However, if it is difficult to obtain due to age restrictions or residency requirements, the submission may be waived if the applicant provides evidence of such difficulty.

□ Requirements for Overseas Criminal Record Certificate

1. Issuing Authority and Content

○ An official document issued by an authorized institution located in the applicant's country of nationality (or a third country) that includes all criminal records within the country of nationality (or third country).

• ① Criminal record certificates issued by consulates in Korea that are not located in the country of nationality (excluding the Russian Embassy and Turkmenistan Embassy in Korea) will not be recognized.
• ② If there is no separate institution or system to verify criminal records within the country of residence, certificates from competent authorities in the jurisdiction of residence may be accepted as alternatives.
• (China) "All documents equivalent to criminal record certificates (including those issued by police stations)" will be accepted.
• (USA) FBI headquarters' criminal record certificate (obtained directly by the applicant or through an FBI-authorized channeler) is generally required. However, state-issued criminal record certificates that include nationwide criminal records will also be accepted.

2. Authentication Procedures

○ Authentication procedures differ depending on whether the country is a signatory to the Apostille Convention.

• ① Apostille Convention Member Countries: Apostille confirmation from the country of issuance of the criminal record certificate.
• ※ In cases where an apostille certificate cannot be obtained due to unavoidable circumstances by a national of an Apostille Convention member country, consular authentication by a Korean diplomatic mission in the country that issued the criminal record certificate may be exceptionally permitted.
• ② Non-Apostille Convention Member Countries: Consular authentication by a Korean diplomatic mission in the country that issued the criminal record certificate.
• ※ However, for China, the criminal record certificate must be notarized by a Chinese notary office and authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, followed by consular authentication by a Korean diplomatic mission in the country that issued the criminal record certificate.

○ Consular authentication by a Korean diplomatic mission is required. If there is no Korean diplomatic mission in the country, the consular authentication may be waived.

3. Validity Period

○ Must be issued within six months prior to the permanent residence application date.

4. Submission Period and Other Matters

○ Submit the original criminal record certificate and a notarized translated copy* at the time of application for permanent residence.

* Include the translator's personal information and contact details, and attach a copy of their ID.

□ Annual Income Requirements by Permanent Residence Type

• • OVERSEAS KOREAN BORN IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA (F-5-8)
• ○ If the number of cohabiting family members (spouse, parents, children) is 2 or less, the annual income must be 70% or more of the previous year's per capita GNI. If 3 or more, it must be 1 or more times the previous year's per capita GNI.
• ○ However, if the annual income requirement is not met, it is considered met if the applicant's cohabiting family members (spouse, children, applicant's parents) own real estate worth 60 million KRW or more as of the permanent residence application date for the past 1 year (※ No distinction based on the number of cohabiting family members).
• • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DOCTORATE (F-5-9) • GENERAL DOCTORATE (F-5-15)
• • HOLDER OF BACHELOR'S, MASTER'S, AND QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATES (F-5-10)
• • APPLICANTS FOR GENERAL PERMANENT RESIDENCE (F-5-1) WHO ARE PURSUING RESIDENCY PROGRAMS AT DOMESTIC HOSPITALS WITH E-5 PROFESSIONAL WORKER STATUS
• • SPOUSE OR MINOR CHILD OF A GENERAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (F-5-4)
• • SPOUSE OR MINOR CHILD OF A POINTS-BASED PERMANENT RESIDENT (F-5-18)
• • GENERAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (F-5-1)
• • PENSION BENEFICIARY (F-5-13)
• • POINTS-BASED PERMANENT RESIDENT (F-5-16)
• • R&D PERSONNEL OF FOREIGN-INVESTED ENTERPRISES (F-5-26)
• ○ 2 or more times the per capita GNI of the preceding year.
• However, for applicants for General Permanent Residence (F-5-1) who are pursuing a residency program at a domestic hospital with an E-5 Professional Worker residence status, it is 1 or more times the per capita GNI of the preceding year.
• ○ 13 times the per capita GNI of the preceding year for Professional Workers (E-5).
• • ANNUAL INCOME REVIEW IS WAIVED FOR THE FOLLOWING PERMANENT RESIDENCE STATUSES:
• • HIGH-INVESTMENT INVESTOR (F-5-5)
• • PERSON WITH SPECIFIC FIELD ABILITIES (F-5-11)
• • GENERAL PUBLIC PROJECT INVESTOR (F-5-21)
• • TECHNOLOGICAL STARTUP INVESTOR (F-5-24)
• • CHILD OF PERMANENT RESIDENT BORN IN KOREA (F-5-20)
• • SPOUSE OR UNMARRIED CHILD OF PUBLIC PROJECT INVESTOR (F-5-19)
• • PERSONS WHO HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THEIR DEGREE PROGRAMS THROUGH STUDY-LINKED PROGRAMS (D-2-7) OR AS GKS (National Institute for International Education) SCHOLARS (for permanent residence statuses conditional on obtaining a degree).

□ Detailed Requirements by Permanent Residence Type

1. General Permanent Resident [F-5-1]

a. Target (Article 31 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has reached the age of majority under the Civil Act of the Republic of Korea and has resided in the Republic of Korea for five or more years with a residence status from D-7 Resident to E-7 Specific Activities as listed in Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」, or with the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1-2, item 24.

b. Requirements

• ○ Must have resided continuously in the Republic of Korea for five or more years with the residence statuses listed in paragraph 'a. Target' above, as of the application date.
• The periods of stay with the above-mentioned residence statuses can be combined if the applicant has continuously resided with only these statuses without complete departure.
• Must maintain the economic activities permitted by the current residence status (activities permitted under exceptions to residence status are recognized).
• ○ If the applicant has a D-8 Business Investment residence status, the average annual sales must be 1 billion KRW or more for the two years preceding the application year (i.e., the year prior and the second year prior to the application year)*.
• Example) For individuals applying for permanent residence on January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018, performance from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, will be calculated for both.
• ○ If the applicant has a D-9 General Trade residence status, the average annual export amount must be 500 million KRW or more, or the average annual sales must be 1 billion KRW or more for the two years preceding the application date.
• However, exceptions apply to those involved in export equipment installation and operation maintenance, or shipbuilding equipment manufacturing supervision.
• ○ If the applicant has a D-10 Job Seeking residence status, they must possess a bachelor's degree or higher and have an employment contract that meets the criteria for E-1 to E-7 statuses (excluding E-6 performers).
• ○ If the applicant has an E-7 Specific Activities residence status, they must possess a bachelor's degree or higher.
• ○ Livelihood maintenance capacity (meet one of the following requirements):
• Income: 2 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.
• However, for applicants for General Permanent Residence (F-5-1) who are pursuing a residency program at a domestic hospital with an E-5 Professional Worker residence status, it is 1 or more times the per capita GNI of the preceding year.
• Assets: 1.5 or more times the average net assets of the preceding year.

