What happens to an F-3 accompanying family member if the main resident leaves Korea or gets divorced?

Usually, there is no longer a basis to keep F-3. So you need to change to another status or prepare to leave Korea. F-3 is a status you get because you are the spouse or minor child of the main resident. But if the main resident only leaves for a short trip or business trip, it does not matter.

It depends on the situation

• When the main resident leaves for a short time: A person with a foreigner registration does not need a re-entry permit if they come back within 1 year from the day they leave. If the remaining stay period is shorter than 1 year, they must come back within that period. If they come back within this time, F-3 is not affected.
• When the main resident leaves for good (returns home, visa expires, loses status): There is no longer a basis for the family member to keep F-3. Usually, the stay period can be shortened or the person can become subject to departure.
• In case of divorce (spouse): After divorce, you are no longer a spouse. So the spouse's F-3 is not kept.
• In case of divorce (child): If the child keeps living in Korea with the parent who is the main resident, the child can usually keep F-3 while still a minor.

If you want to keep staying in Korea

• Apply for a change of status to another status you qualify for (study, work, etc.). You must apply before your stay period ends. The fee is 100,000 KRW.
• If you have no suitable status, leave Korea within your stay period. This way, you will not have a disadvantage when you come to Korea again.
• If your situation is complicated, such as with property matters or children, get a consultation from the K-VISA AI administrative agent (visa service in the app).

Please check once more with HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (외국인종합안내센터, 1345) for the exact processing rules.