Korean naturalisation
general and simplified · Official name: Permission for naturalization (Nationality Act, Articles 4-7)
Foreign nationals can apply to the Minister of Justice for Korean nationality. General naturalisation needs five consecutive years of domicile in Korea and qualification for permanent residence (added in 2017), adulthood under the Civil Act, good conduct, the ability to support yourself, basic knowledge of Korean language and culture, and a finding that you are no threat to national security or public order. Spouses of Korean nationals and people with Korean parents can use shorter simplified routes. Naturalisation takes effect when you take the oath of citizenship and receive the certificate. Most new citizens must give up their other nationality within one year, though some can instead pledge not to exercise it in Korea.
Life in South Korea
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
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Who it’s for
Long-term residents of Korea, spouses of Korean nationals, and people with Korean parents or Korean-born parents.
Eligibility
General naturalisation
Sign in to check this route against your profileDomicile in Korea for at least five consecutive years and qualification for permanent residence; adult under the Civil Act; good conduct; able to support yourself through your own assets or skills or a family you live with; basic knowledge as a Korean national, such as language and customs; and the Minister finds naturalisation does not harm national security, public order or welfare.
Simplified: spouse of a Korean nationalSpouses of Korean nationals
Sign in to check this route against your profileDomiciled in Korea for two consecutive years while married to a Korean national, or three years since marriage with at least one year of domicile in Korea during the marriage, with further conditions in Article 6(2).
Simplified: Korean connection
Sign in to check this route against your profileThree consecutive years of domicile for people whose father or mother was a Korean national, people born in Korea whose parent was also born in Korea, and certain adult adoptees of Korean nationals.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Steps to apply
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- 4 steps
- Processing times and conditions
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