When can I apply to extend my F-1 Visiting and Residing stay period, and what documents do I need?

Apply from 4 months before your stay expires until the day it expires. If you apply after the expiry date, you may be fined.

The documents differ a little for each F-1 sub-type (F-1-6, F-1-21, etc.). Below are the documents that apply to all types.

Prepare these documents

• Basic documents (Application Form Annex No. 34, passport, alien registration card, fee)
• Proof of residence: lease contract, housing provision confirmation, utility bill receipt, dormitory fee receipt, etc.
• Letter of guarantee (신원보증서): you can skip it if your guarantee period is still valid (for F-1-6)

Extra documents by type

• Housekeeping settlement (F-1-6, marriage breakdown): marriage certificate showing the divorce, a statement explaining why you must stay and proof of property division, 1 photo
• Domestic helper of a foreign mission official (F-1-21): official cooperation letter from the embassy in Korea, employment contract

Steps to apply

1. Prepare your documents.
2. Book a visit on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr). You or your agent applies at the immigration office with jurisdiction over your address (출입국·외국인관서). Some visa types do not allow an agent to apply.
3. Pay the fee. A stay period extension usually costs 60,000 KRW.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• You must be in Korea on the day you apply. You cannot apply, or use an agent, from overseas.
• During the review, you may be asked to submit more documents.
• F-1 is not a work visa. The permitted period is only granted within the stay period of the main visa holder. Housekeeping settlement (F-1-6) is permitted for up to 6 months each time.
• The most important factor is whether you have unavoidable circumstances that require you to keep staying in Korea.

If you tell me your F-1 sub-type (F-1-6, F-1-21, etc.), I can explain the documents more exactly. Please check the final document list once more on HiKorea or by calling 1345.