Extension of Stay in Korea — Common Documents and Proof of Residence

Overview

An extension of stay keeps your current status and extends only the period. Required documents vary slightly by status, but the underlying structure is the same.

The core is the integrated application form, identity documents, evidence that the activity continues (employment contract, certificate of employment), documents on the affiliated body, and proof of residence.

At a Glance

Scope of Activity

• Applications to extend the period of stay while keeping the current status
• For C-3, extension within 90 days from entry where the activity remains within scope

Who Qualifies

• Persons on work statuses (E-1 to E-7, etc.) whose contract has been renewed or who continue working
• Registered residents approaching the expiry of their period of stay
• C-3 holders needing an extension for unavoidable reasons
• Holders of study, family and other statuses needing an extension

Required Documents

• Application form (Form No. 34), original passport and ARC, standard photo (depending on status), fee
• Copy of the employment contract, or dispatch order from headquarters / certificate of employment
• Business registration certificate under the VAT Act, or other proof of the affiliated body
• Status-specific additions (e.g. for E-4: acceptance certificate of the technology-introduction contract report, the contract or service transaction certificate, or a copy of the defence-industry designation)
• Proof of residence (lease, accommodation confirmation, expiry notice mail, utility receipts, dormitory fee receipts, etc.)

Application Process

1. Check eligibility — confirm your current status, career, degree and contract type match the requirements.
2. Prepare documents — foreign public documents need a translator's certification plus an apostille (or consular confirmation for non-member states).
3. Book a visit — reserve a slot at your Immigration Office via HiKorea (www.hikorea.go.kr), or file online where e-Application is available.
4. File and pay — submit the Integrated Application Form (Form No. 34) and pay the screening fee.
5. Review — respond to any request for supplementary documents within the deadline.
6. Result — on approval, the period of stay and status are granted; reissue your ARC if required.

Key Points

• The period of stay is granted within the validity of your passport, so a short remaining passport validity limits the extension.
• Where a letter of guarantee is required, it is recognised for up to four years even if longer, and the permitted period cannot exceed the guarantee period.
• You must be in Korea when applying; departing after filing may result in refusal.
• For C-3, an extension within 90 days from entry is possible where the activity is within scope, there is no suspicion of illegal employment and the need is recognised.
• Documents issued in Korea must normally be dated within 3 months unless another validity period applies.
• Documents already on file in your alien registration record need not be resubmitted.
• Health certificates, drug test results and pre-employment medical reports must be submitted sealed by the issuing hospital (do not open).
• You must be in Korea when applying; leaving the country after filing may result in refusal.
• Screening fees are non-refundable once the application is accepted.
• The head of the Immigration Office may add or waive documents where necessary for review.

Frequently Asked Questions

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