c. Required Documents

• ○ For D-7: Certificate of employment or dispatch order.
• ○ For D-8, D-9: Documents proving sales or export amounts, etc.
• ○ For D-10, E-7: Relevant degree certificates, employment contracts, etc.

2. Marriage Immigrant (F-5-2), Minor Child of a National (F-5-3)

a) A foreign spouse who is maintaining a normal marital relationship (legal marriage) with a Korean spouse and has resided in Korea continuously for two or more years with the F-6-1 Marriage Immigrant status.

1) Eligibility Requirements

• a) Maintain a normal marital relationship with the Korean spouse.
• b) Resided continuously in Korea for two or more years with the F-6 Marriage Immigrant status.
• c) Good conduct requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 1 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must have good conduct, such as obeying the laws of the Republic of Korea.
• d) Livelihood maintenance requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 2 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must have the ability to maintain livelihood through income or assets of oneself or family members with whom one shares a livelihood.
• · (Income Standard) The combined income of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood must be 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year, as announced by the Bank of Korea.
• · (Household Asset Standard) The total assets of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood must be at or above the median level (i.e., the median of net assets as per the Household Finance and Welfare Survey).
• ※ "Income Standard" and "Household Asset Standard" cannot be combined for application.
• (Family members with whom one shares a livelihood) Spouse, lineal ascendants and descendants, and spouse's lineal ascendants and descendants who have continuously cohabited with the applicant for one year or more.
• e) Basic competency requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must possess basic competencies necessary for living in Korea, such as Korean language proficiency and understanding of Korean society and culture.
• · Completion of the Social Integration Program as stipulated in Article 39, Paragraph 1 of the 「Immigration Act」.
• · A score of 60 points or more (out of 100) in the comprehensive assessment as stipulated in Article 48, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」.

The livelihood maintenance requirement and basic competency requirement may be mitigated or waived in accordance with the Ministry of Justice's Public Notice (Criteria for Mitigation and Exemption of Permanent Residence Requirements).

2) Required Documents

• ☞ Common Documents
• · Passport, Alien Registration Card, Integrated Application Form, standard passport photo, fee, proof of residence documents.
• ☞ Documents proving family relationship
• · Marriage Certificate (or former Marriage Certificate) with Korean spouse.
• · Basic Certificate, Family Relationship Certificate of children born from the relationship with the Korean (former) spouse.
• · Documents proving child-rearing.
• · Photos (3 or more) taken during family events (weddings, admissions, graduations, etc.), holidays, travel, and daily life with the child.
• · Proof of expenses incurred for child-rearing (allowance, tuition fees, medical expenses, etc.).
• ☞ Documents for Good Conduct Requirement
• · Overseas Criminal Record Certificate (issued within 6 months from the application date).
• ☞ Documents for Livelihood Maintenance Requirement
• · (Income exceeding per capita GNI) Income Certificate (if necessary, Employment Income Withholding Receipt, salary deposit details, other income proof documents) of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood.
• · (Household Assets at or above median level) Asset proof documents (bank transaction details, savings/time deposit certificates, lease agreements, real estate registry confirmation, etc.) and credit information inquiry for the applicant and all family members with whom they share a livelihood.
• ☞ Documents for Basic Competency Requirement
• · (Social Integration Program Completion) "Social Integration Program Completion Certificate" (Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Program or Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Program).
• · (Comprehensive Assessment Score of 60 or more) "Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KIPRAT) or "Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KINAT).
• ☞ Other documents deemed necessary for the review by the Commissioner, etc. (e.g., documentation for mitigation/exemption cases).

c. A person who resided in Korea with the status of Marriage Immigrant (F-6) for two or more years, but whose marital relationship with the Korean spouse has been terminated due to the death, disappearance, or other reasons not attributable to the applicant, and who maintained a normal marital relationship until the termination.

1) Eligibility Requirements

• a) Termination of marital relationship due to the fault of the Korean (former) spouse.
• ☞ It must be confirmed that the applicant and the Korean spouse maintained a normal marital relationship until the termination of marriage, and
• ☞ The primary responsibility for the termination of marriage lies with the Korean (former) spouse.
• b) Resided continuously in Korea for two or more years with the F-6 Marriage Immigrant status.
• c) Good conduct requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 1 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must have good conduct, such as obeying the laws of the Republic of Korea.
• d) Livelihood maintenance requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 2 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must have the ability to maintain livelihood through income or assets of oneself or family members with whom one shares a livelihood.
• · (Income Standard) The combined income of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood must be 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year, as announced by the Bank of Korea.
• · (Household Asset Standard) The total assets of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood must be at or above the median level (i.e., the median of net assets as per the Household Finance and Welfare Survey).
• ※ "Income Standard" and "Household Asset Standard" cannot be combined for application.
• (Family members with whom one shares a livelihood) Applicant's lineal ascendants and descendants, and Korean spouse's lineal ascendants and descendants (if family ties are maintained after the spouse's death) who have continuously cohabited with the applicant for one year or more.
• e) Basic competency requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must possess basic competencies necessary for living in Korea, such as Korean language proficiency and understanding of Korean society and culture.
• · Completion of the Social Integration Program as stipulated in Article 39, Paragraph 1 of the 「Immigration Act」.
• · A score of 60 points or more (out of 100) in the comprehensive assessment as stipulated in Article 48, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」.

