I am applying From

and Iโ€™m going to

Immigrate to South Korea

How you can immigrate to South Korea, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in South Korea.

Key Points for South Korea PR Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to South Korea?

Yes, Indians need visa to travel to South Korea.

South Korean visa application is made online or offline?

You can either fill out the form online or download and write on it, and then submit it in person at the Embassy of Korea or the Korean Visa Application Centre, or, if you have a sponsor, they can apply on your behalf through the South Korea Visa Portal.

Do I need to give biometrics?

Yes, biometrics are required for obtaining an South Korean visa.

Is there an interview required to obtain a visa?

Not everyone needs an interview for a visa; it depends on the applicant or the type of visa.

What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a PR visa?

You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.

What kind of visa will we acquire from South Korea?

It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport

Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)

Permanent Residence Application Fees in South Korea: Around 200,000 KRW (170 USD).

Step-by-step guide (VFS Global)

Let us walk you through the process

Identify visa type

  • First, figure out the right visa type for you and see if you qualify. Find out the required documents, how long it takes to apply, and the fees.
  • Follow the guidelines for your visa category. If your documents aren’t in English, get them translated before applying.

Begin your application

  • You can either download the visa application form from the official website of the Korean Embassy or Consulate or fill out the form electronically (online).
  • Fill out the form completely and accurately. Ensure that all information matches the supporting documents.

Book an appointment

  • You don’t need an appointment to apply at any of the Korea Visa Application Centers in India.

Pay your fees

  • After completing your application, you must pay the visa application fee. If you download the form to print and bring it to the Korea Visa Application Center, you’ll need to pay the visa fee and service charges at the center.

Visit a South Korea Visa Application Center

  • You need to personally submit your filled visa application form at the Visa Application Center.
  • Learn more about the process and what to expect during your visit to the Visa Application Center.

Track your application

  • After submitting your visa application, you’ll get an email when it’s back at the Visa Application Center. If you prefer, you can also receive updates via SMS. Check if this option is available at the center.
  • You can track your application online using the Reference Number and your last name from the receipt issued by the Korea Visa Application Center.

Collect your passport

  • After your visa decision, pick up your passport at the Visa Center or opt for courier return with a fee.
  • For in-person collection, bring your receipt and ID. If someone else collects, provide an authorization letter, your receipt, and their ID. Confirm options with the Visa Center during opening hours.
Step-by-step guide (BLS International)

Let us walk you through the process

Contact a Travel Agency:

  • Due to increased visa applications, the process is managed through authorized travel agencies.
  • Consult or approach a travel agent at your discretion. The Consulate is not liable for these services.

Prepare Required Documents:

  • Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your current address proof (Employee Certificate, Bonafide Certificate, Lease Agreement).

Visit the BLS International Visa Application Centre:

  • The visa application must be submitted in person by the applicants themselves.
  • The BLS centre’s Visa Hours are from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and no reservation is required.

Submit Your Application:

  • Visit the BLS International Visa Application Centre in the jurisdiction covering Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Union Territory of Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
  • Submit your completed visa application form along with all required documents.

Processing Time:

  • Standard processing time is 10 working days. Alternatively, you can opt for the Express service, which takes 3 working days but may have additional charges.

Pay Visa Fees:

  • Pay the applicable visa fees at the BLS centre as per their guidelines.

Await Processing:

  • The BLS centre will process your application within the chosen timeframe.
  • Note that visa issuance may be denied, delayed, or require additional documents as per the Consulate’s decision.

Collect Your Visa:

Toggle content goes here, click edit button to change this text.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

When applying for Permanent Residence visa (F-5 type) in Korea, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

Once you meet the residency requirements in Korea for the F-5 visa, you can begin the permanent residency application. The necessary documents vary based on your previous visa and the specific F-5 category, but generally, you’ll need to submit:

