Can I change from an F-3 dependent visa to another visa status?

Yes, you can. In particular, an F-3 holder who is the spouse of a professional (E-1 to E-7) can change to a professional visa status. But you must meet the requirements of the new status yourself.

To change to a professional status, you need these

• Who can apply: F-3 holders who are spouses of holders of Professor (E-1) to Professional Occupation (E-5), Arts and Performance (E-6, except E-6-2), or Specific Activities (E-7) status
• Eligible fields: all jobs that fall under E-1 to E-5, E-6 (except E-6-2), and E-7
• Basic documents (application form, passport, registration card, photo, fee)
• Employment contract and business registration certificate — proof of the contract with the company where you will work
• Degree certificate, and qualification certificate or career certificate — proof that you meet the education and career requirements for that job
• Employment recommendation from the head of the relevant ministry (주무부처 장), or documents showing why the hire is needed
• Letter of identity guarantee (신원보증서)

The fee for a change of visa status is 100,000 KRW. The review checks whether you actually meet the education, career, and salary requirements of the job you want. For example, for E-7 the standards for that job must be checked separately.

Cases where you do not have to change your status

• Permission to engage in activities not covered by your status (체류자격 외 활동허가): You can work while keeping your F-3. Spouses of professionals (E-1 to E-5, E-6 except E-6-2, E-7, including E-7-4) can work in professional jobs. The permit period is up to 1 year, within your own period of stay.
• Studying at school: Studying at a regular educational institution, such as an elementary, middle, or high school or a university, does not need separate permission within your period of stay.

⚠️ Please note

Do not start work before you get permission. Get the change permit or the permit for activities outside your status first. Changing to another status, such as Study (D-2) or permanent residence, requires checking the requirements of that status separately. Results can differ a lot depending on your situation, so we recommend K-VISA AI administrative agent consultation (Visa Service in the app).

Apply on HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or at the immigration office for your address. Please check the details once more by calling 1345.