South Korea Permanent Residency

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South Korea offers a Permanent Residency program that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country on a long-term basis. This status provides several benefits, including the ability to reside in South Korea without the need for continuous visa renewals. Obtaining South Korean Permanent Residency involves meeting certain eligibility criteria, such as a minimum period of residence and financial stability. In this introduction, we will briefly discuss the key points related to South Korea's Permanent Residency program, its requirements, and the advantages it offers to eligible individuals.

Can I live in South Korea permanently?

Here are some pathways to permanent residency and long-term stays in South Korea, as mentioned in the provided information:

Permanent Residency (F-2 Visa): You can obtain permanent residency in South Korea through the F-2 visa. One common way to qualify for this visa is by marrying a South Korean citizen. After obtaining an F-2 visa through marriage, you initially receive a long-term stay permit for three years. You can then apply for an F-5 visa, which allows for permanent residency.
Investment: You can invest in South Korea, either by starting your business or investing in an existing one. Initially, you can apply for a C-2 business visa. With sufficient grounds, this visa can be reissued as a D-8 visa, which may lead to a residence permit.
Professional Migration: Foreign specialists in certain professions, such as engineers or professors, may obtain a residence permit. Once you have a residence permit, you can apply for an F-5 visa or even South Korean citizenship.
Contributions to South Korea: There is an option for foreigners who have made significant contributions to the development of South Korea to obtain a residence permit. However, the criteria for this contribution are not clearly defined.
Korean Descent: If you or your relatives have Korean roots or are of Korean descent, you may be eligible to apply for a visa based on the Law on Ethnic Koreans.

Requirements for permanent residency in South Korea

Obtaining permanent residency in South Korea is possible through various long-term residency visas, with the F-2-7 and F-2-99 being among the most popular options. Once you hold one of these visas, you can apply for the F-5 visa, which grants permanent residence in South Korea.

To qualify for the F-5 visa, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria:

Invest approximately ₩600 million (about $500,000) or more in a Korean business and employ five or more local individuals.
Marry a Korean citizen or someone holding an F-5 visa.
Obtain a degree in South Korea.
Attain a doctorate degree and secure a job in a high-tech field.
Run a business under a D-8-4 start-up visa for at least three years, generate ₩300 million (approximately $256,100) in revenue, and employ at least two Korean workers for a minimum of six months.
Gain recognition from the Ministry of Justice for exceptional talent in the areas of Science, Education, Culture, Arts, Sports, or Management.
Hold an F-2 visa for at least five years and demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
Maintain an F-4 Overseas Korean visa for a minimum of two years.

South Korea permanent residency viws

In South Korea, there are several types of permanent residency visas, commonly known as F-5 visas. These visas are designed for foreign nationals who wish to live and work in South Korea on a long-term or permanent basis. The main types of F-5 permanent residency visas include:

F-5-1 Visa: This visa is for foreign nationals who are married to a South Korean citizen. To be eligible for an F-5-1 visa, you typically need to have lived in South Korea for three consecutive years on a long-term visa (e.g., F-2, F-3, F-4, or F-5) and have been married to a South Korean citizen for at least three years.
F-5-2 Visa: The F-5-2 visa is for other eligible foreign residents who have lived in South Korea for five consecutive years on a long-term visa (e.g., F-2, F-3, F-4, or F-5) and meet certain criteria, such as income and language requirements.
F-5-3 Visa: The F-5-3 visa is for foreign nationals of Korean descent (Overseas Koreans) who wish to live and work in South Korea. It is available to those who can prove their Korean heritage and meet specific requirements.
F-5-4 Visa: The F-5-4 visa is for foreign investors and entrepreneurs running businesses in South Korea. It is often referred to as the "Investor Visa." To qualify, individuals typically need to make a significant investment in the country.
F-5-5 Visa: The F-5-5 visa is for foreign nationals with outstanding skills or achievements in various fields, including arts, culture, sports, or academics. This visa is often referred to as the "Talent Visa."
F-5-6 Visa: The F-5-6 visa is for individuals who have made significant contributions to South Korea and are recognized for their achievements. It is typically granted to those who have excelled in fields such as science, technology, or the arts.

South Korea permanent residency by investment

Here's an overview of the primary investment-based permanent residency options in South Korea:

Investor Visa (D-8 Visa):

This visa is for foreign investors who plan to invest a significant amount of money in South Korea.
The minimum investment amount may vary depending on the region and the specific project you're interested in. The government determines the minimum investment threshold.
You will typically need to establish a new business or invest in an existing business in South Korea. The business should contribute to the local economy and create jobs.
The D-8 visa may lead to permanent residency if your business investment is successful, but it usually takes several years of maintaining your investment and meeting certain job creation and financial criteria.

