How Foreigners Holding an F-6 Visa Can Acquire South Korean Citizenship
For foreigners residing in South Korea with an F-6 Visa (marriage immigrant visa), the process of obtaining South Korean nationality involves several steps. Today, we’ll provide a detailed guide on the nationality acquisition process and the necessary documentation.
1. Ways to Obtain South Korean Nationality
Holders of an F-6 visa can typically achieve citizenship through either the simplified naturalization or the regular naturalization processes.
Simplified Naturalization (While Maintaining Marital Status)
Marriage immigrants can acquire nationality through a more straightforward process called simplified naturalization, provided they meet the following criteria:
- Reside in South Korea for at least two years after marriage, or have been married for three years and lived in South Korea for at least one year.
- Maintain the marital relationship with their spouse.
- Demonstrate the ability to be financially independent in South Korea.
- Possess basic Korean language skills (completion of the Social Integration Program or passing a Korean language test).
Regular Naturalization (In Cases of Divorce or Spousal Death)
If the marital relationship has ended, one must apply for citizenship through the regular naturalization process. The requirements include:
- Continuous residence in South Korea for five years or more.
- Financial independence.
- Basic Korean language skills.
- No criminal record.
In cases where the divorce was not the applicant’s fault, exceptions may apply allowing for simplified naturalization.
2. Necessary Documents for Nationality Acquisition
To apply for nationality, various documents are required. Here’s a list of the basic application documents:
- Naturalization application form
- Copies of your passport and alien registration card
- Marriage certificate and family relation certificate
- Birth certificate
- Resident registration excerpt (in spouse’s name)
- Proof of income for the past three years (such as pay slips or tax payment certificates)
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Proof of Korean language ability (completion certificate from the Social Integration Program or Korean language test results)
- For divorcees: divorce decree and related documents for alimony/child support
- In the event of a spouse’s death: death certificate
3. Nationality Acquisition Application Process
Acquiring nationality involves the following steps:
- Visit the Immigration Office and submit the application form.
- Undergo a document review and interview (which includes a Korean language and basic knowledge test).
- Receive a decision on naturalization approval.
- Obtain the naturalization certificate and report citizenship.
- Renounce foreign nationality and finalize South Korean nationality acquisition.
The review process typically takes around six months to a year.
4. Important Considerations
- You must renounce your foreign nationality upon naturalization (dual nationality is generally not allowed).
- If the marital relationship ends, you need to meet the requirements for regular naturalization.
- Completion of the Social Integration Program (KIIP) exempts you from the Korean language and basic knowledge tests.
Conclusion
For foreigners living in South Korea with an F-6 visa, acquiring nationality is certainly a multi-step process that requires meeting various criteria. However, with adequate preparation and an understanding of the procedures, citizenship is attainable. For more detailed information, visit HiKorea or consult at the Ministry of Justice Immigration Office.
This content was last updated in February 2025, and policy changes may occur. For personalized consultations, please visit our 1:1 Consultation Board.