1. Overview
F-5-25 grants permanent residency to foreign nationals who make a high-value investment of KRW 3 billion or more and pledge to maintain that investment for at least 5 years in Korea. This is a conditional permanent residency pathway where the F-5 status is granted upon investment commitment, subject to maintaining the pledged investment throughout the 5-year period. F-5-25 applicants are exempt from both the living support requirement and the basic competency (Korean language/KIIP) requirement.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- Must invest KRW 3 billion (3,000,000,000 won) or more in Korea
- Must pledge to maintain the investment for a minimum of 5 years
- Investment must be in eligible assets/vehicles as specified by the immigration authority
- Permanent residency is conditional: F-5 status may be revoked if the investment pledge is not fulfilled
- Living support requirement: EXEMPT for F-5-25
- Basic competency (Korean language/KIIP): EXEMPT for F-5-25
3. Required Documents
Specific documents per case will be advised in your free consultation.
4. Procedure
- Confirm investment amount meets or exceeds KRW 3 billion threshold and falls within eligible investment categories
- Prepare and execute the 5-year investment maintenance pledge with the relevant authority
- Compile investment proof documents (contracts, bank records, asset valuations)
- Submit application at the local immigration office with complete documentation
- Receive conditional F-5 card upon approval; maintain investment throughout 5-year pledge period
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens if I withdraw the investment before the 5-year pledge period ends?
A. F-5-25 is a conditional permanent residency. Withdrawing the investment before the 5-year period expires may result in revocation of F-5 status. It is critical to maintain the pledged investment throughout the full term. If circumstances change, consult with an immigration agent immediately.
Q. What types of investments are eligible for F-5-25?
A. Eligible investment vehicles are defined by the Ministry of Justice and may include Korean real estate, securities, deposits, or other government-approved investment categories. Not all investment types qualify — confirm eligibility with an agent before committing.
Q. Can family members of F-5-25 holders also obtain permanent residency?
A. Family members do not automatically receive F-5-25 status. Spouses and children of F-5 holders may apply under F-5-4, and children born in Korea to F-5 holders may qualify under F-5-20. Vision Admin Office can assess each family member's situation.