The livelihood maintenance requirement and basic competency requirement may be mitigated or waived in accordance with the Ministry of Justice's Public Notice (Criteria for Mitigation and Exemption of Permanent Residence Requirements).

2) Required Documents

• ● Common Documents
• · Passport, Alien Registration Card, Integrated Application Form, standard passport photo, fee, proof of residence documents.
• ● Documents proving family relationship
• · Marriage Certificate (or former Marriage Certificate) with Korean (former) spouse.
• · If there are children born from the relationship with the Korean (former) spouse, Basic Certificate, Family Relationship Certificate of the child.
• ● Documents proving the reason for termination of marriage with the Korean (former) spouse.
• · Documents proving marital life, such as photos taken together during marriage, message exchanges, and statements from acquaintances.
• · Documents proving the Korean (former) spouse's fault, such as divorce judgment, medical certificates, investigation and criminal record data, and statements from acquaintances.
• ● Documents for Good Conduct Requirement
• · Overseas Criminal Record Certificate (issued within 6 months from the application date).
• ● Documents for Livelihood Maintenance Requirement
• · (Income exceeding per capita GNI) Income Certificate (if necessary, Employment Income Withholding Receipt, salary deposit details, other income proof documents) of the applicant or family members with whom they share a livelihood.
• · (Household Assets at or above median level) Asset proof documents (bank transaction details, savings/time deposit certificates, lease agreements, real estate registry confirmation, etc.) and credit information inquiry for the applicant and all family members with whom they share a livelihood.
• ● Documents for Basic Competency Requirement
• · (Social Integration Program Completion) "Social Integration Program Completion Certificate" (Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Program or Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Program).
• · (Comprehensive Assessment Score of 60 or more) "Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KIPRAT) or "Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KINAT).
• ● Other documents deemed necessary for the review by the Commissioner, etc. (e.g., documentation for mitigation/exemption cases).

d. Minor Foreign Child of a National, who has resided in Korea with the status of F-2 for two or more years.

1) Eligibility Requirements

• a) Minor foreign child of a Korean national.
• b) Resided continuously in Korea for two or more years with the F-2 Residence status.
• c) Good conduct requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 1 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must have good conduct, such as obeying the laws of the Republic of Korea.
• d) Livelihood maintenance requirement: Not applicable.
• e) Basic competency requirement:
• ☞ Article 10-3, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act」: Must possess basic competencies necessary for living in Korea, such as Korean language proficiency and understanding of Korean society and culture.
• · Completion of the Social Integration Program as stipulated in Article 39, Paragraph 1 of the 「Immigration Act」.
• · A score of 60 points or more (out of 100) in the comprehensive assessment as stipulated in Article 48, Paragraph 2, Clause 3 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」.
• · (Under compulsory education age) Basic competency requirement is waived.
• · (Compulsory education age to under 15 years old) If enrolled in a school referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act), the basic competency requirement may be waived.
• · (15 years old and over) The basic competency requirement may be waived if the applicant meets any of the following criteria ① to ③:
• ① A person who has graduated from schools referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act).
• ② A person who has passed the high school equivalency examination for graduation from schools referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act).
• ③ A person who is currently enrolled in a school referred to in each clause of Article 2 of the 「Elementary and Secondary Education Act」 (excluding foreign schools under Article 60-2 of the same Act) or a foreign school accredited by the Ministry of Education* for two or more years.

2) Required Documents

• ● Common Documents
• · Passport, Alien Registration Card, Integrated Application Form, standard passport photo, fee, proof of residence documents.
• ● Documents proving family relationship
• · Basic Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Family Relationship Certificate, Resident Registration Certificate copy of the Korean father or mother.
• · Birth certificate of the minor child (applicant), family relationship documents (photos taken together, child-rearing proof documents may be requested if necessary).
• ● Documents for Good Conduct Requirement (excluding minors who are not criminally responsible)
• · Overseas Criminal Record Certificate (issued within 6 months from the application date).
• ● Documents for Basic Competency Requirement
• · (Social Integration Program Completion) "Social Integration Program Completion Certificate" (Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Program or Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Program).
• · (Comprehensive Assessment Score of 60 or more) "Korea Immigration Permanent Residence Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KIPRAT) or "Korea Immigration and Naturalization Aptitude Test Pass Certificate" (KINAT).
• · (For those who completed regular education) Graduation certificate, equivalency exam pass certificate, enrollment certificate, etc.

3. Spouse or Minor Child of a General Permanent Resident [F-5-4]

1) Spouse of a person holding Permanent Residence status (F-5)

• ○ Must hold the F-2 Residence status as the spouse of a person holding F-5 Permanent Residence status, and have continuously maintained the legal marital relationship and family ties for two or more years* while residing in Korea.
• * This means the applicant's spouse must have obtained F-5 Permanent Residence status at least two years prior to the application.
• ○ Must have resided with a residence status from D-7 Resident to E-7 Specific Activities, F-2 Residence, F-4 Overseas Korean, or H-2 Visiting Employment as listed in Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」 from two years prior to the application date until the decision date.
• ○ Must not have departed permanently from Korea, and periods of stay with the above residence statuses can be combined if continuous.
• ○ Must maintain the marital relationship until the decision date (※ Divorce or common-law marriage is not permitted).

2) Minor Child of a person holding Permanent Residence status (F-5)

• ○ Must be a minor child of a person holding F-5 Permanent Residence status, and have continuously resided in Korea with the F-2 Residence status for two or more years* while maintaining family ties.
• \* This means the applicant's parent must have obtained F-5 Permanent Residence status at least two years prior to the application.
• ○ Must be a minor under the Civil Act as of the application date.
• ○ The parent holding permanent residence status must have legal custody and parental rights until the decision date.
• \* For adopted children, the period is calculated from the date of legal family relationship establishment through adoption.
• ○ Must not possess dual nationality with Korean nationality.

3) Livelihood maintenance requirements (meet one of the following requirements)

• ○ Income: 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.
• ○ Assets: Average net assets of the preceding year or more.

c. Required Documents

○ Documents proving family relationship, birth certificate, etc.

