What is the F-1-5 Visa?
The F-1-5 visa is a residence status newly introduced in 2023 to support child-rearing in international marriage families.
It allows Korean spouses or marriage immigrants who have acquired nationality or permanent residency (F-5) to invite their parents or siblings for long-term stays in Korea.
Unlike the previous short-term C-3 visa, the F-1-5 visa allows a stay of up to 3 years at a time.
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
To sponsor an F-1-5 visa, the applicant must meet one of the following criteria:
- Korean national spouse or marriage immigrant with F-5 status
- Single-parent family (father or mother)
- Raising a child born to a relationship with a Korean citizen alone
- Raising a child after the death of a marriage immigrant spouse
- Families with three or more minor children
- Humanitarian reasons
- Cases involving a marriage immigrant, Korean spouse, or child suffering from a serious illness or disability
- Proof required: Critical illness card or hospital documents showing special status
Eligibility Criteria for Invitees
Invitees must meet the following conditions:
- 1st Priority: Father or mother (both parents can be invited simultaneously)
- 2nd Priority: In the case where both parents are deceased, or they are unable to travel due to illness or advanced age, siblings may be invited
- The invited sibling must not have any minor children.
Duration of Stay and Invitation Limits
- Korean spouse or F-5 marriage immigrant:
Can invite twice per child, up to the end of March when the child turns 10 years old (maximum 6 years total stay) - Single-parent or families with multiple children:
Unlimited invitations allowed until the child turns 13 years old (end of March) - Humanitarian cases (serious illness/disability):
Unlimited invitations allowed until the child finishes the 6th grade (end of September)
※ Each invitation allows a maximum stay of 3 years. After 3 years, re-entry to Korea requires a re-invitation.
Differences from the Past
Previously, parents of marriage immigrants could only stay in Korea for short periods under a C-3 short-term visa.
With the F-1-5 visa, it is now possible for parents or siblings to reside long-term, making child-rearing support much more stable.
Final Thoughts｜Professional Support for Your F-1-5 Visa Application
The F-1-5 visa is an important system for international marriage families.
Because eligibility, duration limits, and document requirements can be complex,
Ki-Won Administrative Office provides fast and accurate support for your F-1-5 visa application and residence status changes.
We are committed to helping you settle in Korea smoothly and securely.
