If you are living and working in South Korea as a foreign professional and want more freedom than employer-sponsored visas allow, the F-2-7 visa is one of the most realistic long-term options.
The F-2-7 visa is not limited to U.S. citizens. It is available to qualified foreign residents from English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and many others.
This 2026 guide explains who qualifies, how the points system works, what documents are required, and how to apply step by step, including a practical way to estimate your score.
Who Can Apply for the F-2-7 Visa?
The F-2-7 visa is designed for skilled foreign professionals who already have experience living in Korea.
Typical applicants include:
- E-7 or E-2 visa holders
- Graduates of Korean universities
- Professionals with stable income and Korean language ability
Nationality is not a deciding factor. What matters is whether you meet the residency, income, and point requirements set by Korean Immigration.
How the F-2-7 Points System Works
To apply for the F-2-7 visa, applicants generally need at least 80 points.
Points are calculated based on:
- Age
- Education level
- Annual income (relative to Korea’s GNI)
- Korean language proficiency (TOPIK)
- Bonus points (such as KIIP completion or Korean degrees)
Instead of manually adding points and risking mistakes, you can estimate your total using our F-2-7 Visa Points Calculator (2026), which is designed as a quick self-check tool before applying.
Minimum Requirements to Apply
Reaching 80 points does not automatically guarantee approval.
Applicants must also:
- Hold a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Submit documents proving each claimed point
- Meet the latest immigration guidelines at the time of application
Final decisions are made by immigration officers based on submitted evidence.
Required Documents for the F-2-7 Visa
While requirements can vary slightly, most applicants need:
- Passport and ARC
- Proof of employment and income
- Academic degree certificates
- Korean language test results (if applicable)
- Supporting documents for bonus points
Missing or inconsistent documents are a common reason for delays or rejection.
Where and How to Apply
Applications are handled by Korean Immigration, and official procedures are published on HiKorea, the government portal for foreign residents.
You can review the latest guidelines and notices here: HiKorea
Applications are usually submitted by appointment at your local immigration office.
After Approval: What Changes with an F-2-7 Visa?
Once approved, daily life in Korea becomes significantly easier.
Many long-term residents find it helpful to review how to open a Korean bank account as a foreigner, since F-2 status often reduces administrative friction with financial institutions.
The F-2-7 visa also allows more flexibility when changing employers or renewing contracts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming the visa is limited to certain nationalities
- Claiming points without proper documentation
- Misunderstanding income requirements tied to GNI
- Applying without checking the latest immigration updates
Using a calculator helps with planning, but official review always depends on documents.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Can I apply for an F-2-7 visa while in Korea on a tourist visa?
No. Tourist visas do not qualify as long-term residence status for F-2-7 applications.
Does the F-2-7 visa allow me to start my own business?
The F-2-7 offers more flexibility than employer-sponsored visas, but some business activities may still require additional registration.
Is the F-2-7 visa only for Americans?
No. The F-2-7 visa is available to foreign professionals of any nationality, including citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and other countries.
Have Questions About Your Situation?
If you are unsure whether you qualify or what documents you need, you can contact Korea Guide to ask questions and get clarification before applying.