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SOUTH KOREA – Updated F-3 visa requirements.
April 9, 2025
By: Patricia Clarino, Senior Manager, Newland Chase Advisory
Applicants should ensure that they meet the new document requirements, including apostilled or legalized certificates and proof of financial stability. The updated policy on visa status conversions requires families to plan their entry into South Korea more strategically, as they will no longer have the option to change their visa status after arrival. Additionally, companies should also expect longer lead times as a result of these changes.
Recent changes to the F-3 visa application and renewal process require additional documentation and more coordinated procedures for both primary visa holders and their dependents. Apostilled or legalized marriage and birth certificates for dependents are now mandatory when applying for an F-3 visa, which was previously discretionary. F-3 visa renewals must now occur simultaneously with the primary visa holder’s renewal, requiring families to schedule their visa extensions together. Additionally, family members entering South Korea on short-term visas or under visa waiver status will no longer be allowed to convert their status to F-3 within the country, eliminating the previous flexibility to adjust visa status after arrival. Starting July 1, 2025, proof of financial support will be required for F-3 visa applications, with specific financial thresholds depending on family size.
Effective immediately for F-3 Visa applications.
Apostilled or legalized marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for dependent children are now mandatory when applying for the F-3 visa. In addition, proof of residence in South Korea may also be requested by the authorities similar to that requirement for the main applicant.
Family members entering South Korea under short-term visas or visa waiver status can no longer convert to an F-3 visa while in the country.
Effective immediately for F-3 visa renewals.
F-3 visa renewals must be processed at the same time as the primary visa holder’s extension, meaning family members must coordinate their visa extensions.
Effective from July 1, 2025 for F-3 visa applications.
Proof of financial support is now required when applying for an F-3 visa through a Korean consulate or Visa Application Center. Applicants must provide a bank statement showing the average balance for the past six months, adjusted for family size.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry here should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
