F-2 Long-Term Residence
Long-term residents granted broad residence rights, including some refugees and long-staying workers.
The F-2 Long-Term 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 Long-Term Residence is for
Long-term residents granted broad residence rights, including some refugees and long-staying workers.
Primary stepping stone to F-5 permanent residence.
F-2 Long-Term Residence - eligibility criteria
- Several years of lawful continuous residence on an eligible status
- Stable income and accommodation
- Clean immigration and criminal record
- Meet the specific F-2 sub-category criteria
F-2 Long-Term Residence cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the F-2 Long-Term 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 | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Inside Korea (change of status) |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Broad work rights (most sub-categories) |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~₩130,000 / US$100 (change of status) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Primary stepping stone to F-5 permanent residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Primary stepping stone to F-5 permanent residence.
Many applicants also compare F-2-7 · F-2-7 Points-Based Residence, F-5 · F-5 Permanent Residence, F-6 · F-6 Marriage Migrant (Spouse of a Korean). 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 Long-Term Residence pitfalls we fix
F-2 Long-Term Residence - frequently asked questions
How much does the F-2 Long-Term Residence cost?
The F-2 Long-Term 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 Long-Term Residence take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the F-2 Long-Term Residence lead to permanent residence?
Primary stepping stone to F-5 permanent residence.
Can I work on the F-2 Long-Term Residence?
Work rights: Broad work rights (most sub-categories).
Who can apply for the F-2 Long-Term Residence?
Long-term residents granted broad residence rights, including some refugees and long-staying workers.
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