  1. Passport:
    • Ensure your passport is valid and has sufficient validity.
  2. Alien Registration Card (ARC):
    • Provide a copy of your Alien Registration Card.
  3. Filled-out Application Form:
    • Complete the application form for permanent residency.
  4. Proof of Income or Savings:
    • Employment contract
    • Pay slips
    • Bank statements
  5. Rental Contract:
    • Provide a copy of your rental contract or proof of residence.
  6. Proof of Clear Criminal Record:
    • Obtain a criminal record certificate from your home country and, if applicable, from Korea.
  7. KIIP Certificate (Level 5):
    • Provide a certificate from the Korean Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP) demonstrating completion of Level 5.
  8. Proof of Education:
    • Copies of educational certificates and transcripts.
  9. Proof of Marital Status:
    • Marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Family registry (if applicable).
  10. Proof of Capital:
    • Documents demonstrating financial stability or investments, if required.
  11. Additional Supporting Documents:
    • Any additional documents that may be required based on your specific situation.

Important note: Ensure that all documents are up-to-date, and translations into Korean may be required for documents in other languages. It’s advisable to check the official immigration website or contact the immigration office for the most accurate and current information regarding the required documents for permanent residency in Korea.

In Korea, there are several pathways to obtain permanent residency. Here are some common types of Permanent Residence options in Korea along with their details:

F-5 Permanent Resident Visa:

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for permanent residency.
  2. Proof of Continuous Residency: Documents demonstrating continuous residence in South Korea for at least five years under a long-term visa (F-2, F-4, F-5, F-6, etc.).
  3. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.
  4. Points-based System Documents: Supporting documents for points claimed (education certificates, language proficiency certificates, income proof, etc.).

F-2-7 (Investor) Visa:

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the investor visa.
  2. Investment Documents: Proof of investment in Korea. Financial statements and documents related to the investment.
  3. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.

F-2-99 (Highly Skilled Professional) Visa:

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the highly skilled professional visa.
  2. Points-based System Documents: Supporting documents for points claimed (education certificates, work experience certificates, salary statements, etc.).
  3. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.

F-5-1 (Korean Heritage) Visa:

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the Korean heritage visa.
  2. Proof of Korean Ancestry: Documents proving Korean ancestry, such as family registry, birth certificates, or other relevant documents.
  3. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.

F-6 (Spouse) Visa:

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the spouse visa.
  2. Proof of Marriage: Marriage certificate.
  3. Continuous Residency Documents: Evidence of continuous residency. such as utility bills, rental agreements, or any official documents showing joint financial responsibilities.
  4. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.

F-5-6 (Visa for Naturalized Citizens’ Dependents):

  1. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the visa for naturalized citizens’ dependents.
  2. Proof of Relationship: Documents establishing the relationship with the naturalized citizen (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates).
  3. Copy of Naturalized Citizen’s Documents: Copies of the documents proving the naturalized citizen’s status.
  4. Passport and Visa Copies: Copies of current and previous passports. Copies of relevant visas.

Note: Always remember to check the specific requirements with the immigration office or embassy as they may vary based on individual circumstances and are subject to change. Additionally, translations of documents may be required if they are not in Korean or English. It is recommended to consult with immigration authorities or seek professional advice to ensure a smooth application process.

VISA APPLICATION FORMS

Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.

Korean Visa Application Form

  • You need to fill out the application form completely and honestly, using a black or dark blue pen.
  • Make sure your writing is clear and easy to read.

Korean Electronic Visa Application Form

  • You can apply for a visa by filling out a form online and submitting it through the Visa Portal. After that, you should visit the Korean embassy or consulate in your country.
  • Make sure to fill out this form completely and correctly.
  • Use big letters for Korean and capital letters for English.
  • For questions where you can choose more than one answer, mark [โˆš] all that apply.
  • If you pick ‘Other,’ tell us more in the space provided.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:

The F-5 visa is South Korea’s permanent residence visa. To qualify for the F-5 permanent residence visa in South Korea, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements.

  1. Investing 600 million KRW or more in a Korean business and hiring five or more locals.
  2. Marrying a Korean citizen or an F-5 holder.
  3. Earning a degree in South Korea, living there for three years, and having sufficient income.
  4. Obtaining a doctorate in South Korea and working in high-tech fields.
  5. Running a business under a D-8-4 start-up visa for three years, making at least 300 million KRW, and hiring two Korean employees.
  6. Being recognized by the Ministry of Justice for exceptional talent in specific fields.
  7. Holding an F-2 visa for five years with sufficient income and understanding of Korean culture.
  8. Holding an F-4 Overseas Korean Visa for at least two years with sufficient income or property tax payments.