4. High-Investment Investor [F-5-5]

a. Target (Article 33 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A foreign investor who has invested USD 500,000 or more in accordance with the 「Foreign Investment Promotion Act」 and employs five or more nationals.

※ Employees or workers of the investor, other than the investor themselves, are not eligible.

b. Requirements (Livelihood maintenance requirement waived)

1) Individual Investor

• ○ Must maintain an investment of USD 500,000 or more in accordance with the 「Foreign Investment Promotion Act」 as of the application date.
• ○ Must be a party to an employment contract that continuously employs five or more nationals in full-time regular positions for six months or more as of the application date.

2) Joint Investors

• ○ Must maintain an investment of USD 500,000 or more in accordance with the 「Foreign Investment Promotion Act」 as of the application date.
• ※ If the applicant's own investment amount is less than USD 500,000 among the joint investment funds, they are not eligible for the High-Investment Investor (F-5-5) permanent residence status.
• ○ Must be a party to an employment contract that continuously employs five or more nationals in full-time regular positions for six months or more as of the application date.
• The five or more employed nationals must be distinct individuals for each investor.
• If a national employed by one investor is also counted towards the employment quota of another permanent residence applicant within six months prior to the current application, that national will be excluded from the employment count.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Certificate of Registration of Foreign Invested Enterprise, Copy of Corporate Registry, Copy of Business Registration Certificate.
• ○ Documents proving the continuous employment of five or more Korean nationals in regular positions for six months or more.
• · Employment list from the 4 major insurance providers, Income certificates of employed nationals.
• · Employment contracts, Certificates of regular employment, etc.

5. Overseas Korean Born in Korea [F-5-8]

a. Target (Article 36 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who previously held the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1, Item 27 of the former 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」 (referring to the one before its partial amendment by Presidential Decree No. 17579, promulgated and enforced on April 18, 2002), including those who have held a previous residence status corresponding thereto, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea.

b. Requirements

• ○ Must be an Overseas Korean born in Korea and have previously held the F-2 Residence status as listed in Attached Table 1, Item 27 of the former 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」 (including previous residence statuses) and meet one of the following conditions:
• If currently residing continuously in Korea with a residence status from D-7 Resident to E-7 Specific Activities, or F-2 Residence, or F-4 Overseas Korean, or H-2 Visiting Employment as listed in Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」, without complete departure.
• If previously held F-2 Residence status, departed permanently, and re-entered, and has been continuously residing in Korea for two or more years* with a residence status from D-7 Resident to E-7 Specific Activities, F-2 Residence, or F-4 Overseas Korean, or H-2 Visiting Employment as listed in Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」.
• * Periods of stay can be combined.
• If previously held F-2 Residence status, departed permanently, and re-entered, and has been continuously residing in Korea with a combined stay of four or more years with statuses such as F-1 Visiting and Accompanying, F-3 Accompanying, and the statuses listed in item 2) below.
• * Periods of stay can be combined.
• ○ Livelihood maintenance requirement (meet one of the following requirements):
• Income and Assets: If the number of cohabiting family members (spouse, parents, children) is 2 or less, the annual income must be 70% or more of the previous year's per capita GNI. If 3 or more, it must be 1 or more times the previous year's per capita GNI.
• However, if the annual income requirement is not met, it is considered met if the applicant's cohabiting family members (spouse, children, applicant's parents) own real estate worth 60 million KRW or more as of the permanent residence application date for the past 1 year (regardless of the number of cohabiting family members).

c. Required Documents

○ Family Register issued by the Overseas Korean Association, birth certificate, etc.

6. Advanced Technology Doctorate [F-5-9] and General Doctorate [F-5-15]

a. Target (Article 37 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

• ○ A person who has obtained a doctorate degree in a specified field abroad and is employed by a domestic company or the like at the time of application for permanent residence status (F-5), as recognized by the Minister of Justice.
• ○ A person who has completed a regular course at a domestic graduate school and obtained a doctorate degree, as recognized by the Minister of Justice.

b. Requirements

1) Holder of a Doctorate Degree in Advanced Technology Fields Abroad, Employed by a Domestic Company [F-5-9]

• ○ Must have obtained a doctorate degree in an advanced technology field* abroad prior to the application, and must have been continuously employed in a full-time regular position related to the obtained degree by a domestic company or the like for one year or more as of the application date.
• * Fields are designated by Article 5 of the 「Industrial Development Act」 and include IT, Technology Management, Nano, Digital Electronics, Bio, Transportation and Machinery, New Materials, Environment and Energy, etc.
• ○ The continuity of employment is recognized if the total accumulated days of employment interruption due to job changes within the period of employment do not exceed 30 days, and such periods are included in the employment duration.

2) Person Who Completed a Regular Course at a Domestic Graduate School and Obtained a Doctorate Degree [F-5-15]

• ○ Must have completed a regular doctoral course* at a domestic graduate school and obtained a doctorate degree prior to the application, and must have been continuously employed in a full-time regular position in a field unrelated to the obtained degree by a domestic company** for one year or more as of the application date, in a sector that does not violate good morals or other social order (including similar sectors).
• \* This refers to cases where a regular course was completed at a domestic graduate school, such as the D-2-4 Doctoral Program, etc. It does not apply to cases where a degree was obtained without completing the prescribed course at a domestic graduate school.
• \*\* The field of employment is not restricted as long as the obtained doctoral degree major is relevant.
• ※ The continuity of employment is recognized if the total accumulated days of employment interruption due to job changes within one year do not exceed 30 days, and such periods are included in the employment duration.

3) Livelihood maintenance requirement (meet one of the following requirements)

• ○ Income: 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.
• ○ Assets: Average net assets of the preceding year or more.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Copy of doctorate degree certificate.
• ※ Academic transcripts, etc., may also be requested.
• ○ Copy of Business Registration Certificate of the employer, Copy of Corporate Registry.
• ○ Documents proving regular employment, such as enrollment certificates in the 4 major insurance providers and employment contracts, etc.

