Nationality & Visa Guide for Foreign-Born Children in Korea

As more international families settle in South Korea, many parents face questions about the citizenship, residency, and visa status of their children born overseas. Whether one or both parents are Korean nationals or foreigners residing in Korea, understanding the legal process for your child’s nationality and visa can save you stress down the line.

This guide will walk you through the nationality rules, visa options, and essential steps for registering a foreign-born child in South Korea. From F-2 dependent visas to dual nationality laws, we’ve compiled everything you need to know.

📌 Who Is This Guide For?

This blog is helpful for:

Korean citizens married to a foreign spouse with children born abroad

Foreigners living in Korea with permanent residency or marriage visas

International couples residing in Korea raising children

Parents who want their child to attend school, access healthcare, or live in Korea long-term

Understanding South Korea’s Nationality Law

South Korea follows jus sanguinis (right of blood) rather than jus soli (right of soil). This means a child’s citizenship is based on the nationality of the parents, not the country where they are born.

✅ When Does a Child Qualify for Korean Nationality?

A child is automatically a South Korean national if:

At least one parent is a Korean citizen at the time of birth

The parent registers the child’s birth with the Korean embassy or local district office

If neither parent is a Korean citizen, the child does not automatically receive Korean nationality, even if born in Korea.

Dual Nationality for Children

Children born abroad to a Korean and non-Korean parent may hold dual citizenship. However, Korean law requires:

Notification of intent to retain dual citizenship before age 18

Choosing one nationality by age 22 (with certain exemptions)

Failure to notify or renounce may result in the child being classified only as a Korean or foreign national based on residence and documentation.

📄 How to Register a Foreign-Born Child in Korea

Whether your child holds Korean nationality or not, registration is essential for visa and residency status.

Step 1: Report Birth to Embassy

If born outside Korea, report your child’s birth to the Korean consulate or embassy and obtain a birth certificate and basic nationality certificate if applicable.

Step 2: Apostille or Legalize Foreign Documents

Documents like foreign birth certificates must be apostilled or notarized for Korean immigration.

Step 3: Register with Korean District Office

Submit birth documents to the local gu office (구청) to register the child in Korea’s family registry (if eligible for nationality).

Visa Options for Foreign-Born Children in Korea

If your child does not hold Korean nationality, you will need to apply for a visa. The type depends on the visa status of the parents:

🔹 F-2-71 Dependent Visa

For children of foreign parents with F-series visas (like F-2, F-6):

Valid as long as the parent’s visa remains valid

Renewable alongside the parent's visa

🔹 F-1-15 Temporary Stay Visa

Used for dependent children who will stay short-term or attend international school.

🔹 D-2 Student Visa

Applicable for older children enrolling in university or language programs in Korea.

🔹 F-3 Dependent Visa

Available if a parent holds a working visa (E-series). Children may live and attend school but cannot work.

Documents Required for Child Visa Application

Child’s passport and birth certificate

Parent’s Alien Registration Card (ARC)

Proof of relationship (translated if needed)

Family registration documents

Housing and financial proof from the parent

Passport photos

Always check with HiKorea or Immigration Office for the most recent document requirements.

📚 Education & Healthcare for Foreign-Born Children

Once registered, foreign-born children may:

Enroll in Korean public or private schools

Access Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) if covered by their parent

Use government support programs for multicultural families

Knowing your child’s legal residency status ensures smoother access to these services.

🛑 Common Issues to Avoid

Failing to register birth in time (can delay visa issuance)

Using expired documents without apostille

Applying under the wrong visa category

Not understanding nationality retention rules for dual citizens

💡 Bonus Tip: When in Doubt, Visit Immigration

Every family’s situation is unique. It is recommended visiting your local Immigration Office or using the HiKorea website for a consultation. Language assistance is often available.

Navigating the nationality and visa process for foreign-born children in Korea can be overwhelming, but with the right information, it’s entirely manageable. Whether you’re applying for dependent visas, registering for dual citizenship, or planning long-term residency, early action and accurate documentation are key.

Stay informed, act early, and don’t hesitate to consult Korean immigration professionals if needed. Your child’s successful life in Korea begins with a solid legal foundation.

🔍 Please note that immigration policies and procedures may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's strongly recommended to consult an immigration expert or contact relevant Korean government offices such as the Ministry of Justice Korea Immigration Service.