South Korea marriage visa (F-6-1)

The marriage must be completed and registered both in Korea and in the foreign spouse's country before you apply. Check that the marriage date on your country's certificate matches the registration date in the Korean marriage relationship certificate. The Ministry of Justice checks the Korean spouse's income, housing, the genuineness of the relationship and the couple's ability to communicate, normally shown by TOPIK level 1 or a recognised Korean course, with exceptions.

The 2026 F-6 checklists of Korean missions set the Korean spouse's minimum annual income by household size: KRW 25,195,752 for two people, KRW 32,154,216 for three, KRW 38,968,428 for four, KRW 45,340,314 for five, KRW 51,335,712 for six and KRW 57,090,900 for seven, plus KRW 5,755,188 for each additional person. Income is proven with official income certificates.

The foreign spouse applies in person at the Korean embassy or consulate responsible for their place of residence, following its appointment rules, and sorts the documents in the order of the mission's checklist. The mission may ask for translations, an interview or extra documents during the review, which usually takes a month or more. False statements or documents can lead to refusal, an entry ban of five years or more and criminal penalties under the Immigration Act.

Register within 90 days at the immigration office. Extensions for F-6 holders cost KRW 30,000 instead of the standard KRW 60,000, and a grant of F-6 status in Korea costs KRW 40,000. Spouses of Korean nationals who have lived in Korea for two years or more can qualify for permanent residence (F-5).