Overview of the F-6 Visa Application for Russians Married to Koreans
A Russian national married to a Korean citizen is currently living in South Korea on an F-4 visa and is looking to switch to an F-6 marriage visa. This article provides an overview of the necessary steps and requirements to make this transition.
Understanding the F-6 Visa
The F-6 visa is designed for foreign spouses of South Korean citizens and requires proof of the genuine nature of the marital relationship. Additionally, foreign spouses must meet certain residency requirements and demonstrate a basic level of integration into South Korean society. It’s worth noting that Russia is not classified as a mandatory country for international marriage counseling programs, which may simplify the application process compared to applicants from certain other nations.
Application Requirements for Russian Nationals Seeking an F-6 Visa
1. Basic Eligibility Criteria
As a foreign national, a Russian applicant must fulfill the following basic requirements to be eligible for an F-6 marriage visa:
- Proof of Genuine Marriage: There must be a bona fide marriage to a South Korean citizen.
- Clean Criminal Record: No prior criminal activity should be reported, and a crime-free certificate may be required from the applicant’s home country.
- Communication Skills: The applicant must possess basic communication skills in Korean.
- Financial Independence: Applicants need to demonstrate the ability to support themselves financially, either through income or assets.
2. International Marriage Counseling Program Exemption
Since Russia is not on the list of countries that require participation in the international marriage counseling program, the South Korean partner does not need to complete this mandatory program. This requirement applies only to partners from specific countries, such as Vietnam, the Philippines, China, Thailand, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan.
3. Korean Language Proficiency Requirements
If a foreign spouse is residing in South Korea under an F-4 visa for over a year, they may not need to take the Korean language proficiency test (TOPIK) or provide proof of language courses to satisfy the communication ability requirement. Proof of residency, such as a certificate of entry and exit or a signed personal statement, will suffice to establish the one-year stay.
4. Conditions for Waiving the Crime-Free Certificate
Typically, foreign applicants must submit documentation proving they have no criminal history. However, the submission of such a certificate can be waived under certain conditions:
- For minors under 14 years of age.
- If the applicant has been living abroad without any residency history for more than six months.
- If the applicant has lived legally in South Korea for over 10 years.
- If the head of immigration acknowledges that obtaining the certificate is practically impossible.
5. Required Documentation
Here is a list of the necessary documents for the visa application:
- Application form for visa issuance or change of residency status
- Marriage certificate (reflecting South Korean spouse)
- Family relationship certificate (reflecting South Korean spouse)
- A copy of the foreign national’s residence card or passport
- Crime-free certificate (if not exempt)
- Documentation supporting Korean language skills (if applicable)
- Proof of income or financial stability
- Documents related to residence (such as lease agreements)
- One recent photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Depending on individual circumstances, additional documents may be required.
Application Process
The following steps outline the application procedure for the F-6 marriage visa:
- Prepare necessary documents and complete the marriage registration.
- Submit the application form and supporting documents to the appropriate immigration office or embassy.
- Attend an interview or in-person inspection if required.
- Await a decision on your application.
- Proceed with the visa issuance and foreign registration process.
The processing time usually ranges from one to three months, depending on the genuineness of the marriage and the applicant’s residency history.
Important Considerations
While obtaining an F-6 marriage visa involves thorough preparation for a Russian spouse, it’s important to note the absence of an international marriage counseling program requirement could streamline the process. Additionally, the need for a crime-free certificate and language proficiency documentation will vary based on personal background and duration of stay.
All documents must be accurately translated and certified, or confirmed with an apostille from the local government before submission. It is advisable to review the latest guidelines from Hi Korea and the immigration office prior to applying.
We hope this article serves as a helpful resource for foreign nationals navigating the process of securing a marriage visa or for Russian spouses planning their visa application in South Korea.
Disclaimer
This information was last updated in May 2025 and is provided for general guidance. Individual circumstances may vary, and we recommend personalized consultations through our 1:1 consultation form.