| 📋 F-2 | 📋 F-4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa type | F-2 | F-4 |
| Category | residence | residence |
| Who it is for | Long-term Korea residents | Ethnic Koreans with foreign citizenship (gyopo) |
| Duration | 1–3 years (renewable) | 3 years (renewable) |
| Allows work | Yes | Yes |
| Processing time | 1–3 months | 1–2 weeks |
| Government fee | ₩100,000–₩300,000 | ~$80 USD / 약 ₩110,000 |
| Key requirement | Meet point-based system threshold (80+ points) or qualify under specific category | Proof of Korean ancestry (parent or grandparent was a Korean national) |
| Renewal | Renewable. Long-term F-2 holders may qualify for F-5 permanent residency. | Renewable every 3 years. No activity restrictions, no renewal limits. |
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between the F-2 and F-4 visa?
- The F-2 (F-2 Long-term Resident Visa) is for Long-term Korea residents, while the F-4 (F-4 Overseas Korean Visa) is for Ethnic Koreans with foreign citizenship (gyopo).
- Can I switch from the F-2 to the F-4 visa?
- Changes of status are decided case by case by Korean immigration (HiKorea). Confirm your eligibility, documents and timing at your local immigration office before your current status expires.
- Which visa lets me work in Korea, F-2 or F-4?
- The F-2 allows work. The F-4 allows work.
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