🛂 Resident Visa Extension in South Korea: Step-by-Step Guide for F, D, and E Visa Holders | HiKorea Application & Required Documents

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Permission for extension of stay for a registered foreigner in Korea.

If you're living in South Korea on an F, D, or E visa and your stay is nearing expiry, you're required to apply for an extension of stay—also known as a visa renewal. Starting early reduces the chance of last-minute hiccups such as incomplete documents or fully booked appointment slots.

Foreign Resident at Immigration Office Counter in Korea

📌 Who Should Apply & When

• Who: Foreigners on F, D, or E visas (students, workers, spouses, researchers)
• When: From 4 months before to the last day of your current stay period
• Note: Late applications may result in penalties under the Immigration Act

Why this matters: The same visa type can still require different proofs depending on life changes (new job, address change, leave of absence, etc.). Preparing for those variations saves time.

Example: A D-2 student returning from a leave of absence attached a certificate of reinstatement to bridge the gap and received approval without delay.

Watch-out: Submitting on the very last day risks “supplement required” notices that may push you into overstay territory. Aim for at least 2–4 weeks in advance.

📍 How to Apply

🔹 a) 🖥️ Online Application Process via HiKOREA

If you're applying for immigration services online, here's the step-by-step process using HiKOREA e-Application:

1️⃣ File an e-Application
2️⃣ Attach Documents for Submission
3️⃣ Submit Application
4️⃣ Processing by Immigration Office
5️⃣ Confirmation of Processing Results

⚠️ Important Notice
Some applications must be filed in person. This is in accordance with the Ministry of Justice Notice No. 2019-81.

📌 e-Application Operation Notice – Application method varies depending on your visa type and individual status of stay.

✍️ Start Your Visa Extension Application

(You’ll need to log-in to gain access to this service.)

🔹 b) In-Person at Immigration Office

• Book an appointment online via HiKorea
• Bring all necessary documents
• Some visas (like F-6) may require personal presence

Why in-person: Identity checks or short interviews may be needed. Save your reservation slip and arrive 10–15 minutes early.

Example: F-6 (spouse) renewals may request proof of cohabitation and relationship continuity (e.g., joint bills, lease).

Watch-out: Security checks can add time; keep belongings minimal and carry ID.

📄 Required Documents

• Form No. 34 (Application)
• Passport (valid)
• Alien Registration Card
• Proof of residence (rental contract, utility bill, etc.)
• Visa-specific documents (e.g., school certificate, employment letter)

Tip: Address changes must be reflected with immigration, not just at the local district office. Recent (≤ 3 months) proofs are safest.

Example: An employment letter missing job description and contract type triggered a supplement request; adding an HR letter with seal solved it.

Watch-out: Mixed English/Korean docs should be consistent; use notarized translations or official HR-sealed versions when needed.

💵 Fees & Processing Time

• Fee: ₩50,000 (standard) / ₩30,000 (F-6 visas)
• Time: 10 days to 2 months depending on case

Trend: Peak seasons (semester start, hiring waves) can slow processing. Check your application status regularly if you applied online.

Example: A corporate merger delayed verification; submitting the updated business registration and renewed contract resolved it.

Watch-out: Fees are generally non-refundable. Verify your visa class and eligibility before paying.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Extension is allowed only within passport validity
• Late submission may lead to fines or deportation
• Short-term visas may require different handling

Passport first: If your passport expires soon, immigration may only grant an extension up to its validity. Renew your passport first for a full-term extension.

Example: With just 5 months of passport validity left, an applicant renewed the passport and then received a full 1-year extension.

Watch-out: Overstays jeopardize future entries and visas. Resolve before expiry.

📊 Quick Recap

Step	Task
1️⃣	Apply 4 months before expiry via HiKorea or immigration office
2️⃣	Gather Form 34, passport, ARC (Alien Registration Card), proof of stay, visa documents
3️⃣	Pay fee (₩50,000 / ₩30,000)
4️⃣	Submit and track progress online or in-person
5️⃣	Receive approval in 10 days to 2 months

📞 Need Help?

• Immigration Call Center: 1345 (from Korea)
• Online Services: gov.kr official guide
• Form & Appointment: HiKorea

Tip: 1345 supports multiple languages. Keep your Alien Registration No., passport No., and application No. ready for faster assistance.

✅ Final Thoughts

Start early, gather the right documents, and don’t wait until your visa expires. Staying legal in Korea is straightforward when you follow the correct steps. Be proactive, and enjoy your life in Korea with peace of mind. 🇰🇷

One-line takeaway: With time to spare and consistent documentation, an extension is a procedural check—not a hurdle.

📌 Related Reads

• 💰 2025 Government Support Funds – Living, Housing, Medical, Education
• 🪪 ARC (Alien Registration Card) Complete Guide – Issue, Update, Lost & Reissue
• 🗓 HiKOREA Visit Reservation – How to Cut Waiting Time

🔎 See Other Government Support Funds (All-in-One)

Legal stay is the first step to a smooth life in Korea—review this checklist today and file with confidence.

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