Can I change from F-1 (Visiting/Cohabiting) to another status of stay?

Yes, in some cases you can. But the change does not happen automatically. It is approved only in some cases after a strict review.

Basic rules

• In principle, you must leave Korea, get a visa for the new status of stay, and enter again¹.
• If you can meet the requirements of the new status of stay while in Korea, you can change it inside Korea after a review¹.
• You must get approval first before you start any activity that fits the new status of stay¹.

How to apply

1. Check the requirements and documents for the status you want on the status-by-status guide of HiKorea (하이코리아)¹.
2. You or your agent submit the documents to the Immigration Office (출입국관리사무소) that has authority over the area where you live¹.
3. Usually, you make a visit reservation on HiKorea before you go.

Common examples

• If you married a Korean citizen → Marriage Immigrant (F-6)¹
• If you enter a university in Korea, people usually consider changing to Study Abroad (D-2).
• For work statuses of stay, the requirements are different for each status. You need to check them separately.

⚠️ Things to be careful about

• F-1 is a status of stay where you stay on the condition that you do not work². If you work before you get approval for the change, it is illegal employment.
• The result can be different depending on your F-1 sub-type and your personal situation. Apply early, before your period of stay ends.
• Approval is not guaranteed. For final confirmation, use HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).
• If your period of stay has already passed, you were refused, or the change of status is complicated, get a K-VISA AI Administrative Agent consultation (the visa service in the app).