Seoul to Gangwon: Train Adventure | Travel Guide

on
0

How to Extend Your Visa in Korea

on

🌍 Foreign Residents in Korea Series

Step-by-step guides for foreigners living in Korea — from address registration and visa to banking, taxes, and digital certificates.

Don’t panic about visa renewals — a few documents and a bit of timing make it easier than you think.

How to Extend Your Visa in Korea
In short

Foreign residents in Korea must apply for a visa extension before their current visa expires. You can extend through the HiKorea website or by visiting the nearest immigration office. Bring your ARC, passport, and supporting documents such as employment or enrollment certificates. Most extensions are processed within 2–3 weeks.

Who Needs a Visa Extension

If your stay in Korea exceeds the period granted by your visa, you must apply for an extension before it expires. This applies to:

  • Students on D-2 (degree) or D-4 (language) visas
  • Employees on E-2 (teaching), E-7 (professional), or other work visas
  • Dependents on F-3 visas or long-term residents on F-2
  • Job seekers on D-10 visas
⚠️ Note Apply for extension at least 1 month before your visa expiration date to avoid penalties.

How to Apply (HiKorea or In-Person)

Option 1: Online via HiKorea

  1. Go to  HiKorea
  2. Log in using your digital certificate or PASS verification.
  3. Select Application → Extension of Stay (체류기간 연장).
  4. Complete the online form and upload required documents.
  5. Pay the extension fee online and submit.
  6. Wait for SMS or email notification of approval.
💡 Tip The HiKorea system is available in English and can save you a trip to the immigration office if your documents are complete.

Option 2: Visit the Immigration Office

  1. Make a visit reservation on HiKorea under “Visit Reservation (방문예약).”
  2. Visit the designated immigration office with all documents.
  3. Submit your application, fingerprints, and payment.
  4. Receive a receipt indicating your extension decision date.
Example: An E-2 visa holder can extend for another year by submitting a new contract, ARC, passport, and employer’s business registration at the same immigration office.

Required Documents

  • Completed Extension Application Form
  • Passport and ARC (Alien Registration Card)
  • Proof of Residence (rental contract or housing confirmation)
  • Employment or enrollment certificate (depending on visa type)
  • Business registration certificate (for employer-sponsored visas)
  • Application fee: ₩60,000 (online card or revenue stamp)
⚠️ Note Immigration officers may request additional documents depending on your visa category.

Fees and Processing Time

  • Fee: ₩60,000 for most visas (payable online or via stamp at the office)
  • Processing Time: Usually 2–3 weeks, depending on application volume
  • Pickup/Delivery: If extension requires new ARC printing, you’ll receive pickup instructions by SMS
💡 Tip Apply early to avoid last-minute congestion at immigration offices—especially around university semesters or visa expiration peaks.

After Approval

  • Check your new stay validity date on HiKorea or your ARC card.
  • Keep a copy of your approval notice for records or employment verification.
  • If your visa is linked to work or study, update your employer or school with your new expiry date.
  • If your ARC card is reissued, keep your old one until the new card arrives.
Example: A student on a D-2 visa can extend their stay for one more semester by submitting proof of enrollment and housing documents through HiKorea.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q. Can I extend my visa after it expires?
    A. No. You must apply before expiration. Overstaying may result in fines and affect future visa renewals.
  2. Q. Can I extend my visa online without visiting the office?
    A. Yes, if your visa type supports online extension and your documents are valid. Otherwise, you’ll be asked to visit in person.
  3. Q. How early can I apply for an extension?
    A. You can apply up to 3 months before your visa expires, but 1 month in advance is the usual recommendation.
  4. Q. What if I move during my visa extension process?
    A. Report your address change within 14 days at your district office (주민센터) or via HiKorea, even if your extension is pending.

Notes

Note. The immigration office in Korea enforces strict deadlines for visa extensions. Always apply early, upload complete documents, and keep your ARC and passport valid during the process.

Explore the Series

More step-by-step guides for foreigners in Korea. Browse them on the hub, or jump directly below.

🌏 View Full Series Hub

Comments

Post a Comment