7. Holder of Bachelor's/Master's Degree Certificate and Qualification Certificate [F-5-10]

a. Target (Article 38 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

• ○ A person who holds a bachelor's degree or higher in a field designated by the Minister of Justice, has resided in Korea for three or more years, and is employed by a domestic company at the time of application for permanent residence status (F-5), receiving a salary equivalent to or exceeding an amount designated by the Minister of Justice.
• ○ A person who holds a technical qualification certificate designated by the Minister of Justice, has resided in Korea for three or more years, and is employed by a domestic company at the time of application for permanent residence status (F-5), receiving a salary equivalent to or exceeding an amount designated by the Minister of Justice.

b. Requirements

○ Must meet all of the following requirements: 1), 2), 3), and 4).

1) Hold one or more of the following degree certificates or technical qualification certificates:

• ② Bachelor's degree or higher in advanced technology fields*.
• * Fields are designated by Article 5 of the 「Industrial Development Act」 and include IT, Technology Management, Nano, Digital Electronics, Bio, Transportation and Machinery, New Materials, Environment and Energy, etc.
• ③ Bachelor's degree or higher in science and engineering fields (including non-advanced technology fields) obtained after completing a regular course at a domestic university (graduate school).
• ④ Master's degree or higher (including non-science/engineering or non-advanced technology fields) obtained after completing a regular course at a domestic university (graduate school).
• ⑤ Professional Engineer qualification certificate issued by the Korea Human Resources Development Service of Korea or equivalent certificates*.
• * Certificates recognized by the Korean government through Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs).

2) Have resided continuously in Korea for three or more years prior to the application date, according to the following criteria:

• ○ (For holders of overseas degrees or qualification certificates) Must have been continuously employed in a full-time regular position in a domestic company related to the obtained degree or qualification for three or more years* as of the application date, and must be continuously residing in Korea.
• \* The continuity of employment is recognized if the total accumulated days of employment interruption due to job changes within the three years do not exceed 90 days, and such periods are included in the employment duration.
• ○ (For holders of domestic degrees) Must have been continuously residing in Korea for three or more years, and must have been employed for three or more years* in sectors not violating good morals or other social order (including similar sectors), without employment in prohibited sectors.
• \* The continuity of employment is recognized if the total accumulated days of employment interruption due to job changes within the three years do not exceed 90 days, and such periods are included in the employment duration.

3) Must be continuously employed in a full-time regular position by a domestic company for one year or more* as of the application date.

• \* The continuity of employment is recognized if the total accumulated days of employment interruption due to job changes within one year do not exceed 30 days, and such periods are included in the employment duration.
• ○ For applicants meeting requirement 1) ② or ③, employment must be in a field related to the obtained degree or qualification certificate.
• ○ For applicants meeting requirement 1) ① or ②, the employment field must not be in a sector that violates good morals or other social order, including entertainment services (and similar sectors).

4) Livelihood maintenance requirement:

○ Income: 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Copy of degree certificate or qualification certificate.
• ※ Academic transcripts, etc., may also be requested.
• ○ Copy of Business Registration Certificate of the employer, Copy of Corporate Registry.
• ○ Documents proving regular employment, such as enrollment certificates in the 4 major insurance providers and employment contracts, etc.

8. Person with Specific Field Abilities [F-5-11]

a. Target (Article 39 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person with outstanding abilities in specific fields such as science, management, education, culture, arts, and sports.

□ Mandatory Items: Total 245 points

※ If multiple single items apply, all will be summed. If points overlap within a single item, only the highest score will be recognized.

□ Optional Items: Total 110 points

※ If multiple optional items apply, all will be summed. If points overlap within an optional item, only the highest score will be recognized (bonus point items will all be summed).

<Details of Optional Items>

Annual Income: Based on the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year announced by the Bank of Korea, only the applicant's domestic income (as per "Income Certificate" issued by the tax office) is considered.

Recognition is granted, with a maximum total score of 10 points for annual income across different years.

Recognition is granted for volunteer hours confirmed through the 1365 Volunteer Portal (www.1365.go.kr) or the Social Volunteer Service Certification Management System (www.vms.or.kr).

‒ Study Abroad in Korea: Studying for four or more years at a domestic university and obtaining a bachelor's degree or higher.

Recognition is granted for studies undertaken at schools eligible for the Study Abroad (D-2) status.

+ Schools referred to in clauses 1 to 4 of Article 2 of the 「Higher Education Act」, universities established under special laws (including evening graduate schools), and advanced vocational programs at Korea Polytechnics.

‒ Study-Work Linkage Program: Successful graduation from the relevant degree program at the time of selection.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Award certificates or employment certificates in the relevant field.
• ○ Documents proving publication of papers in SCI (Science Citation Index) or equivalent, or research achievements.
• ○ Documents certifying recognition in fields such as science and management.
• ○ Other documents proving eligibility for the points-based system.

9. Person with Special Merit [F-5-12]

a. Target (Article 10 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person recognized by the Minister of Justice as having made special contributions to the Republic of Korea.

b. Requirements (Livelihood maintenance requirement waived)

• ○ Persons who have contributed to Korea's independence or national development and received medals or decorations (hereinafter referred to as "National Meritorious Persons"), their spouses, and children.
• ○ Spouses and children of persons who have obtained special naturalization as direct lineal descendants of National Meritorious Persons.
• ○ Direct lineal descendants (up to great-grandchildren) of National Meritorious Persons who have completed a regular course at a domestic university and obtained a bachelor's degree or higher, or have one or more years of employment, investment, or trade experience in Korea.

c. Required Documents

○ Statement of reasons, medal or decoration certificates (for awardees), family relationship documents, and other supporting documents, etc.

10. Pension Beneficiary [F-5-13]

a. Target (Article 11 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person aged 60 or over who receives a pension of an amount designated by the Minister of Justice from abroad.

b. Requirements

○ The annual pension amount received from abroad must be two or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year*, as announced by the Bank of Korea, for the one year prior to the application date.

* If the per capita GNI for the preceding year is not announced, the per capita GNI for the second preceding year will be used.

c. Required Documents

○ Copy of pension certificate and pension deposit passbook.

11. Points-Based Permanent Resident [F-5-16] and Spouse and Minor Child [F-5-18]

a. Target

1) Points-Based Permanent Resident [F-5-16] (Article 13 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has resided in the Republic of Korea for three or more years with the F-2 Residence status as listed in item 'cha' of Article 24, Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea.

