Marriage Visa (F-6) in Korea: How to Apply & Eligibility

The F-6 Marriage Visa enables foreign spouses of Korean citizens to reside in South Korea. With this visa, foreign spouses can live, work, and fully integrate into Korean society. This guide covers eligibility requirements, necessary documents, application procedures, and essential information about maintaining the visa.


What is the F-6 Marriage Visa?

The F-6 visa is a long-term residency visa for foreigners married to Korean citizens. It offers a path to permanent residency (F-5 visa) and potential Korean citizenship. Holders can work without requiring additional permits.


Benefits of the F-6 Visa

✔ Legal residency in South Korea with minimal restrictions

✔ Freedom to work and engage in economic activities

✔ Eligibility for F-5 Permanent Residency after meeting requirements

✔ Access to health insurance and social benefits

✔ Ability to sponsor dependent family members


Eligibility for the F-6 Visa

To qualify for an F-6 visa, you must meet these conditions:

✔ Be legally married to a Korean citizen (marriage recognized under Korean law)

✔ Show proof of stable income and financial support (for both spouses)

✔ Have a valid residence in Korea (rental agreement or property ownership)

✔ Show basic Korean language proficiency (recommended but not always mandatory)

✔ Have no criminal record that affects eligibility

✔ If previously divorced from a Korean spouse, prove financial independence and provide reasons for divorce


Required Documents for the F-6 Visa

Required documents vary by nationality and circumstances but typically include:

✔ F-6 Visa Application Form (available at Korean Immigration Office or online)

✔ Valid Passport & Alien Registration Card (if applicable)

✔ Korean Spouse's Family Register (Hojuje) & ID Copy

✔ Marriage Certificate (issued by Korean government)

✔ Proof of Income & Employment (tax statements, salary slips, bank balance)

✔ Housing Verification (rental agreement or property ownership documents)

✔ Criminal Background Check (from home country and Korea)

✔ Health Check Certificate (if required by immigration)

✔ Korean Language Proficiency Proof (TOPIK or KIIP completion certificate, if applicable)


Application Process for the F-6 Visa


Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare all documents, translate them into Korean if needed, and have them certified.


Step 2: Submit the Application

Submit your application at the nearest Korean Immigration Office or Korean Embassy/Consulate (if applying from abroad).


Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The F-6 visa application fee is approximately 130,000 KRW.


Step 4: Attend an Interview

Some applicants must attend an interview with an immigration officer. Both spouses must be present to discuss their marriage and living arrangements.


Step 5: Wait for Approval

✔ Processing Time: Approximately 3–6 months

✔ Track your application status on the HiKorea website


Step 6: Receive Your F-6 Visa

Upon approval, you'll receive your visa and can legally reside in Korea. If applying from abroad, enter Korea within the specified timeframe.


Maintaining the F-6 Visa

To renew and maintain the F-6 visa, you must:

✔ Maintain your marriage with your Korean spouse

✔ Keep stable financial status with proof of income

✔ Renew your visa before it expires (typically every 1–3 years)

✔ Report significant changes (divorce, address changes, etc.) to immigration


Common Questions About the F-6 Visa


1. What if I get divorced?

If divorced, your F-6 visa may be revoked. However, you can apply for a special stay permit if you can prove:

✔ The divorce resulted from abuse or other valid reasons

✔ You have children from the marriage and are raising them

✔ You can support yourself financially in Korea


2. Can I apply for Permanent Residency (F-5) with an F-6 Visa?

Yes, after 2 years of marriage and meeting financial/language requirements, you can apply for an F-5 visa for permanent residency.


3. Can I work with an F-6 visa?

Yes, F-6 visa holders can work freely without a separate work visa.


4. Can I travel outside Korea with an F-6 visa?

Yes, but remember to renew your Alien Registration Card (ARC) if needed before traveling.


5. What happens if my F-6 visa is rejected?

You can appeal by providing additional documents or reapply after addressing the rejection reasons.


The F-6 Marriage Visa offers foreign spouses a path to live and work in South Korea. Successfully obtain and maintain your visa by meeting eligibility criteria, preparing proper documentation, and following application procedures.

For more information, visit the official Korean Immigration Service website.




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