Bringing your family with you to Korea is an important step. If you are currently residing in Korea on a specific long-term visa, your family members may be eligible to join you under the F-3 Accompanying Family visa. As a Korean employment visa specialist, I understand the importance of clear, accurate information during this process. This guide aims to provide a straightforward explanation of the F-3 visa, focusing on the key requirements and necessary documents.
The F-3 visa is designed to allow certain dependents of primary visa holders (such as those on E-1, E-3, E-4, E-5, and qualified D-8 visas) to reside with them in Korea. It’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria, particularly regarding financial stability, to ensure a smooth application process.
Understanding the Financial Requirements
One of the most critical aspects of the F-3 visa application is demonstrating the financial capability to support your accompanying family members in Korea. The specific income standards vary depending on the planned duration of stay and the number of family members you wish to invite.
According to recent guidelines effective from July 1, 2025, the income standards are as follows:
- For stays of 12 months or more : Your annual income must exceed a specified amount based on the number of household members. For instance, for a 2-person household, the standard is KRW 23,595,948 per year, increasing incrementally with each additional family member. For an 8-person household or more, the standard increases by KRW 5,541,738 per additional member. Note that for international students (D-2, D-4 visa holders), the principal visa holder is not included when calculating the number of household members.
- For stays of less than 12 months : The required financial ability is calculated by multiplying the number of months of stay by a monthly standard amount, which also varies by household size. For example, the monthly amount for a 1-person household is KRW 1,196,007, and for a 2-person household, it’s KRW 1,996,329, going up with more family members. For an 8-person household or more, the amount increases by KRW 461,811 per additional member.
It’s important to note that only income objectively proven by a certificate of income issued in Korea is considered. If your income falls slightly below the standard (less than 10% shortfall), you may still meet the financial requirement by demonstrating deposits of at least 5 times the shortfall amount.
Certain visa holders are exempt from demonstrating financial capability, including those with Professor (E-1), Research (E-3), Technical Instructor (E-4), and Professional (E-5) status. Large-amount investors (USD 500,000 or more) on a Corporate Investment (D-8) visa are also exempt.
Essential Documents for Your Application
Gathering the correct documents is crucial for a successful F-3 visa application. The required documents can vary slightly depending on your specific situation. Based on the guidelines, here are some key documents you may need:
- Income Certificate : If you can obtain one in Korea, an income certificate for the year preceding your application, issued by the National Tax Service, is required.
- Proof of Assets : If your income is below the standard but you are supplementing with assets, you’ll need a certificate of domestic deposit balance held for more than 6 months under the principal visa holder’s name.
- Employment Contract : A standard employment contract stating your wages is necessary if applicable.
- Proof of Overseas Income : If your income is paid from abroad, a certificate of dispatch or employment may be required.
- Deposit Balance for Verification : If income verification is challenging, a certificate of domestic or overseas deposit balance held for 6 months or more under the name of the principal visa holder and/or spouse can be used for verification as living expenses.
- For D-8 Visa Holders : Documents proving living expenses as initial settlement expenses under the principal visa holder’s name, such as a foreign currency remittance statement or customs declaration, are needed.
These requirements are effective for applications received after July 1, 2025. Always double-check the latest requirements with the Korean immigration authorities or a qualified professional as regulations can change.
An Expert’s Perspective
From my experience assisting individuals with Korean visas, the F-3 visa application, while seemingly straightforward, requires careful attention to detail, especially regarding the financial documentation. Ensuring that your income and assets are clearly verifiable and meet the specific criteria for your household size and intended length of stay is paramount. Providing accurate and complete documents from the outset can significantly expedite the process and prevent potential delays or rejections. It’s always advisable to start preparing your documents well in advance of your planned application date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who is eligible to apply for an F-3 visa?
A: The F-3 visa is typically for the spouse and unmarried children under a certain age of individuals holding specific long-term visas in Korea, such as certain E series visas (E-1, E-3, E-4, E-5) and qualified D-8 visas.
Q: What are the main requirements for the F-3 visa?
A: The main requirements generally include proof of relationship to the primary visa holder, the primary visa holder’s valid visa and residency in Korea, and demonstration of sufficient financial means to support the accompanying family.
Q: How is financial capability assessed?
A: Financial capability is assessed based on income and/or assets, with specific standards depending on the number of family members and the planned duration of stay.
Q: Are there any exemptions to the financial requirements?
A: Yes, certain visa holders like E-1, E-3, E-4, E-5, and large-amount D-8 investors are exempt from proving financial capability.
Q: What documents are needed to prove financial capability?
A: This can include income certificates, bank statements showing sufficient deposits held for a specific period, and potentially other documents depending on the source of income and specific circumstances.
Q: How long does the F-3 visa application process take?
A: The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications and the specific immigration office. It’s best to check with the relevant authorities for the most accurate estimate.
Q: Can I work in Korea with an F-3 visa?
A: Generally, the F-3 visa itself does not permit employment. If an F-3 visa holder wishes to work, they may need to apply to change their visa status to one that allows employment.
Q: Where can I find the most up-to-date information on F-3 visa requirements?
A: The official website of the Korea Immigration Service (Hi Korea) is the most reliable source for the latest information and regulations. Consulting with a Korean immigration specialist is also highly recommended.
외국인 유학생 가족 계절근로 초청
한국으로 가족초청 비자
