Can I change from F-6 (marriage immigrant) to another status of stay?

Yes, you can. But you must meet the requirements of the status you want, and you must get permission from immigration. The most common path for F-6 holders is permanent residence (F-5-2).

Common changes from F-6

• Permanent residence (F-5-2): You can apply if you have stayed continuously in F-6 status for 2 years or more. The requirements are good conduct, the ability to support yourself, and basic knowledge of Korean language and culture.
• Changing the sub-category within F-6: If you are divorced and raising a child you had with a Korean citizen, you can change to child-rearing (F-6-2). This is allowed even if the foreign spouse is responsible for the divorce. If the marriage ended because of the spouse's fault, you can change to marriage breakdown (F-6-3).
• Household affairs wrap-up (F-1-6): This is for a divorce that does not fall under F-6-3, where you still need to stay in Korea for things like dividing property. Permission is given for up to 6 months.
• Work or study visas (E-7, D-2, etc.): You must separately meet that visa's requirements, such as education and work experience.

What to check before you apply

• Whether you meet the requirements of the status you want. For permanent residence, your income usually must be at or above the previous year's gross national income (GNI) per person. You also need to complete Level 5 of the Social Integration Program (사회통합프로그램) or pass the comprehensive assessment for permanent residence.
• Fee: Changing status of stay costs 100,000 KRW. Changing to permanent residence (F-5) costs 200,000 KRW.
• When to apply: You must apply before your current period of stay ends, through HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the immigration office in charge of your address.

💡 Good to know

F-6 has no limits on work. So if you only want to work, you do not need to change to a work visa like E-7. Changing status after a divorce depends a lot on your personal situation. In that case, try the Kevi administrative agent consultation (Visa Service in the app).

Once you decide which status to change to, check the requirements again at HiKorea or 1345.