2) Spouse or Minor Child of a Points-Based Permanent Resident [F-5-18] (Article 32 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has resided in Korea for two or more years with the F-2 Residence status as the spouse or minor child of a person holding F-5 Permanent Residence status, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice.

b. Requirements

1) Points-Based Permanent Resident [F-5-16]

• ○ Must have continuously resided in Korea with the Points-Based F-2-7 Residence status from three years prior to the permanent residence application date until the application date.
• ○ Must not have engaged in the operation or employment of entertainment services (including similar sectors) that violate good morals or other social order from three years prior to the application date until the decision date.
• ○ Livelihood maintenance capacity (meet one of the following requirements):
• Income: 2 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.
• Assets: 1.5 or more times the average net assets of the preceding year.

2) Spouse of a Points-Based Permanent Resident (F-5-16) [F-5-18]

• ○ Must hold the F-2-7 Residence status as the spouse of a person who changed to F-5-16 Points-Based Permanent Residence status, and have continuously maintained the marital relationship for two or more years* while residing in Korea.
• \* This means the applicant's spouse must have obtained the F-5-16 Points-Based Permanent Residence status at least two years prior to the application date.
• ○ Must maintain the marital relationship until the decision date (※ Divorce or common-law marriage is not permitted).

3) Minor Child of a Points-Based Permanent Resident (F-5-16) [F-5-18]

• ○ Must be a minor child of a person who changed to F-5-16 Points-Based Permanent Residence status, holding the F-2-7 Residence status, and must be continuously residing in Korea for two or more years* while maintaining family ties.
• \* This means the parent holding Points-Based Permanent Residence status (F-5-16) must have obtained the Points-Based Permanent Residence status at least two years prior to the application date.
• ○ Must be a minor under the Civil Act as of the application date.
• ○ The Points-Based Permanent Resident (F-5-16) must have legal custody and parental rights until the final decision date for permanent residence.

4) Livelihood maintenance requirement for F-5-18 applicants (meet one of the following requirements)

• ○ Income: 1 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year.
• ○ Assets: Average net assets of the preceding year or more.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Copy of Business Registration Certificate of the employer, Copy of Employment Contract, Certificate of Employment.
• ○ Documents proving family relationship (for spouse or minor child of Points-Based Permanent Resident).

12. Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor [F-5-17] and Spouse and Unmarried Child [F-5-19]

a. Target (Article 14 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has held the F-2 Residence status as listed in item 'cha' of Article 24, Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」, and has continuously maintained the investment for five or more years, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea, along with their spouse and children (only children meeting the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice).

b. Requirements (Livelihood maintenance requirement waived)

1) Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor [F-5-17]

• ○ Must have continuously maintained the investment for a total of five or more years with the Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor F-2-8 Residence status as of the application date (※ Emphasis on 'maintaining investment' rather than 'residence' for five or more years).
• \* If the investor departs permanently (based on the expiration of the re-entry permit period) and re-obtains the same F-2 Residence status, the period of investment maintenance before permanent departure and the period of investment maintenance after re-obtaining the residence status will be combined and recognized.
• ○ If the investment requirements were temporarily lost, the period of investment maintenance will be calculated by combining the prior holding period with the period after regaining the investment requirements.
• ○ Must maintain the investment status for five years or more without losing investment requirements such as encumbrance or mortgage of the invested facilities.
• ○ If the total period of investment in Tourist/Leisure Facility Investment Immigration programs and Public Project Investment Immigration programs (converted investments) is five years or more, it will also be recognized (provided that the Public Project Investment period is two years or more).

2) Spouse of a Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor (F-5-17) [F-5-19]

• ○ Must hold the F-2-8 Residence status as the spouse of a person holding F-5-17 Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor Permanent Residence status, and have continuously maintained the marital relationship for five or more years* while residing in Korea.
• \* This means the applicant's spouse must have obtained the F-5-17 Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor Permanent Residence status at least five years prior to the application date.
• ○ Must hold the F-5-17 Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor Permanent Residence status as of the application date.
• ※ For simultaneous applications, if the applicant's spouse fails to obtain F-5-17 Permanent Residence status, the applicant's change to permanent residence status will also be automatically denied.
• ○ Must have continuously maintained the marital relationship with the applicant for two or more years prior to the application date until the decision date (※ Single or common-law marriage is not permitted).

3) Unmarried Child of a Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor (F-5-17) [F-5-19]

• ○ Must hold the F-2-81 Residence status as an unmarried child of a person holding F-5-17 Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor Permanent Residence status, and must be continuously residing in Korea as of the application date.
• \* This means the applicant's parent holding F-5-17 Tourist/Leisure Facility Investor Permanent Residence status must be continuously maintaining the investment requirements for F-2-8 Residence status.
• ○ Must remain unmarried until the final decision date for permanent residence.
• ※ For simultaneous applications, if the applicant's parent fails to obtain F-5-17 Permanent Residence status, the applicant's change to permanent residence status will also be automatically denied.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Documents proving continuous investment (issued within 5 days prior to the permanent residence application date), such as real estate registry.
• ○ Documents proving family relationship (for spouse or unmarried child).
• ○ Documents proving unmarried status (for unmarried child only).

13. Child of Permanent Resident Born in Korea [F-5-20]

a. Eligibility Requirements

1) Applicant (Minor Child) Requirements

• ○ Must have been born in the Republic of Korea.
• ○ Must hold Permanent Residence status (F-5) as of the application date for the applicant's father or mother.
• ○ Compliance with domestic laws regarding birth registration, etc.

b. Required Documents

• ○ Proof of Permanent Residence status (F-5) of the parent(s) (e.g., Alien Registration Card).
• ○ Birth certificate, Marriage Certificate, Family Relationship Certificate of the father or mother.
• ○ If paternity or maternity is difficult to confirm, submit a DNA test result.
• \* The applicant's father or mother must write (confirm) that the statements above are true, stating that the applicant does not hold Korean nationality and that any falsehoods may result in disadvantages such as revocation of permanent residence status (no specific format is provided).
• ○ DNA test result.
• ○ If the period of legal family relationship between the parents is less than one year prior to the applicant's date of birth, and paternity needs to be confirmed, the relevant documents should be submitted.

