⚠ Special Guidelines Apply: F-5-14 is assessed under internal Ministry of Justice guidelines not publicly disclosed. Additional requirements beyond the standard criteria may apply. Professional consultation before filing is strongly recommended.
1. Overview
F-5-14 is a permanent residency category for overseas Koreans (primarily ethnic Koreans from China and Central Asia) who hold an H-2 Visiting Employment visa and have worked continuously for 4 or more years in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, or other permitted industries.
The H-2 Visiting Employment status allows overseas Koreans from China and former Soviet countries to work in designated labor-shortage industries. F-5-14 rewards long-term, lawful contribution to the Korean economy by granting permanent residency. Special internal Ministry of Justice guidelines govern this category, meaning the review criteria are not publicly disclosed and may exceed standard requirements.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- Currently hold a valid H-2 Visiting Employment visa status
- Continuously employed for 4+ years in H-2 permitted industries (manufacturing, construction, agriculture, etc.)
- Good character and conduct (law-abiding stay, no criminal record)
- Ability to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency
- Basic Korean language proficiency
- No outstanding national or local tax liabilities
- ※ Separate guidelines apply — Internal MOJ criteria may impose additional requirements not listed here.
3. Required Documents
- Integrated application form
- Passport and Alien Registration Card
- Proof of current H-2 Visiting Employment status
- Employment proof covering all 4+ years: employment contracts, full 4-major social insurance subscription history, employment certificates
- Employer confirmation letter
- Tax clearance certificate (no outstanding taxes)
- Criminal background clearance (Korea and country of origin)
※ Additional documents may be requested under the separate MOJ guidelines. Consult a professional for a complete document checklist.
4. Application Procedure
- Accumulate 4+ years of employment in H-2 permitted industries (retain all employment records throughout)
- Gather complete employment history documents (insurance records, contracts, certificates)
- Submit F-5 permanent residency application at the competent immigration office
- Undergo review under separate MOJ guidelines (may include in-depth interview)
- Respond to any additional document requests from the reviewing officer
- Receive permanent residency Alien Registration Card