How to Stay in South Korea for More than 90 Days
South Korea is a beautiful country with a rich culture that attracts many tourists. However, if you want to stay for more than 90 days, you need to obtain a visa or take advantage of certain exemptions. In this article, we will explore the different options available for those wishing to stay in South Korea for an extended period of time.
Understanding the 90-Day Rule
South Korea has a 90-day rule that allows tourists from certain countries to visit without a visa. The rule applies to nationals from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries. This means that you can visit South Korea for up to 90 days without needing a visa. However, if you wish to stay longer, you will need to obtain a visa.
Types of Visas
South Korea offers different types of visas depending on your purpose of visit. The most common types of visas are tourist, business, and study visas. Tourist visas are issued for up to 90 days and can be extended once while in the country. Business and study visas are issued for longer periods and require additional documentation.
Applying for a Visa
To apply for a visa, you will need to provide certain documents such as your passport, application form, and proof of financial support. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for. It is recommended that you apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Working Visas
If you plan on working in South Korea, you will need to obtain a working visa. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a South Korean employer. The employer will need to provide certain documents such as a work contract and proof of their company’s registration in South Korea.
Marriage Visas
If you are married to a South Korean citizen, you can apply for a marriage visa. This visa allows you to stay in the country for up to two years and can be extended. To be eligible, you must provide proof of your marriage and meet certain financial requirements.
Long-Term Residency
If you plan on staying in South Korea for an extended period of time, you may be eligible for long-term residency. This status is granted to individuals who have lived in South Korea for five or more consecutive years. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria such as having a clean criminal record and being able to support yourself financially.
Exemptions
There are certain exemptions that allow individuals to stay in South Korea for longer periods without needing a visa. For example, if you are a spouse or child of a South Korean citizen, you may be eligible for an F-3 visa. Additionally, some countries have special agreements with South Korea that allow their citizens to stay for longer periods without needing a visa.
Leaving and Returning
If you need to leave South Korea during your stay, it is important to note that your 90-day period will reset upon re-entry. This means that if you leave after 60 days and return two weeks later, you will still have 30 days left on your initial 90-day period.
Overstaying
If you overstay your visa in South Korea, you may face penalties such as fines, deportation, or being banned from entering the country in the future. It is important to ensure that you have the proper documentation and follow the rules for staying in the country.
Conclusion
Staying in South Korea for an extended period of time requires careful planning and adherence to visa regulations. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or study purposes, there are different types of visas available to suit your needs. If you plan on working or marrying a South Korean citizen, there are specific visas designed for those situations. By understanding the rules and regulations, you can enjoy your stay in South Korea without any issues.
How can I stay longer than 90 days in South Korea?
If you are planning to stay in South Korea for more than 90 days after entering on a visa, you must register your stay at a local Immigration Office. This involves submitting required documents such as your passport and a completed application form which can be downloaded online.
How long can I stay in Korea as a US citizen?
A U.S. citizen with a valid passport can use a K-ETA to visit the Republic of Korea for up to 90 days for tourism or visiting.
Can I stay in South Korea for 6 months?
South Korea has a tourist visa policy that allows visitors to stay for 30 days to 6 months depending on their nationality. However, from September 2021 onwards, all visitors must obtain an approved South Korea ETA regardless of their intended length of stay. This policy will be in effect until February 17, 2023.
How can I extend my stay in South Korea?
Extending your visa is usually possible, but there are some exceptions. To apply for a visa extension, you must visit the Seoul immigration office. It is recommended to apply for the extension at least two months before your current visa expires if you plan to do so.
What happens if you overstay in South Korea?
Individuals who exceed the expiration date of their South Korean visa may face penalties for each day they remain in the country. The daily fine amount can differ significantly and will continue to accumulate until the fine is paid and the visa is resolved. Generally, individuals can settle the issue when they leave South Korea.
How much is the fine for overstaying in South Korea?
Individuals who reside in a country illegally may face penalties, with fines ranging from KRW 1,000,000 to KRW 20,000,000 depending on the length of their illegal stay (less than one month to three years or more). Employers who hire illegal residents may also be penalized with a maximum fine of KRW 20,000,000 or three years in prison. This information was last updated in December 2019.
Renewing Your Visa
If you wish to stay in South Korea for a longer period of time than your visa allows, you will need to renew it. It is important to note that not all types of visas can be renewed, so it is best to check with the South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm. To renew your visa, you will need to submit an application and provide any necessary documents.
Language Learning Visas
South Korea offers language learning visas for those who wish to study the Korean language. These visas are issued for one year and can be extended for up to two years. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a language program at a recognized institution in South Korea. Language learning visas have specific requirements and documentation that must be submitted with your application.
Investor Visas
If you plan on investing in a business in South Korea, you may be eligible for an investor visa. This type of visa requires a minimum investment amount and has specific requirements related to the business. Investor visas are issued for up to five years and can be renewed.
Health Insurance
When staying in South Korea for an extended period of time, it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage. Some types of visas require proof of health insurance as part of the application process. It is recommended that you purchase health insurance before arriving in South Korea, as medical expenses can be costly without insurance.
Final Thoughts
Staying in South Korea for an extended period of time can be a rewarding experience. Whether you are studying, working or simply enjoying the culture, there are different types of visas available to suit your needs. It is important to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the South Korean government to avoid any issues with your visa status. With proper planning and documentation, you can enjoy a longer stay in this beautiful country.