What Is the F-3 Dependent Visa?
The F-3 (Dependent Family / 동반) visa allows the spouse and unmarried children (under 19) of certain Korean visa holders to reside in Korea for the same period as the primary visa holder. It's one of the most straightforward Korean visas: no occupation requirement, no points system, no separate income test — your eligibility depends entirely on the status of your family member already in Korea.
Who Can Bring Family on F-3?
You can sponsor F-3 for your spouse and children if you hold any of the following visas:
- Work visas: E-1 through E-7 (all professional and specialist categories)
- Student visa: D-2 (degree-seeking students — not D-4 language school)
- Residency visas: F-1, F-2, F-4, F-5, F-6
- Special visas: D-7 (intracompany transfer), D-8 (investment), D-9 (trade)
Who cannot sponsor F-3:
- H-1 (Working Holiday) holders
- C-3 short-term visa holders
- D-4 language school students
- E-9 (non-professional employment) and E-10 holders
F-3 Duration and Renewal
The F-3 visa is granted for the same duration as the primary visa holder's authorized stay. When the primary holder renews their visa, the F-3 holders must also renew — the two are linked. If the primary holder's visa is cancelled or expires without renewal, the F-3 also becomes invalid.
The Critical Limitation: F-3 Does Not Allow Work
This surprises many families: F-3 holders cannot work in Korea. The visa is for residence only. Your spouse cannot take employment, freelance, tutor privately, or run a business while on F-3 status.
To work, your spouse has two options:
- Apply for their own work visa (E-2, E-7, etc.) independently — requires meeting the full qualification requirements for that visa type
- Apply for a work permit (체류자격외 활동허가) — in some cases, F-3 holders married to certain visa categories can apply for a limited work permit. Eligibility and conditions have changed periodically; check current KIS rules or consult a specialist.
How to Apply for F-3
F-3 applications are submitted at the Korean consulate in your family member's home country (or current country of residence). The primary visa holder does not need to be present — but must provide supporting documents.
Required Documents
From the primary visa holder (already in Korea):
- Copy of passport
- Copy of ARC (both sides)
- Certificate of Alien Registration (외국인등록 사실증명 — from HiKorea or immigration office)
- Income proof: recent payslips or employment certificate confirming ability to support dependents
- Accommodation proof: rental contract or utility bill at Korean address
From the dependent (applying at consulate):
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa application form
- 1 passport-size photo
- Proof of relationship: marriage certificate (for spouse — apostilled + Korean translation); birth certificate (for children — apostilled + Korean translation)
- Visa fee (~$40–80)
Bringing Children Over 19
Children aged 19 or older do not qualify for F-3. If you have adult children who want to live in Korea with you, they must apply for their own visa — typically D-2 (student), D-4 (language study), or a work visa if they qualify.
F-3 and Education
Children on F-3 can enroll in Korean schools without any additional permit. Korea's public school system accepts foreign children with valid ARC and residence documentation. Many districts have international student support programs (다문화 학생 지원) to assist with Korean language adjustment.
Upgrading from F-3 to Independent Status
F-3 holders who want independence from the primary visa holder (for example, if a marriage ends) will generally need to convert to a different visa type based on their own qualifications. Options include:
- F-6-3 (humanitarian) if the primary holder is a Korean citizen and you are in a domestic violence situation
- F-2-2 if you have a child with Korean citizenship
- An appropriate work or study visa if you qualify independently
Source: Korea Immigration Service, F-3 Visa Guidelines | Last verified: March 2026
This article is for informational purposes only. Family visa situations vary significantly. Consult a verified immigration specialist for your specific circumstances.