When can I apply to extend my H-2 (Working Visit) stay period, and what documents do I need?

H-2 has been merged into F-4, so check a change to F-4 first. From 2026.2.12, H-2 is no longer newly issued. Compatriots who currently hold H-2 can apply to change to F-4 on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr).

If you want to keep extending as H-2, apply from 4 months before your stay period ends until the expiry date itself. If you apply before it expires, you can stay while you wait, even if the result comes late.

Prepare these documents

• Basic documents (application form, passport, registration card, fee)
• Confirmation for Extension of Employment Period for Those Whose Employment Period Has Expired (취업기간 만료자 취업활동 기간연장 확인서): get it from the Ministry of Employment and Labor (고용노동부) when you extend for employment
• Guide and Precautions for Holders of the Working Visit Status for Non-Employment Purposes (취업 외 목적 방문취업 체류자격 소지자 안내 및 유의사항) (separate form): fill it out at the immigration office when you extend for a non-employment purpose

The documents for H-2 differ depending on the purpose of the extension. Check other documents once more with your local immigration office.

Application steps and permitted period

1. Decide the purpose of the extension (employment or non-employment).
2. If it is for employment, first get the confirmation from the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
3. Before the expiry date, apply on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or at the immigration office (출입국·외국인청(사무소)) that has jurisdiction over your address.
4. The extension fee is 60,000 KRW. Online, pay by card, bank transfer, or mobile phone. In person, you usually pay with revenue stamps.

• Extension for employment: Permitted within 4 years and 10 months from your entry date (or the date your status change was permitted).
• Extension for non-employment purposes: Permitted 1 year at a time.

⚠️ Points to watch

If you are caught working after being granted an extension for a non-employment purpose, you may be fined for violating the Immigration Act. If it happens repeatedly, your stay may be denied and you may be ordered to leave Korea. Also, if you change your workplace, you must report the change of workplace within 15 days of the change.

If you are unsure whether it is better to change from H-2 to F-4, check with HiKorea or 1345. If your expiry date is close, get advice from the Kevi administrative agent.