Can I change from C-3 (Short-term Visit) to another status of stay while in Korea?

In principle, it is difficult. However, where the guidelines for a specific status allow it, a limited change may be possible inside Korea.

Basic principle

• To change your status of stay, you must in principle leave Korea, get a visa for the new status, and enter again¹.
• If you can meet the requirements of the new status while in Korea, a change may be approved as an exception after a strict review¹.
• C-3 is a status for which changes and extensions are generally restricted. It is especially hard if your purpose of stay is unclear or illegal employment is suspected².

Examples where a change in Korea is possible

• Study (D-2): The guidelines include short-term stayers as eligible for change. However, some countries and statuses are excluded².
• Investment (D-8), Marriage Migrant (F-6), etc.¹
• Short-term Business (C-3-4) for Chilean nationals: To stay more than 6 months, you must change to D-7, D-8 or D-9³.

Group Tourism (C-3-2) is stricter

• A change is approved only for unavoidable reasons, such as having no return flight or applying for permanent residence or naturalization³.

How to apply

1. You must get approval before you start a new activity⁴.
2. You or your agent go to the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인관서) with jurisdiction over your address. Submit the application form together with the documents required for the status¹⁵.
3. If approved, a permit mark or sticker is put in your passport. If you receive a Foreign Resident Registration Card (외국인등록증), issuing the card replaces this⁵.

⚠️ Things to note

• Starting a new activity, such as working, before approval can be a violation of your stay conditions.
• Requirements and documents differ by status. Be sure to check HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Immigration Contact Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345.
• If your application was denied or your situation is complicated, use the K-VISA AI administrative agent consultation (Visa Service in the app).