Korea F-6 Marriage Visa to F-5 Permanent Residency (2026)
If you live in Korea on an F-6 marriage visa, permanent residency (F-5) is the natural next step: instead of renewing a spouse visa periodically, you get a status that generally no longer expires. The married-migrant route to F-5 (the F-5-2 category) is one of the more accessible paths, but it still asks for enough residence, a stable household income, Korean language through KIIP, and a clean record. This page explains the building blocks honestly and points you to the official sources that decide each case.
Who this route is for
This page is for foreigners married to a Korean national who already hold the F-6 marriage visa and want to move up to F-5 permanent residency through the spouse category (F-5-2). It is not the only F-5 route — see our general F-5 permanent residency guide for other categories. The list below covers the building blocks most spouse-route applicants meet; treat it as orientation, not a guaranteed checklist.
1. Enough residence on F-6
2. Household income at the GNI standard
3. Korean language & integration (KIIP)
4. A stable livelihood base
5. Clean criminal & immigration record
The income (GNI) standard for 2026
The spouse-route income test is tied to Korea's per-capita Gross National Income (GNI), which is revised each year, so the exact won amount changes annually and household-size rules apply.
| Element | How it works |
|---|---|
| Benchmark | Korea's per-capita GNI for the prior year, revised yearly |
| Spouse route (F-5-2) | Reported as around 1x the GNI, household income combinable |
| Household size | The required amount is adjusted by the number of people in the household |
The exact GNI figure, the household-size table, and how spouse income is combined are set officially and change every year. Confirm the current won amounts on HiKorea or by calling 1345 — do not rely on a remembered number.
F-6, then F-5, then maybe citizenship
The usual order is: hold and renew F-6, build the residence and income record, move to F-5 permanent residency, and only later — if you want to become a Korean national — consider naturalization. F-5 keeps your nationality and passport; naturalization generally requires giving them up. They are different decisions.
After approval: your Residence Card
F-5 holders carry a Residence Card like other long-term residents. If you are newly registering or replacing a card, see our Residence Card (ARC) registration guide. If you are not yet eligible for F-5, continue with F-6 extensions in the meantime.
Frequently asked questions
How long on F-6 before I can apply for F-5?
Commonly reported as more than 2 years of residence on F-6, with many applying after roughly 2 years of marriage plus 2 years on F-6 once income and language are met. Verify on HiKorea.
What income do I need?
Generally around 1x the prior year's per-capita GNI, combinable with your Korean spouse's income. The GNI figure changes yearly — confirm the current won amount officially.
Do I need KIIP?
For most spouse-route applicants, yes — KIIP completion is generally required to show language and integration. Confirm the exact requirement for F-5-2.
How are F-6, F-5, and citizenship different?
F-6 is the renewable marriage visa; F-5 is permanent residency (you stay a foreigner); citizenship makes you Korean and usually requires giving up your original passport.
What happens if I divorce after getting F-5?
F-5 is generally more stable than F-6, but outcomes depend on timing and your circumstances. Get advice specific to your case rather than relying on a general page.