14. Public Project Investor [F-5-21/23] and Spouse and Unmarried Child [F-5-22]

a. Target (Article 14.8 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has held the F-2 Residence status as listed in item 'cha' of Article 24, Attached Table 1-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Decree」, and has continuously maintained the investment for five or more years, and is recognized by the Minister of Justice as needing to continue residing in the Republic of Korea, along with their spouse and children (only children meeting the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice).

b. Requirements (Livelihood maintenance requirement waived)

1) General Public Project Investor [F-5-21]

• ○ Must have continuously maintained the investment for a total of five or more years with the Public Project Investor F-2 Residence status as of the application date (※ Emphasis on 'maintaining investment' rather than 'residence' for five or more years).
• \* If the investor departs permanently (Alien Registration cancelled) and re-obtains the same F-2 Residence status (Alien Registration), the period of investment maintenance before permanent departure and the period of investment maintenance after re-obtaining the residence status will be combined and recognized.
• ○ If the total period of investment in Tourist/Leisure Facility Investment Immigration programs and Public Project Investment Immigration programs (converted investments) is five or more years, it will also be recognized (provided that the Public Project Investment period is two years or more).
• ○ Must maintain the investment status for five years* without recovering any part of the invested funds.
• \* Regardless of the investment fund's operational results and whether the principal is lost, the investment is considered maintained as long as the investor does not recover the investment amount.

2) Retirement Immigrant Investor of Public Projects [F-5-23]

• ○ Must have continuously maintained the investment for a total of five or more years with the Retirement Immigrant Investor F-2 Residence status as of the application date (※ Emphasis on 'maintaining investment' rather than 'residence' for five or more years).
• \* If the investor departs permanently (Alien Registration cancelled) and re-obtains the same F-2 Residence status (Alien Registration), the period of investment maintenance before permanent departure and the period of investment maintenance after re-obtaining the residence status will be combined and recognized.
• ○ In addition to the investment funds, the applicant or their spouse must possess domestic assets of 300 million KRW or more.
• ※ Only domestic assets are recognized; foreign assets are excluded.

3) Spouse or Unmarried Child of Public Project (Retirement Immigrant) Investor (F-5-21, F-5-23) [F-5-22]

• ○ As of the application date, the applicant's spouse, father, or mother must hold the F-5-21, F-5-23 Public Project Investor Permanent Residence status, and must be continuously maintaining the investment status meeting the F-2-cha Residence status requirements.
• ○ However, if the applicant's spouse, father, or mother is applying for permanent residence simultaneously with the F-2 Public Project Investor residence status, the application can be made even if the applicant's spouse, father, or mother does not meet the residence status requirements (for obtaining permanent residence status).
• ○ For simultaneous applications, if the applicant's spouse, father, or mother fails to obtain F-5-17 Permanent Residence status, the applicant's change to permanent residence status will also be automatically denied.
• ○ Must have continuously resided in Korea with the F-2 Residence status as the spouse or unmarried child of a Public Project Investor (F-5-21, F-5-23) for five or more years as of the application date.
• ○ Documents proving unmarried status (for unmarried child only).

c. Required Documents

• ○ Documents proving continuous investment (issued within 5 days prior to the permanent residence application date).
• ○ For retirement immigrants, additional documents proving domestic assets of 300 million KRW or more (in addition to investment funds).
• ○ Documents proving family relationship (for spouse or unmarried child).

15. Technological Startup Investor [F-5-24]

a. Target (Article 15 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

b. Requirements (Must meet all of the following requirements, and livelihood maintenance requirement is waived)

• ○ Must have resided continuously in Korea for three or more years with the D-8-4 Technological Startup status* prior to the application date (excluding previous periods of stay).
• \* This refers to founders of corporations who possess intellectual property rights or equivalent technological capabilities, and have obtained an associate's degree or higher domestically, or a bachelor's degree or higher abroad, or have been recommended by the head of the relevant central administrative agency [hereinafter referred to as 'Technological Startup (D-8-4)'].
• ○ Must have attracted investment funds of 300 million KRW or more from domestic or foreign investors, or secured equivalent capital.
• ※ Cases where the sum of attracted investment funds and the company's capital amounts to 300 million KRW or more are also recognized.
• ○ Must continuously employ two or more nationals in full-time regular positions for six months or more as of the application date.

c. Required Documents

• ○ Copy of Business Registration Certificate, Copy of Corporate Registry, Copy of Business Registration Certificate.
• ○ Documents proving attraction of investment funds of 300 million KRW or more, or securing equivalent capital (financial statements, investment fund inflow records, etc.).
• ○ Documents proving continuous employment of two or more nationals for six months or more.
• · Employment list from the 4 major insurance providers, Income certificates of employed nationals.
• · Employment contracts, Certificates of regular employment, etc.
• ○ Investment Fund Deposit Confirmation (Issued by Korea Development Bank).
• ○ Documents proving foreign currency remittance (e.g., Foreign Exchange Purchase Certificate).
• ○ Investment Maintenance Pledge.

16. Conditional High-Investment Investor [F-5-25]

a. Target (Article 16 of Attached Table 1-3 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act)

○ A person who has invested an amount designated and publicly announced by the Minister of Justice or more, with the condition of maintaining the investment for five or more years, and meets the requirements designated by the Minister of Justice.

b. Requirements (Livelihood maintenance requirement waived)

• ○ Must have deposited 3 billion KRW or more in the Public Project Investment Immigration Fund (principal guaranteed, interest-free type) at the Korea Development Bank, as designated by the Minister of Justice, prior to the application date.
• ○ Must pledge to maintain the investment status for five years.
• ※ Withdrawal of all or part of the deposited amount after obtaining permanent residence status will result in revocation of permanent residence status.

c. Required Documents

○ Copy of Designation Certificate for Research and Development Facilities (Official document from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy), Work Order or Certificate of Manufacture, Income Certificate, etc.

