Parental Visa Issues for D-10 Visa Holders: Is There a Solution?

There are numerous inquiries regarding whether the parents of women staying in South Korea on job-seeking visas (D-10 visa holders) can change their residency status without leaving the country. Additionally, if they must depart, can they apply for an accompanying family visa (F-1)? In this article, we will explore the solutions and legal requirements surrounding this issue.

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Is It Possible to Change Residency Status in South Korea?

Parent’s Residency Status Change: Not Possible

Generally, foreigners holding short-term visas (like C-3) in South Korea face significant challenges when attempting to switch to long-term residency visas (D or F series). Specifically, parents of D-10 visa holders are not permitted to change their residency status while in the country.

Exceptions for Changing Residency Status

While it’s theoretically possible for some to change their residency status through a review by the Ministry of Justice, current policies make it nearly impossible for parents of D-10 visa holders to transition to an F-1 (visiting family) status while still in Korea. Therefore, applying for a new visa after leaving the country would be the most practical approach.

Can Parents Apply for an F-1 Visa After Leaving?

General Ineligibility for F-1 Visa from D-10 Visa Holders

Typically, the F-1 (visiting family) visa is granted to the parents of D-2 (student) visa holders. However, D-10 visa holders are not eligible to sponsor their parents for this visa. Consequently, even if parents apply for an F-1 visa at a South Korean embassy after leaving the country, the likelihood of approval is quite low.

Are There Any Solutions?

Given the current situation, here are some alternative approaches:

Parent’s F-1 Application After Child’s Residency Status Change
To qualify for an F-1 visa, parents need their child to switch to either a D-2 (student) visa or an F-2 (resident) visa. If the child successfully obtains an F-2 visa, the chances of the parents receiving an F-1 visa increase significantly. Even if the child has an F-6 (marriage immigrant) visa, parents can accompany them on an F-1 visa.
Considering the G-1 (Other) Visa
If parents have specific circumstances, such as health issues, it might be feasible to apply for a G-1 (other) visa on an exceptional basis. However, note that G-1 visas are granted under very limited circumstances and require scrutiny from the Ministry of Justice.

Conclusion: What Are the Realistic Alternatives?

Currently, changing a parent’s residency status in South Korea is not an option.
D-10 visa holders are unable to sponsor their parents for an F-1 visa.
If the child switches to an F-2 visa, it opens up possibilities for the parents to obtain an F-1 visa.
As it stands, the most pragmatic strategy is for the parents to leave the country and apply for a new visa.

Recommended Actions

Contact the immigration office to verify the potential for changing your child’s residency status.
It seems most feasible for parents to apply for an F-1 visa through the South Korean embassy after departing the country.
Once the child transitions to a long-term visa, the likelihood of the parents securing an F-1 visa will increase significantly.

Please note that this information is based on data available as of February 2025 and is intended as general guidance, which may not account for individual circumstances. For personalized consultations, please refer to 1:1 Consultation Page.