What visa can the family of an H-2 working visit compatriot use to come to Korea?

H-2 has been merged into F-4, so first check whether the person can change to F-4. Family members of an H-2 compatriot usually enter as accompanying family (F-3) for a spouse and minor children. Parents are a problem under visiting and residing (F-1). This is explained below.

Visa by family member

• Spouse and minor children → Accompanying family (F-3). The family of a person with H-2 status is the basic target group.
• After the H-2 holder changes to F-4, the family status changes. The spouse and minor children of an F-4 compatriot receive visiting and residing (F-1-9).
• Parents of an F-4 compatriot → eligible for visiting and residing (F-1).
• Parents and spouses of international students (D-2) were a type of relative who could apply for H-2 themselves. New issuance of this status has stopped, so check under F-4.

How to apply

1. As a rule, the visa must be issued outside Korea. Apply at the Korean embassy or consulate in the country where the family lives.
2. The documents for a visa application are usually as follows.

• Basic documents (visa application form, passport, 1 photo, fee)
• Documents of the main status holder — for H-2, a copy of the Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증) or the visa issuance details; for F-4, the Domestic Residence Report Card (국내거소신고증)
• Documents proving the family relationship — they show the marriage or birth relationship

1. If you stay in Korea for more than 90 days after entry, register as a foreigner within 90 days of the entry date.
2. The period of stay can only be extended within the period of stay of the main status holder.

⚠️ Points to note

Changing to another status inside Korea is allowed only in limited cases. First think about entering with a visa issued abroad. Each overseas mission may add or remove documents, so check first with the mission where you will apply.

For exact details, check HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Immigration Contact Center (외국인종합안내센터, 1345).