Korea Visa Types Explained (C, D, E, F, H)

Tourism, business meetings, family visit, conferences. The default short-stay visa for travelers from non-visa-waiver countries.

Foreign journalists, photographers, and reporters covering events in Korea for less than 90 days.

Degree-seeking students at accredited Korean universities — bachelor's, master's, PhD. Requires admission letter from a recognized institution.

Korean language students at university language institutes (not pursuing a degree) and general non-academic trainees.

For graduates of Korean universities (or top global universities) to stay in Korea while searching for a job. Points-based eligibility.

Foreign professors and researchers at Korean universities and equivalent institutions.

Teaching a foreign language (most commonly English) at hagwons, public schools, or universities. Citizens of 7 designated English-speaking countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, Ireland, South Africa) can teach English. Bachelor's degree + criminal record check required.

Skilled professionals in 87 designated occupations — IT, engineering, design, finance, R&D, and more. Sponsored by a Korean employer.

Long-term residency through marriage to a Korean (F-2-1), the points-based skilled-worker track (F-2-7), or other special qualifications. Allows free employment in most fields.

Ethnic Koreans with foreign citizenship (born to Korean parents or descendants up to 3 generations). Liberal work and residence rights, except for restricted occupations.

Permanent residency for long-term residents (typically 5+ years in Korea on F-series visas) meeting income, language, and integration requirements.

Foreign spouses of Korean citizens. After marriage, application includes income proof for the Korean sponsor, KIIP integration test or Korean language proof, and household documents. Path to F-5 after 2 years.

Remote workers employed outside Korea who want to stay in Korea while working. Requires: employed at a foreign company for 1+ year, annual income ≥ 2× Korea's gross national income per capita (~USD 65,000), and health insurance. Family can join.

Young adults (18-30, or 18-25 in some bilateral agreements) from countries with a working holiday agreement with Korea. Allows tourism + part-time work for up to a year.

Ethnic Koreans from specific countries (China, CIS countries) for working visits up to 3 years. Allows employment in designated industries.