[For Foreigners Staying in Korea]

G-1 Visa Detailed Guide

I. What is a G-1 Visa?

The G-1 (Other) visa is a visa status granted to foreigners with special humanitarian reasons who do not fall under the existing visa categories from ①Diplomatic (A-1) to ⑰Visiting Employment (H-2), and Permanent Residency (F-5).

II. Basic Application Requirements

1) Scope of Activities

• All activities not included in existing visa statuses (A-1F-6, H-1H-2) and Permanent Residency (F-5)

• Humanitarian or other reasons individually recognized by the Minister of Justice

2) Required Photo Specifications

• Color passport-sized photo, 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm, taken within the last 6 months, 1 copy

III. Duration of Stay, Permission, Change, and Extension

All permits below are processed by visiting the ‘Immigration Service’ after making a reservation via the Hi-Korea online system.

a. Permission for Activity Other Than Registered Status (Employment Permit)

🔎 *Humanitarian stay permit holders may work in the construction industry (basic safety and health education is mandatory)*

b. Change or Addition of Workplace

• Employment permits require prior authorization → If the employer changes, a new application is mandatory.

• Fee: Same as for regular long-term foreign residents.

c. Granting of Visa Status (Children Born in Korea)

Required Documents: Birth Certificate, Proof of Parent-Child Relationship, Proof of Residence, etc.

d. Permission to Change Visa Status

e. Permission to Extend Period of Stay

• Industrial Accident (G-1-1): 6 months (up to 1 year for severe cases)

• Illness/Accident (G-1-2): Extended in 6-month increments

• Submit proof of treatment/residence funds and letter of guarantee (if applicable).

f. Re-entry Permit

g. Alien Registration

• Mandatory registration within 90 days of entry.

• Basic documents: Application form, Passport, 1 photo (3.5 cm × 4.5 cm), Fee, Proof of residence.

IV. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Can G-1 visa holders work in Korea?
A. Yes. However, you must obtain a Permission for Activity Other Than Registered Status and avoid restricted employment sectors. Professionals require separate qualifications.

Q2. What are the typical industries where employment is restricted?
A. Gambling/Entertainment businesses, Businesses against Public Morals (e.g., kiss rooms, adult PC bangs), Private Tutoring, and fields designated as restricted by the Ministry of Justice. Asylum applicants are also restricted from working in the construction industry.

Q3. What is the procedure for changing workplaces?
A. Previous permit → Apply for a new permit in advance (applies to both employer changes and additions).

Q4. What is the maximum period of stay and extension?
A. Maximum of 1 year per permit. For industrial accidents and illness/accident treatment, extensions can be applied for in 6-month or 1-year increments.

Q5. Is it possible to be accompanied by family members?
A. For certain types, such as industrial accident treatment, illness/accident treatment, humanitarian stay permits, and recognized refugees, spouses and immediate family members can accompany you (proof of relationship is mandatory).

Q6. What is the re-entry procedure after visiting abroad?
A. If you re-enter within 1 year of departure after alien registration, the permit is exempted. Re-entry permits are required for those subject to entry restrictions or nationals of restricted countries.

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