What are the requirements for general naturalization?

Adult foreigners who have lived in Korea continuously for at least 5 years can apply for general naturalization. You must also hold a residence status that allows permanent residence¹².

The 7 requirements set by law

1. You must have had your address in Korea continuously for at least 5 years.
2. You must have a residence status that allows you to live in Korea permanently.
3. You must be an adult under the Korean Civil Act (민법).
4. You must be of good conduct, such as obeying the law.
5. You must be able to support yourself. You can live on your own assets or skills, or depend on a family member you live with.
6. You must have basic knowledge, such as Korean language ability and an understanding of Korean customs.
7. The Minister of Justice (법무부장관) must find that you will not harm national security, order, or public welfare¹.

How the 5-year residence period is counted

• It is counted as the period of continuous stay after you entered legally and completed alien registration².
• If you leave with a re-entry permit and return within the permitted period, your stays before and after are added together. However, the time you spent abroad is not counted².
• If you could not extend your period of stay, left briefly, and came back with a visa within 1 month, the stays are also added together².

Examples of documents proving your ability to support yourself

• A bank balance certificate of at least 3,000만 원 in your name or the name of a family member you live with
• Proof of owning real estate worth at least 3,000만 원
• A certificate of employment or a certificate of expected employment. A financial guarantee is not accepted³.

How to apply

• Apply at the nationality desk of the Immigration Office (출입국·외국인관서). Nationality services require a prior visit reservation².
• The fee is 30만 원³.
• During the review, you may be asked to attend and state your opinion or to submit materials. A field investigation of your residence and a criminal record check may also be carried out⁴.

💡 Helpful information

If you are married to a Korean or have lived in Korea for 3 years or more, you may be eligible for simplified naturalization. Simplified naturalization has its own requirements². Meeting the requirements does not guarantee approval of naturalization. For final confirmation, check HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or the Foreigner Comprehensive Information Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).