When can I apply for an F-2 residence extension, and what documents do I need?

You can apply to extend your F-2 residence stay from 4 months before your expiry date up to the expiry date itself. The documents differ a little by F-2 sub-type (F-2-1, F-2-3, F-2-5, F-2-99, etc.).

Prepare these documents

• Basic documents (application form, passport, Alien Registration Card, fee): Fill out the Integrated Application Form (Annex Form No. 34).
• Proof of residence: Examples are a lease contract, a housing provision confirmation, or utility bill receipts. High-amount investors (F-2-5) and other long-term residents (F-2-99) submit this.
• Letter of identity guarantee: Needed for F-2-5, F-2-99, and spouses of permanent residents.
• Proof of family relationship: Minor children of permanent residents (F-2-3) submit a family relation certificate that shows the marriage record.
• Investment maintenance confirmation: For the public-interest business investment F-2-12, submit a confirmation from the investment-receiving institution issued within the last 5 days.
• Proof of corporate officer or shareholder status: If this applies to you, submit a certificate of employment or documents confirming your share ownership.

Application steps

1. Check your F-2 sub-type (for example, F-2-1 or F-2-99) on your Alien Registration Card.
2. Prepare your documents. Then visit the Immigration Office (branch office or sub-office) that covers your address, or apply online at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr).
3. Pay the fee. The standard extension fee is 60,000 KRW.
4. Wait for the result. Processing takes 15 days in total for general cases. It takes 60 days in total if an investigation is needed.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• If you apply after your expiry date, you will be charged a fine. Be sure to apply before it expires.
• If you have violated Korean law, you may have to take Law-Abiding Citizen Education before your extension is approved. This may apply if the violation was within the last 5 years.
• If you have unpaid health insurance premiums, your extension period may be shortened to 6 months or less. Pay in advance and keep the receipt.

To check the exact documents for your type, check again at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (1345).