This page is a translation. The Korean page is the reference text; if they differ, the Korean version prevails. Korean reference
Changing your status of stay2026
If your activity changes, change your status before starting the new activity.
How it works
Find the status and requirements for your new activity in the HiKorea manual.
Ask the school or employer early for the documents they must provide.
Apply online or by visit booking, and do not start the new activity until permission is granted.
At a glance
- To do an activity outside your current status (e.g. a student taking a full-time job), get a change-of-status permit before you start (Art. 24). Confirmed by official source
- The change-of-status fee is given as KRW 100,000; one guide notes a separate card fee if a new card is issued. Confirmed by official source
- For applications that require an office visit, book a date and time on HiKorea in advance; some applications can be filed online via HiKorea e-application. Needs checking (확인 필요)
Document checklist
- Integrated application form (from HiKorea or the office)
- Passport
- Residence (alien registration) card
- Fee (payment method per office instructions)
- Employment contract
- Copy of the employer's business registration
- Degree or (expected) graduation certificate
- Proof of address (lease, accommodation confirmation, etc.)
Typical documents only. They vary by sub-type and office — check HiKorea's status manuals and the office (needs checking).
Make the document
Statement of reasons (extension, change, fine reduction) →Builds the frame of a statement of reasons for an extension, change of status or fine reduction. You must write the reasons yourself, truthfully. Certificate of employment (Korean/English) →Companies can draft a Korean/English certificate of employment for a foreign employee.Where to apply
Common mistakes
- Starting at a new company before permission
- Trusting ads that promise approval — the immigration office decides
FAQ
Can I change from C-3?
Changing from C-3 inside Korea is restricted.
Facts and sources on this page
Anything we could not compare directly with an official page is marked "Needs checking". Always verify on the government websites below before applying.
To do an activity outside your current status (e.g. a student taking a full-time job), get a change-of-status permit before you start (Art. 24).
Confirmed by official source (출입국관리법 원문(국가법령정보센터, 2026. 10. 2. 시행본) 대조 2026-10-17 — 제24조) · Checked on 2026-10-17
Compared with: 2026 한국 유학 가이드북(한국어) (2026-01), 비전행정사사무소 「외국인생활지식」 (2022-02-11 수정)
Verify at: 출입국관리법 (국가법령정보센터), 하이코리아 HiKorea (전자민원·방문예약·체류자격별 안내 매뉴얼)The change-of-status fee is given as KRW 100,000; one guide notes a separate card fee if a new card is issued.
Confirmed by official source (출입국관리법 시행규칙 제72조 원문(국가법령정보센터, 2026. 9. 15. 시행본) 대조 2026-10-17) · Checked on 2026-10-17
Compared with: 미주중앙일보 「한국 비자·체류허가 수수료 오른다」(2014. 1. 1. 시행분) (2013-12-26), 비전행정사사무소 「외국인생활지식」 (2022-02-11 수정)
Verify at: 출입국관리법 시행규칙 (제72조 수수료, 제44조의2 재입국허가 면제 등), 하이코리아 HiKorea (전자민원·방문예약·체류자격별 안내 매뉴얼)For applications that require an office visit, book a date and time on HiKorea in advance; some applications can be filed online via HiKorea e-application.
Needs checking (확인 필요) · Checked on 2026-10-17
Compared with: 2026 한국 유학 가이드북(한국어) (2026-01), 비전행정사사무소 「외국인생활지식」 (2022-02-11 수정)
Verify at: 하이코리아 HiKorea (전자민원·방문예약·체류자격별 안내 매뉴얼)