Before you can apply for permanent residence, you need to first obtain another long-term residency visa from the F-type category, such as F-2-7 or F-2-99. These are popular options for the transition to permanent status.

For Getting the F-2-7 Visa:

  • Holders of E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, E-5, E-6, E-7, D-2, D-5, D-6, D-7, D-8, D-9, and D-10 visas can apply for the F-2-7 visa after working in the country for one year. However, obtaining this visa involves meeting specific requirements assessed through a point-based system. To qualify, applicants need to accumulate 80 points out of a possible 120, based on various criteria, including:

To qualify for the F-2-7 visa, applicants are assessed based on a point system considering various factors:

  1. Age:
    • 30-35 years: 25 points (highest)
    • 51 years and over: 15 points (lowest)
  2. Income:
    • Earning over 100 million KRW (85,000 USD) annually: 10 points
    • Earning less than 20 million KRW (17,000 USD) annually: 1 point
  3. Education:
    • High school diploma: 15 points
    • PhD: 33-35 points (depending on the subject)
  4. Korean Language Proficiency:
    • Proficiency categorized into six levels by TOPIK
    • Highest level: 20 points
    • Lowest level: 10 points
  5. Social Integration Program (KIIP):
    • Points awarded based on completed levels of the Korean Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP)
    • Maximum points: 28
  6. Bonus Points:
    • Volunteering, study experiences in Korea, and professional experiences abroad
    • Additional 1-5 points

The F-2-7 visa is valid for up to three years. It’s important to note that every point matters, as applications falling one point short of the minimum requirement may be rejected. Additionally, participation in the Korean Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP) can provide a valuable avenue for earning extra points.

For Getting F-2-99 Visa:

If you don’t meet the requirements for the F-2-7 visa, you can check if you qualify for the F-2-99 visa. The F-2-99 visa is less strict in terms of criteria since there is no point-based evaluation system. The main requirement is the length of your stay in the country:

  • Holders of D-1, D-5, D-6, D-7, D-8, D-9, E-6-1, E-6-3, F-1, and F-3 visas need to stay continuously in Korea for seven or more years.
  • Holders of E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, E-5, and E-7 visas need to stay continuously in Korea for five or more years.

To maintain continuous stay, avoid leaving for more than one month. Also, meet these requirements:

  • Good character (no criminal record, follow local laws, sufficient income, etc).
  • Be an adult (over 18 years old).
  • Savings (property or money) over 30 million KRW (25,500 USD).
  • Previous year’s income higher than the country’s per capita income.
  • Complete level 2 KIIP.
  • Visa valid for 1โ€“3 years.

The process for applying for a Permanent Residence visa (Type -F) in Korea typically involves the following steps:

  1. Gather Documents:
  • Collect all necessary documents,ย including proof of residency,ย income,ย language proficiency,ย and financial stability.
  1. Schedule an Appointment:
  • Contact the Korean Immigration Service (KIS) to schedule an appointment for your permanent residency application. Verify the necessary procedures and requirements specific to your situation.
  1. Prepare Application Form:
  • Obtain the permanent residency application form from the KIS office or website. Fill out the form accurately and completely.
  1. Submit Application:
    • Attend the scheduled appointment and submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to the KIS office. Ensure that all documents are properly organized and meet the specified requirements.
  2. Interview and Test:
    • Prepare for a potential interview and/or language proficiency test. The immigration authorities may conduct an interview to assess your suitability for permanent residency.
  3. Application Fee:
    • Pay the required application fee. Check the current fee amount with the KIS office.
  4. Waiting Period:
    • After submitting your application, be prepared for a waiting period during which the KIS will review your documents and assess your eligibility for permanent residency. This process may take several months.
  5. Additional Requests:
    • Be responsive to any additional requests or inquiries from the KIS during the application review process. They may ask for clarification or additional documentation.
  6. Decision:
    • The KIS will make a decision regarding your permanent residency application. Once a decision is reached, you will be notified of the outcome. If approved, you will receive a permanent residency card (F-5 visa).
  7. Receive Permanent Residency Card:
    • Upon approval, the KIS will issue a permanent residency card, granting you the status of a permanent resident in Korea. This card allows you to reside in Korea without any time limit and engage in various activities, including work.
  8. Renewal and Compliance:
    • Ensure compliance with any conditions set by the KIS to maintain permanent residency. Periodically check for renewal requirements if applicable.

