Korea F-6 Marriage Visa Guide (2026)
The F-6 is Korea's residence visa for the foreign spouse of a Korean national. Beyond a valid marriage, it asks for a minimum household income, basic Korean ability, and proof your relationship is genuine — with important exemptions when a couple has a child. This page lays out the 2026 requirements honestly, and points you to the official sources that decide each case.
Who the F-6 visa is for
The F-6 covers the foreign spouse of a Korean national and a few related situations. The sub-types below are an orientation — your exact category and eligibility are set by immigration.
F-6-1 — Spouse of a Korean national
F-6-2 — Raising a child of a Korean national
F-6-3 — After a marriage ends
The income requirement (2026)
The Korean inviting spouse generally must meet a minimum income tied to the GNI-based standard, which varies by household size and is updated each year. Reported 2026 guidance puts the 2-person household threshold in the mid-twenty-million KRW range, with the benchmark updated effective April 1, 2026. If the inviter's income falls short, it can sometimes be combined with the foreign spouse's Korea-earned income or other household members' income, and a portion of net assets may be converted toward the requirement. Because these figures move every year, treat any number here as a ballpark — confirm the exact current standard officially.
| Item | Reported 2026 detail |
|---|---|
| Basis | GNI-linked minimum income, by household size |
| Update date | Standard updated effective April 1, 2026 |
| Flexibility | Household income combination; partial net-asset conversion |
Exact thresholds are set officially and change annually. Verify on HiKorea or by calling 1345 before relying on a figure.
The Korean language requirement
Applicants are usually asked to show basic Korean proficiency — for example a TOPIK Level 1 certificate or completion of KIIP Level 2, with some alternative routes. The aim is to support communication and settlement. Requirements and accepted proofs change, so confirm the current options for your case.
Genuineness & the interview
The F-6 process assesses whether the marriage is genuine. This can include an interview and supporting evidence — photos together over time, communication history, and proof of a shared life. Procedures vary by embassy and immigration office. Prepare honestly and check the specific requirements for your case.
Child exemptions
This is an important relief. Reportedly, if the couple has a common biological child (or the foreign spouse is pregnant), the Ministry of Justice may waive the financial and language requirements to prevent family separation. The precise conditions of any waiver are set officially — confirm your specific situation with immigration rather than assuming.
After you arrive: the Residence Card
If you stay over 90 days you must separately register and obtain a Residence Card at your district immigration office through HiKorea. See our Residence Card (ARC) registration guide for that step.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the F-6?
The foreign spouse of a Korean national (F-6-1), plus related categories for raising a Korean national's child (F-6-2) and certain cases after a marriage ends (F-6-3). You generally need a valid registered marriage and to meet income, language, and genuineness checks. Confirm your case officially.
What's the 2026 income requirement?
A GNI-linked minimum that varies by household size, updated effective April 1, 2026 (reported 2-person threshold in the mid-twenty-million KRW range). Income can sometimes be combined or supplemented from assets. Verify the exact current figure.
Is there a Korean language requirement?
Generally yes — basic proficiency such as TOPIK Level 1 or KIIP Level 2, with alternatives. Exemptions can apply, e.g. with a shared child. Verify the current requirement.
Do income/language rules apply if we have a child?
Reportedly, a common biological child (or pregnancy) may lead the Ministry of Justice to waive financial and language requirements to prevent family separation. Confirm the exact conditions officially.
Is there an interview?
Yes — the genuineness of the marriage is assessed, which can include an interview and supporting evidence. Procedures vary by office; check your case.