1. Overview
F-5-17 is granted to foreign nationals who have maintained a continuous investment of the required amount in a government-designated tourist or resort facility for 5 or more years. F-5-19 grants permanent residency to the spouse and unmarried child of an F-5-17 holder. Both F-5-17 and F-5-19 are exempt from the living support requirement and the basic competency (Korean language/KIIP) requirement.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- F-5-17: Must have invested in a government-designated tourist or resort facility
- F-5-17: Investment must have been maintained continuously for 5 or more years
- F-5-17: Investment amount must meet the threshold designated by the relevant government designation
- F-5-19: Must be the spouse or unmarried child of an F-5-17 permanent residency holder
- Living support requirement: EXEMPT for both F-5-17 and F-5-19
- Basic competency (Korean language/KIIP): EXEMPT for both F-5-17 and F-5-19
3. Required Documents
Specific documents per case will be advised in your free consultation.
4. Procedure
- Confirm the facility holds valid government designation as a tourist or resort facility
- Compile 5-year investment maintenance records and financial documentation
- For F-5-19: prepare family relationship documents (authenticated if issued abroad)
- Submit application at the local immigration office
- Receive F-5 card upon approval (review approximately 2–4 weeks)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What types of facilities qualify as "government-designated tourist or resort facilities"?
A. Facilities must be officially designated under Korea's Tourism Promotion Act or related legislation by the relevant ministry (Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism or local government). Examples include resort complexes, international tourist hotels, and similar designated developments. Confirm designation status before investing.
Q. Does the 5-year period need to be completely uninterrupted?
A. Yes, the investment must be maintained continuously for at least 5 years. Partial divestment or transfer during this period may reset or invalidate the qualifying period. We recommend maintaining complete financial records throughout.
Q. Can children born after the F-5-17 holder obtained permanent residency also apply for F-5-19?
A. Yes, as long as the child is unmarried and the parent-child relationship is documented. Note that children born in Korea to an F-5 holder may also qualify under the F-5-20 category.