⚠️ H-2 Visa Integrated into F-4 Status(Feb 12, 2026. ~)
Previously, ethnic Koreans from China and the six former Soviet Union states had to prove specific work experience to obtain F-4 status; otherwise, they were granted H-2 status. Now, regardless of nationality, any individual who can prove their status as an overseas Korean will be eligible for the F-4 visa.
- Early Settlement Program: To prevent crimes and ensure safety during the initial stages of settlement, applicants must complete a 5-hour Early Settlement Program.
- Criminal Record Restrictions: Those with a history of serious crimes (murder, rape, drugs, voice phishing, etc.) will be ineligible for the F-4 status.
- Current H-2 Holders: You may stay in Korea until your current visa expires. However, you can apply to switch to the F-4 status even before your expiration date.
For detailed information about the changes, please refer to the HiKorea notice and the KOWORK blog.
Visa Description
- Upper limit on the length of stay that can be granted at a time: generally no more than three years
Visa Candidate
- A person who holds the nationality of the Republic of Korea by birth (including compatriots who moved abroad before the establishment of the government of the Republic of Korea) and acquired a foreign nationality.
- A person who acquired a foreign nationality as an immediate relative of the above-mentioned person.
- Men who have left the Republic of Korea or lost their nationality for the first time since '18.5.1. are restricted from granting F-4 status until December 31 of the year in which they turn 40, unless they have completed military service or have been exempted.
Visa Requirements
- Proof of Korean language proficiency
- Overseas criminal record certificate
- Documents proving that a person who falls under the following categories is a foreign national, such as a certificate of family relationship records, discharge certificate, family register, residence card, or birth certificate.
