South Korea•AsiaF-1 — Visiting/Joining Family Visa (F-1)
At a Glance
2–4 weeks
USD $110–$150
Varies by filing options
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Join family members in South Korea with legal residence for up to 2 years without work authorization; fees USD 40-90.
The F-1 Visiting/Joining Family visa provides a legal framework under South Korea's Immigration Act for family members of foreign residents to reside together for non-professional purposes. It serves spouses, minor children, and parents of established residents seeking legal residence without independent work rights.
Stay is up to 2 years and renewable. Fees start at USD 40 for single-entry visas and go up to USD 90 for multiple entries, depending on duration and type. Spouses cannot work independently, and visa holders are prohibited from commercial activities or employment. Processing takes 2–4 weeks.
This visa is ideal for family members of legal foreign residents in South Korea seeking to join their sponsor for long-term cohabitation without personal work authorization.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Proof of family relationship
Sponsor's residence status
Valid passport
Financial support evidence
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport and visa application form.
Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
Copy of the primary resident's ARC or visa documentation.
Identity guarantee from the primary resident.
Financial documents (bank statements, income certificates) if required.
Passport-sized photograph.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows family members to reside together in South Korea legally and long-term
- Renewable visa — can extend stay up to 2 years with sponsor's continued residence
- Flexible entry options: single or multiple-entry visas available for frequent travelers
- Reasonable visa fees ranging from USD 40–90 depending on entry type and duration
- Access to basic public services (healthcare, education) while residing with sponsor
- Dual intent permitted — can be held alongside immigrant intent without conflict
- Accessible path for dependents without independent work or residence credentials
Worth Knowing
- Spouse cannot work — employment requires switching to a specific work visa category
- Visa validity depends on sponsor's legal residence status; departure may affect F-1 status
- Strict authentication requirements for proof of family relationship (apostille/notarization)
- No pathway to permanent residency — cannot transition directly to PR status via this visa
Application Process
Gather proof of family relationship (apostilled/authenticated).
Submit visa application at a Korean embassy or consulate (or change status at a local immigration office if already in Korea).
Provide identity guarantee from the primary resident.
Undergo screening by immigration authorities.
Obtain Alien Registration Card (ARC) upon arrival/approval.
Related visas
More visas in South Korea
Family visas in other countries
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