Visa Options for Expats in Korea: Which One is Right for You?
Moving to Korea as an expat involves securing the right visa, and with multiple visa options available, it can be challenging to determine which one best fits your situation. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or family reasons, there’s a visa tailored to your needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common visa types for expats in Korea, and how JournEASE can assist you in navigating the application and extension processes.
1. E-2 Visa: English Teachers
The E-2 visa is one of the most popular visa options for native English speakers who want to teach in Korea. This visa is available to citizens from countries where English is the official language, and it allows holders to teach at public schools, private academies (hagwons), and universities.
Key Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in any field.
A clean criminal background check.
A contract with a Korean educational institution.
2. D-2 Visa: Student Visa
The D-2 visa is designed for international students who wish to study at a Korean university. This visa is available to those pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs.
Key Requirements:
Acceptance into a Korean university or college.
Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
A valid passport.
3. F-3 Visa: Family Visa
For expats with family members in Korea, the F-3 visa allows dependents (spouses or children) of visa holders to stay in Korea. This is commonly used by families of expats on work visas or diplomats.
Key Requirements:
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate).
The primary visa holder must have a valid visa (e.g., E-2, E-7).
A valid passport for each dependent.
4. F-4 Visa: Korean Heritage
The F-4 visa is specifically for individuals of Korean descent who hold citizenship in another country. This visa allows ethnic Koreans (usually second or third generation) to live and work in Korea without many of the restrictions placed on other work visas.
Key Requirements:
Proof of Korean ancestry.
A valid passport.
Criminal background check (if applicable).
5. E-7 Visa: Professional Employment
The E-7 visa is a work visa for professionals in specialized fields such as engineering, IT, design, and more. This visa is ideal for expats with skills that are in high demand in Korea’s growing industries.
Key Requirements:
A job offer from a Korean company.
Relevant work experience or qualifications.
A valid passport.
6. D-8 Visa: Startup Visa
For entrepreneurs and business owners, the D-8 visa allows individuals to set up and operate a business in Korea. This visa is granted to those who invest in a Korean company or establish a new business within the country.
Key Requirements:
Investment capital for starting a business.
A valid business plan.
Proof of business establishment in Korea.
How JournEASE Can Assist with Visa Applications and Extensions
Navigating the visa application process in Korea can be complex, but JournEASE is here to make it easier. We offer:
Visa Application Assistance: We’ll help you gather all necessary documents, complete your application, and submit it to the appropriate immigration office.
Visa Extensions: If your stay in Korea is extended, JournEASE can assist with applying for visa extensions and ensuring your paperwork is in order.
Legal Support: We work with immigration experts to resolve any visa-related issues or questions you may have.
Ready to Start Your Expat Journey?
Let JournEASE take the stress out of the visa process, from selecting the right visa to managing renewals. Contact us today through our website or KakaoTalk for personalized visa support.
For more expat insights and immigration tips, visit our JournEASE blog.