What visa can the spouse and children of a D-9 (Trade and Business Management) visa holder use to live in Korea together?

The spouse and minor children of a D-9 holder can live together with them on an Accompanying (F-3) visa. This applies to holders of statuses from Culture and Arts (D-1) to Specific Activities (E-7), and D-9 is included. Only Technical Training (D-3) is excluded.

Who is eligible?

• Spouse: the legal spouse of the D-9 holder
• Minor child: an unmarried child (a child who has no spouse)

Good to know

• The length of stay usually follows the period given to the D-9 holder. D-9 is granted for up to 2 years at a time.
• When you apply, you usually need documents that prove the family relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.) and the D-9 holder's Alien Registration Card.
• If you have not yet entered Korea, you may need a tuberculosis test certificate. Check first whether your country is on the list.
• A re-entry permit is not needed if you have finished alien registration and return within 1 year of the day you leave Korea. If your remaining stay period is shorter than 1 year, you must return within that period.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• In principle, F-3 holders cannot work. To work, you must first get a permit for activities outside your status of stay.
• D-9 spouses are not clearly listed among those allowed to work (such as professional workers E-6 and E-7, or high-value investors). If you plan to work, check with Immigration first.
• Studying at a regular school such as an elementary, middle, or high school or a university does not need a separate permit.

You can check how to apply on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr), or call the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) at 1345. Documents may differ a little by country. If you tell me whether your family has not yet entered Korea or is already in Korea, I can explain the right steps.