Can I change my visa status in Korea?
Yes, under certain conditions, you can change your visa status while staying in Korea. For example:
✅ From a D-10 job seeker visa to an E-7 employment visa
✅ From an E-9 (non-professional) to E-74 (points-based skilled worker)
✅ From a student visa (D-2) to work visa (E-7 or D-10)
✅ From a spouse visa (F-6) to permanent resident (F-5)
However, not all status changes are allowed automatically. Your eligibility depends on your current visa, purpose of stay, and whether the Korean immigration office approves the change.
👉 You must apply through the immigration system, and in many cases, you’ll need to visit in person.
➡️ Click here to check visa change eligibility on HiKorea
What documents do I need to change my visa status?
This depends on your visa types (from and to), but in general, you will need:
- Application form (from HiKorea)
- Passport and Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Reason for change (letter, job offer, marriage certificate, etc.)
- Certificate of employment (if applicable)
- Financial proof (bank statement, salary slips)
- Fees (usually KRW 100,000 for change)
💡 It’s always recommended to **contact immigration (1345)** or book an appointment online before going in.
Can you extend a visa online in Korea?
Yes, many Korean visa types allow for **online extension via the HiKorea system** without visiting the immigration office.
✅ Eligible for online extension:
– D-2 (Student Visa)
– E-2 (English Teacher Visa)
– E-7, E-9 (Work Visas)
– F-6 (Spouse Visa)
– F-1, F-2 (Family/Dependent)
– D-10 (Job Seeking)
✅ Online extension platform:
➡️ HiKorea: Online Visa Extension Service
Just follow these steps:
- Visit www.hikorea.go.kr
- Log in with your ARC details
- Go to “E-Application” → “Extension of Stay”
- Fill out your application and upload supporting documents (if required)
- Pay the application fee online
🕓 Processing time: Usually within 3–5 business days.
What if I’m not eligible for online extension?
Some visa types or situations require you to **visit the immigration office in person**:
– You’ve already overstayed
– You’re changing your purpose of stay (e.g. student → worker)
– You lack sufficient documents
– You’re applying for F-5 (permanent residency) or F-2-7 (points-based visa)
➡️ Find your nearest immigration office here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I extend my visa after the expiry date?
– Only in emergency cases. You should apply for extension at least **2 weeks before your visa expires**. - What happens if I stay after my visa expiry?
– Overstaying is a serious violation. Fines range from KRW 100,000 to KRW 3,000,000 depending on days overstayed. - Can someone else apply for me?
– No. The applicant (you) must submit documents personally or through a registered immigration agency.
Summary: Quick Links
- 🖥️ HiKorea – Online Visa Services
- 📞 Korea Immigration Contact Center (Call 1345)
- 📍 Find Immigration Offices in Korea
Need Help Changing or Extending Your Visa?
We’ll soon cover:
– How to apply for D-10 visa after graduation
– E-7 to F-2 transition guide
– How to extend spouse visa (F-6) for the first time
Stay tuned and make your visa process stress-free!