Since February 12, 2026, statuses of stay for ethnic Koreans have been merged into a single status: Overseas Korean (F-4). New H-2 visas are no longer issued, and by the end of July, 44,340 ethnic Koreans on H-2 had changed to F-4.
How to change
- Apply through HiKorea e-application (Overseas Korean (F-4) integrated application form)
- The fee for changing your status of stay is waived until December 31, 2027 (the fee for issuing a domestic residence report card is separate)
- Even if you do not change, you can keep your current H-2 status up to its maximum period of stay
- You must complete the Early Adaptation Program (5 hours). Some people are exempt or can postpone it.
Period of stay depends on your Korean language ability
- Korean language ability proven, or exempt: 3 years
- Registered in and attending the Korea Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP): up to 2 years
- Neither: up to 1 year
Other changes
- Work now allowed in 10 jobs, including construction and loading/unloading laborers, manual packers and gas station attendants
- For people with strong Korean skills, the income requirement for permanent residency (F-5) is lowered to 70% of GNI
The information above is as of the date of the Ministry of Justice press release. Actual requirements must be checked against the laws and guidelines in effect when you apply. If you have any questions, please leave them via Ask a question.