Can I change from D-9 (Trade Management) to another status of stay?

Yes, in some cases you can change from D-9 to another status of stay. But the basic rule is to leave Korea, get a new visa, and enter again. A change inside Korea is allowed only in limited cases, after a strict review, and only if you already meet the requirements of the new status in Korea.

What to know before you change

• Do not start activities of the new status before you get permission. Before you start the new activity, you must get permission for a change of status of stay from the immigration office (출입국·외국인관서) that covers your address.
• Requirements and documents are different for each status. For example, if you married a Korean citizen, the review is for marriage immigration (F-6). If you invest, it is for corporate investment (D-8). If you want to work, it is for specific activities (E-7). Each is reviewed separately.
• First check the requirements and documents for the status you want on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr), in the 'Guide Manual by Status of Stay' (체류자격별 안내 매뉴얼).

💡 Good to know

• The fee for a change of status of stay is 100,000 KRW. A change to permanent residence (F-5) costs 200,000 KRW. A change to corporate investment (D-8) is free.
• If only your workplace (organization) changes, it is not a change of status. D-9 is not subject to permission for changing or adding a workplace. It is handled by a report of changes to alien registration details (외국인등록사항 변경신고).
• If you move within the same affiliated company, you submit documents such as a dispatch order or a certificate of employment issued by the head office.

Tell me which status of stay you want to change to. I will explain the requirements and documents for that status. Please check the details again on HiKorea or by calling 1345.