Can I change from F-4 (Overseas Korean) to another visa status?

Yes, you can change from F-4 to another status. But each status has different requirements. You need to check them one by one.

F-4 has few limits on work. Except for simple labor and gambling or entertainment businesses, your status does not block your activities. So if your goal is to work, you often do not need to change.

Statuses people often change to

• Permanent residence (F-5): For people who plan to live in Korea for a long time. The permanent residence type for overseas Koreans (F-5-7, etc.) has its own requirements.
• Residence (F-2): For people who change for long-term stay. Check the requirements on HiKorea.
• Study abroad (D-2), Specific activities (E-7), etc.: For when your goal is to study or work in a specific job. You must meet the requirements of that status separately.
• Marriage immigration (F-6): For people married to a Korean citizen.

How to apply

1. Make a visit reservation on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr).
2. Go to the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청) in charge of your address (office or branch office).
3. Apply for permission to change your status. The fee is 100,000 KRW. For a change to permanent residence (F-5), it is 200,000 KRW.

The documents differ for each status. Usually you need the application form, passport, Alien Registration Card or Domestic Residence Report Card (거소신고증), and the fee. You also need the documents for that status.

⚠️ Things to note

• For a change to permanent residence (F-5), etc., you may need to submit a criminal record certificate from abroad. Some people are exempt, such as those under 14.
• Approval is not guaranteed. Even if you meet the requirements, it is decided in the review.
• You must apply before your period of stay ends.

Tell me which status you want to change to. I will explain the requirements and documents for that status in detail. Please check once more with HiKorea or 1345 to be sure.