1. Overview
F-5-26 grants permanent residency to foreign nationals working in research and development (R&D) roles at foreign-invested companies in Korea. This category recognizes the contribution of skilled R&D professionals to Korea's technology and innovation sectors. F-5-26 applicants are exempt from the basic competency (Korean language/KIIP) requirement, though the living support requirement applies.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- Must be employed in an R&D role at a company that qualifies as a foreign-invested company under Korean law
- The employer must hold a valid foreign-invested enterprise (FIE) registration with KOTRA or the relevant authority
- Must meet income/living support requirements at the GNI per capita standard
- Must maintain lawful residence and employment status in Korea
- No criminal record and no immigration violations
- Basic competency (Korean language/KIIP): EXEMPT for F-5-26
3. Required Documents
Specific documents per case will be advised in your free consultation.
4. Procedure
- Confirm the employer is a registered foreign-invested company and that the role qualifies as R&D
- Obtain employment documentation and company's FIE registration certificate
- Prepare income documents (salary statements, tax records)
- Submit application at the local immigration office with complete document set
- Receive F-5 card upon approval (review approximately 2–4 weeks)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How is "foreign-invested company" defined for F-5-26 purposes?
A. A foreign-invested company is one that has registered a foreign direct investment with KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency) under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act. The company must hold a valid foreign investment declaration certificate. Not all companies with foreign shareholders qualify — KOTRA registration is required.
Q. What counts as an "R&D role" for F-5-26?
A. R&D roles typically include research scientists, engineers, developers, and technical staff engaged in systematic research, experimental development, or innovation activities. The role must be clearly documented in the employment contract and supporting documents. Administrative or management roles at the same company would not qualify.
Q. Is the living support requirement still required even though the language test is waived?
A. Yes. F-5-26 is exempt only from the basic competency (Korean language/KIIP) requirement. The living support requirement (income at the GNI per capita level) still applies and must be demonstrated through salary or income documents.