Important Update: New F-3 Visa Requirements for South Korea Effective 2025

Planning to move to South Korea with your family?

If you're applying for or renewing an F-3 dependent visa, new rules and document requirements have just been announced, and they take effect immediately.

It’s important to plan ahead and ensure you meet the updated conditions to avoid delays or rejections. Here’s what you need to know.

Updated Documentation Requirements for the F-3 Visa

Effective immediately, all applicants for the F-3 dependent visa must provide apostille or legalised marriage and birth certificates.

• A marriage certificate is required for spouses.

• A birth certificate is required for dependent children.

While these documents were previously optional, they are now mandatory for both new applications and renewals.

Additionally, South Korean authorities may request proof of residence for family members, mirroring the documentation requirements already in place for the primary visa holder.

Simultaneous Renewal Requirement for F-3 Visas

Effective immediately, F-3 visa renewals must now be processed at the same time as the primary visa holder’s renewal.

Families are required to coordinate their renewal schedules to ensure continuous legal status and avoid any visa gaps during their stay in South Korea.

No More Status Conversion After Arrival

Also effective immediately, family members entering South Korea on short-term visas or under visa waiver programs are no longer permitted to convert to F-3 visa status after arrival.

All accompanying family members must now obtain the correct visa type prior to entry, eliminating the previous flexibility to adjust status once inside the country. Careful pre-travel planning is now essential to avoid disruptions.

Proof of Financial Stability Requirement (Effective July 1, 2025)

Beginning July 1, 2025, all F-3 visa applicants must submit proof of financial support as part of their application.

Applicants will be required to provide a bank statement showing the average balance for the past six months, with specific financial thresholds determined by family size.It is strongly recommended to begin preparing financial documentation well ahead of time to meet this new requirement.

Final Reminders

These changes aim to tighten immigration controls and standardise documentation processes for dependents.

Families and companies sponsoring foreign workers should expect longer lead times when preparing F-3 visa applications and renewals.

At AllVisa, we’re ready to help guide you through these new requirements smoothly.