F-2-7 Points-Based Residence
Skilled professionals who qualify for residence through Korea's points-based scoring system.
The F-2-7 Points-Based Residence is a South Korean settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~₩130,000 / US$100 (change of status)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence is for
Skilled professionals who qualify for residence through Korea's points-based scoring system.
Direct pathway to F-5 permanent residence once thresholds and years are met.
F-2-7 Points-Based Residence - eligibility criteria
- Score the required points across age, education, income and Korean ability
- Hold an eligible work or study status (e.g. E-1 to E-7, D-10)
- Meet the minimum annual income threshold
- Clean criminal and immigration record
F-2-7 Points-Based Residence cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence (South Korea) is ~₩130,000 / US$100 (change of status), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at HiKorea (Korea Immigration).
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Inside Korea (change of status from a qualifying work/study visa) |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Broad work rights |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~₩130,000 / US$100 (change of status) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Direct pathway to F-5 permanent residence once thresholds and years are met. |
Pathway & next steps
Direct pathway to F-5 permanent residence once thresholds and years are met.
Many applicants also compare E-7 · E-7 Special Occupation (Skilled / Designated Activities), F-2 · F-2 Long-Term Residence, F-5 · F-5 Permanent 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-2-7 Points-Based Residence pitfalls we fix
F-2-7 Points-Based Residence - frequently asked questions
How much does the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence cost?
The F-2-7 Points-Based Residence government fee is ~₩130,000 / US$100 (change of status). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at HiKorea (Korea Immigration) before applying.
How long does the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence lead to permanent residence?
Direct pathway to F-5 permanent residence once thresholds and years are met.
Can I work on the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence?
Work rights: Broad work rights.
Who can apply for the F-2-7 Points-Based Residence?
Skilled professionals who qualify for residence through Korea's points-based scoring system.
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