The F1-15 visa is for foreigners living in Korea to invite their parents abroad. This visa is also applicable to the parents of the invitee or his/her spouse. A maximum of two parents can be invited. Certain income requirements must be met for the invitation.

Alien visas for parents

1. Exceptional talent visa holders : D5, D7, D8, D9, E1~7 visa holders with an annual income of more than 2 times GNI, and those who have changed their status to F2 or F5.
2. Domestic university graduate: A foreigner studying abroad for more than 6 months in a master’s program at a domestic university.
3. Foreign Investor: A foreigner who has invested more than KRW 300 million and lived in Korea for more than 6 months.

Income requirements and visa duration

• Income requirement: Your previous year’s income must be at least twice the gross national income (GNI). More than one times for domestic university graduates.
• Visa duration: Initial visa is for 1 year, with the possibility of extensions up to 2 years.

Application and extension process

• Application process: Apply through a certificate of visa issuance at a competent immigration office. Must prove relationship with parents and pledge that parents will not work in Korea.
• Required documents: See details link below
• Extension conditions: Must continue to meet income requirements at the time of extension. For investors, need to maintain investment amount.

Additional information

• Exceptions and special conditions: No relatives other than parents. Investors must invest at least 300 million won by themselves.
• Note: Since your parents came to Korea after being sponsored, it is important to meet the income requirement to extend your F1 status.