7. Extension of Stay Permission

Not applicable

8. Re-entry Permit

Re-entry permit is waived for those who wish to re-enter within two years from the date of departure.

For those wishing to exceed two years from the date of departure, an extension of the re-entry permit is required at a diplomatic mission before the expiration date (permit period within 3 months).

· Scope of permit by the head of the diplomatic mission: Within 3 months from the expiration date of two years from the date of departure.

9. Alien Registration

Application form (Form No. 34), one standard passport photo, fee.

10. Additional Original Information

Calculation of Continuous Stay in Korea

○ The number of days of continuous stay in Korea will be summed up. Periods of extension for departure and grace periods for departure deadlines will be included in the departure period.

However, if the total duration of temporary departure abroad does not exceed 90 days per instance, and the total departure days do not exceed 180 days annually, it will be recognized as continuous stay in Korea, and the departure period will be included in the period of stay.

Loss of Permanent Residence Status

○ If the person fails to re-enter Korea within the period of exemption from re-entry permit (within two years from the date of departure) or within the re-entry permit period.

Revocation of Permanent Residence Status

■ Permanent residence status will be revoked in the following cases:

• If permanent residence status was obtained by fraud or other dishonest means.
• If the person has been convicted and sentenced to two or more years of imprisonment or detention for any of the offenses stipulated in ① 「Criminal Act」, ② 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Violence」, ③ 「Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes, etc.」, ④ 「Act on the Protection of Children and Youth against Sex Offenses, etc.」, ⑤ 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Crimes」, ⑥ 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Economic Crimes」, ⑦ 「Act on the Control of Narcotics, etc.」, ⑧ 「Special Measures Act on the Control of Health Crimes」.
• If the person has been sentenced to imprisonment or detention for violating Korean laws within the last five years, and the total duration of the confirmed sentences is three years or more.
• If a person who received conditional permanent residence status (F-5-25) withdraws all or part of the funds deposited in the Public Project Investment Immigration Fund (principal guaranteed, interest-free type) within five years from the date of obtaining permanent residence status.
• If the person falls under any of the following categories as grounds for deportation:
• a) Committing offenses under Chapter 1, Section 1 (Crimes Against National Security) or Chapter 2 (Crimes Against the State) of Part 2 of the 「Criminal Act」.
• b) Committing offenses under Chapter 2, Chapter 24 (Crimes of Homicide), Chapter 32 (Rape and Indecent Acts), or Chapter 38 (Theft and Robbery) of Part 2 of the 「Criminal Act」, and being sentenced to five or more years of imprisonment or detention, and subsequently released.
• c) Committing offenses under the 「Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes, etc.」, 「Act on the Control of Narcotics, etc.」, 「National Security Act」, or 「Special Measures Act on the Control of Health Crimes」, and being sentenced to five or more years of imprisonment or detention, and subsequently released.
• d) Committing offenses under Article 5-2, 5-4, 5-5, 5-9, or 11 of the 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Crimes」, and being sentenced to five or more years of imprisonment or detention, and subsequently released.
• e) Committing offenses under Article 4 of the 「Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Violence」, and being sentenced to five or more years of imprisonment or detention, and subsequently released.
• f) Violating Article 12-3, Paragraph 1 or 2 of the 「Immigration Act」, or instigating or abetting such violations.
• Engaging in acts that are contrary to the national interests of the Republic of Korea in terms of national security, diplomatic relations, and the national economy.

Common Requirements

• ■ Applicants for permanent residence status must not hold dual nationality with Korean nationality.
• ■ Applicants for permanent residence status must not have engaged in or operated entertainment services (including similar sectors) that violate good morals or other social order during the period and with the residence statuses required for each specific type of permanent residence, from the specified period up to the decision date.
• However, activities permitted under exceptions to residence status are recognized (income obtained through illegal employment is not recognized).

Notice on Criteria for Relief for Loss of Permanent Residence Status (F-5) due to COVID-19

□ Eligible Applicants for Relief

Persons who lost their permanent residence status due to the expiration of their re-entry permit (waiver) because of COVID-19, and whose period of permanent residence status loss was from '20.1.1. to '21.12.27.

□ Relief Procedure

1. Visa Issuance at Overseas Diplomatic Missions

(Basic Principle) Short-term general (C3-1, 090) visas will be issued only to those who lost their permanent residence status due to the expiration of their re-entry permit (waiver) caused by the COVID-19 situation.

(Screening Criteria) Approval will be decided according to Article 9-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Rules」 (Criteria for Visa Issuance).

(Required Documents) Copy of passport, visa application form, copy of ID card, statement of reasons for loss of permanent residence.

(Visa Issuance) Short-term general (C3-1, 090) visa will be issued if screening criteria are met.

2. Change of Residence Status after Entry into Korea

○ (Screening Criteria) Approval of F-5 Permanent Residence status will be decided according to Article 9-2 of the 「Immigration Act Enforcement Rules」.

The Good Conduct Requirement will be screened. The Livelihood Maintenance and Basic Competency Requirements will be waived.

○ (Required Documents) Application form, copy of passport, standard passport photo, fee for change of status and permanent residence card issuance, overseas criminal record certificate, tuberculosis check confirmation (for high-risk countries for tuberculosis only), proof of residence, etc.

□ Relief Procedure Completion

Persons who lost their permanent residence status due to COVID-19 must enter Korea by December 31, 2022, and apply for a change of permanent residence status at the competent immigration office.

※ Even if a C-3-1 visa was issued by an overseas diplomatic mission before December 31, 2022, the applicant is not eligible if they did not apply for a change of permanent residence status before December 31, 2022.

※ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: What are the basic income requirements for applying for F-5 permanent residency?

A1: Generally, the income of the applicant or their family members with whom they share a livelihood is combined for screening, and the criteria vary depending on the type of status. For example, General Permanent Residents (F-5-1) must have an income of 2 or more times the per capita Gross National Income (GNI) of the preceding year, Marriage Immigrants (F-5-2) must have an income of 1 or more times the GNI, and Advanced Technology Doctorates (F-5-9) must have an income of 1 or more times the GNI. In cases of insufficient income, it may be substituted by possessing assets above a certain standard.