Real Estate Investment:

South Korea may offer a pathway to permanent residency for individuals who make a significant investment in South Korean real estate.
The minimum investment amount and eligibility requirements can change, so it's crucial to check the latest regulations.
In some cases, you may be required to maintain the investment for several years before becoming eligible for permanent residency.

Point-Based System for Investment:

South Korea has introduced a point-based immigration system that takes into account various factors, including your age, education, work experience, Korean language proficiency, and investment in South Korea.
If you meet the required points and make a significant investment, you may be eligible for permanent residency.

South Korea permanent residency visa

South Korea offers a few different types of permanent residency visas for foreign nationals who wish to live in the country on a long-term or permanent basis. The most common types of permanent residency visas in South Korea include:

F-5 Visa (F-5-1 and F-5-2): The F-5 visa is the most common type of permanent residency visa in South Korea. It is available to foreign nationals who have lived in South Korea for five consecutive years with an F-2, F-3, F-4, or F-5 visa and meet certain criteria. The F-5-1 visa is for those who have completed three years of marriage to a Korean citizen, and the F-5-2 visa is for other eligible foreign residents.
F-2 Visa: The F-2 visa is available to foreign nationals who have lived in South Korea for at least five years and meet certain income and Korean language requirements. There are several subcategories within the F-2 visa, including F-2-1 (marriage-based) and F-2-7 (points-based).
F-6 Visa: The F-6 visa is for foreign nationals who are married to a South Korean citizen or have a child who is a South Korean citizen. It allows them to live and work in South Korea.
F-7 Visa: The F-7 visa is for foreign nationals of Korean descent (Korean Overseas Koreans) and their family members, who want to live and work in South Korea.
F-9 Visa: The F-9 visa is for foreign investors and entrepreneurs who are running businesses in South Korea. It is also known as the "Investor Visa."

To apply for permanent residency in South Korea, you will typically need to meet certain criteria, such as having a clean criminal record, sufficient income, and a basic understanding of the Korean language. The specific requirements and application procedures may vary depending on the type of visa and your individual circumstances.

How long after work visa can you apply for residence permit in South Korea?

In South Korea, you can typically apply for a residence permit, such as an F-5 permanent residency visa, after you have lived and worked in the country for five consecutive years with a valid work visa, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for permanent residency. Keep in mind that the specific requirements and processing times may vary, so it's essential to consult with the relevant immigration authorities or seek legal advice for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

South Korea visa requirements for Canadian permanent residents

Canadian citizens are required to obtain a visa for visits to South Korea lasting longer than 6 months. However, for stays under 6 months, such as those for tourism or business purposes, Canadians do not need a visa. Previously, Canadian travelers had to obtain a K-ETA visa waiver to enter South Korea without a visa, but this requirement is now optional. Those with an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) enjoy the added benefit of not having to fill out an arrival card upon entry.

What does a permanent residence card in South Korea give?

South Korea issues Permanent Residence Cards to foreign nationals who have been granted permanent residency status in the country. This card serves as evidence of your permanent resident status in South Korea and allows you to live and work in the country without the need for a separate visa. Here are some key points about the South Korea Permanent Residence Card:

Eligibility: To obtain a Permanent Residence Card in South Korea, you typically need to meet certain criteria, which may include having lived in South Korea for a specified number of years, maintaining legal residency, and meeting income and other requirements. The specific eligibility criteria can vary depending on the type of visa you hold before applying for permanent residency.
Application Process: The application process for a Permanent Residence Card involves submitting various documents and forms to the South Korean immigration authorities. You will need to provide evidence of your eligibility, such as proof of your financial stability, employment history, and ties to the country.
Benefits: With a Permanent Residence Card, you can enjoy the following benefits:

Freedom to live and work in South Korea without needing a separate work visa.
Access to social services and healthcare similar to South Korean citizens.
Eligibility to sponsor family members for their own residency in South Korea.

Renewal: Permanent Residence Cards in South Korea do not need to be renewed. Once granted, they typically have no expiration date, provided you continue to meet the requirements and maintain your legal status in the country.
Loss or Replacement: If you lose your Permanent Residence Card or it gets damaged or stolen, you can apply for a replacement card through the immigration authorities.

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