F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation
Family members joining relatives in Korea, including parents and certain dependants, for longer stays.
The F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation is a South Korean family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation is for
Family members joining relatives in Korea, including parents and certain dependants, for longer stays.
Long-term family residence can lead to F-2 and F-5 in qualifying cases.
F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation - eligibility criteria
- Family relationship to a Korean national or eligible resident
- Proof of the relationship (family records)
- Sponsor able to support the applicant
- Within the eligible relative categories
F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation (South Korea) is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside Korea (consulate) or change of status inside Korea |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Generally no work (limited permission in some sub-categories) |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | Long-term family residence can lead to F-2 and F-5 in qualifying cases. |
Pathway & next steps
Long-term family residence can lead to F-2 and F-5 in qualifying cases.
Many applicants also compare F-3 · F-3 Accompanying Dependent, F-6 · F-6 Marriage Migrant (Spouse of a Korean), F-2 · F-2 Long-Term Residence. Run a free VisaChief check to see which South Korean route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation pitfalls we fix
F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation - frequently asked questions
How much does the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation cost?
The F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation government fee is ~₩80,000 / US$60 (long-term single-entry). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation lead to permanent residence?
Long-term family residence can lead to F-2 and F-5 in qualifying cases.
Can I work on the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation?
Work rights: Generally no work (limited permission in some sub-categories).
Who can apply for the F-1 Visiting / Cohabitation?
Family members joining relatives in Korea, including parents and certain dependants, for longer stays.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official South Korea government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- HiKorea (Korea Immigration) - official South Korea immigration authority