What can and can't I do for work with an F-2 residence visa?

For the F-2 residence visa, the scope of work depends on the sub-type (the detailed status under F-2). I will explain based on the most common one, Other Long-term Stay (F-2-99).

With F-2-99, you can only do work activities that the law allows. Whether you need permission depends on whether you continue in the field of your previous status. Restricted fields, such as private tutoring, are never allowed.

What work you can do

• The work activities recognized by law are those of Short-term Employment (C-4), Professor (E-1) through Crew Employment (E-10), and Visiting Employment (H-2).
• If you continue working in the field of your previous status, you can work without Permission for Activities Outside Status of Sojourn (체류자격외 활동허가). Only restricted employment fields are excluded. There is no other limit on the scope of activities.
• For example, if you changed from Conversation Instructor (E-2) to F-2-99 and keep teaching conversation, you can do so without permission.
• If you became F-2-99 from Manufacturing (E-9) through E-7-4, you must keep working in manufacturing.

⚠️ When you need permission first

• To work in a field different from your previous status, you must first get Permission for Activities Outside Status of Sojourn. Apply at your local Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청, 사무소·출장소).
• People whose previous status was Accompanying Family (F-3) or Visiting Family (F-1) also need permission before working. However, the manual also says that if you changed from Accompanying Family (F-3-18), you can work in any occupation except restricted employment fields. Please check with Immigration to see which applies to you.
• If you work without permission, you can be punished for violating Article 20 of the Immigration Act (출입국관리법).
• Even if you apply, permission can be denied if you do not meet the requirements.

What you must not do

• Private tutoring
• Fields where the Minister of Justice restricts employment (for the list of restricted fields, such as gambling and entertainment businesses, check HiKorea)

💡 Other F-2 types are different

• Family members of a points-based Talented Person (F-2-7) can work if they meet their own income requirement and get Resident Family (F-2-71). If they do not meet the income requirement, they must stay as Visiting Family (F-1), and employment and for-profit activities are banned.
• If you got F-2 as a skilled worker, you cannot work outside the field of your previous status.

If you tell me your detailed F-2 code (for example, F-2-99 or F-2-7) and your previous status, I can guide you more exactly. Before you start working, check once more at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or 1345.