Note: Remember that immigration policies and procedures may change, so it’s advisable to consult with the KIS or seek advice from legal professionals for the most accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your specific circumstances

There are the various routes and visa categories available to obtain Permanent Residency in Korea:

  1. F-5 Permanent Resident Visa:
    • This visa is the general permanent resident visa in Korea, allowing foreign nationals to live and work in the country without any time restrictions. It is typically obtained after meeting specific residency requirements and can be applicable to various individuals, including those on work visas like the E-7 or F-2-7.
  2. F-2-7 (Investor) Visa:
    • The F-2-7 visa is for individuals engaged in investment activities in Korea. To qualify, individuals usually need to make a significant financial investment in the country, such as establishing a business or contributing to an existing one. This visa may lead to permanent residency.
  3. F-2-99 (Highly Skilled Professional) Visa:
    • The F-2-99 visa is designed for highly skilled professionals working in Korea. It is not as demanding in terms of criteria as there is no point-based system. The main requirement is a certain period of continuous stay in the country. It may lead to permanent residency.
  4. F-5-1 (Korean Heritage) Visa:
    • The F-5-1 visa is for foreign nationals of Korean descent who wish to live in Korea. It is a permanent resident visa that acknowledges and facilitates the connection between individuals of Korean heritage and the country.
  5. F-6 (Spouse) Visa:
    • The F-6 visa is for the spouses of Korean citizens. It allows foreign spouses to live and work in Korea with relatively fewer restrictions. This visa is typically granted to individuals married to Korean nationals.
  6. F-5-6 (Visa for Naturalized Citizens’ Dependents):
    • The F-5-6 visa is for the dependents of foreign nationals who have acquired Korean citizenship through naturalization. It allows the family members of naturalized citizens to live in Korea with them.

Note: It’s important to note that each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, and individuals should carefully review the requirements and consult with the Korean immigration authorities or legal professionals for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The pathway to permanent residency or citizenship in Korea can involve a combination of visa types and residency periods.

Canada has two online portals through which individuals can apply for a visa to enter Canada. These portals are the official websites of the Government of Canada:

PORTAL 1-ย  https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html

PORTAL 2- https://ircc.canada.ca/visit-visiter/en/get-account-ircc-portal

DESCRIPTION OF BOTH PORTALS.

Portal 1-

The first portal is the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, which is the primary platform for most visa applications. This portal allows individuals to apply for a variety of visa types, including study permits, work permits, visitor visas, and more.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html

When you are applying for a visa using an online portal or website, it is typically necessary to attach all the required documents along with the visa application form and any other application forms that are applicable to your situation.

The required documents can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances.

Portal 2-

You can also submit your application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) directly through their website (IRCC).

https://ircc.canada.ca/visit-visiter/en/get-account-ircc-portal

On this link you will fill form online and attach the required documents online at the same time,” it means that the online platform provides a streamlined process for submitting a visa application.

Instead of filling out a paper application and mailing it with physical copies of the required documents, you can complete and submit the application entirely online. The link referred to in the statement likely takes you to a website or online portal where you can access the online application form.

Once you begin filling out the online form, you will be prompted to upload digital copies of the required supporting documents. These documents may include a passport, proof of financial support, educational or work experience documents, and other required documentation depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

By completing and submitting your application online, you can save time and have greater control over the application process. You can easily track the status of your application and receive updates on any requests for additional information or documentation.

Note: It’s important to note that the requirements and application process may vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the applicant’s individual circumstances. It’s recommended to carefully review the requirements and guidelines on the respective website before beginning the application process.