Extend your stay or change your status of stay in Korea
A foreign national in Korea must apply for an extension before the current stay period ends, and must get permission before changing status of stay. Apply online through HiKorea, or in person at a local immigration office with a HiKorea appointment.
Moving to South Korea
Practical facts for newcomers, from official sources Finance Living
Finance
3
Currency
South Korean Won
KRW
South Korean Won
Cost of living
62
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
6–45%
Income tax (national)
VAT 10%
Plus local income tax of 10% of national income tax (top combined 49.5%); 45% applies above KRW 1 billion.
Living
1
Happiness
#65 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Eligibility
Who it’s for: Foreign nationals staying in Korea who want to stay longer or change to another status.
Extension timing
Sign in to check this route against your profileApplicants must apply before their current stay period ends (Article 25(1) of the Immigration Act).
Change of status
Sign in to check this route against your profilePermission must be obtained in advance (Article 24(1)).
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Document checklist
- Fees
- Steps to apply
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- 1 document
- 2 fees
- 3 steps
- Processing times and conditions
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