For foreign government officials and international organization staff on official missions to Korea.
Stay Duration
Duration of official assignment (no fixed limit)
Processing
Processed through Ministry of Foreign Affairs or designated government channel
Visa Fee
Exempt (official government status)
Fees and processing times sourced from HiKorea & Ministry of Justice. Figures are updated periodically but may change — verify before submitting.
The A-2 visa is issued to foreign government officials (non-diplomatic rank) and staff of international organizations approved by the Korean government who are stationed in or visiting Korea on official business. This includes officials sent under bilateral government agreements, staff of UN agencies, OECD, and other recognized international bodies. Unlike A-1, A-2 holders do not have full diplomatic immunity.
Foreign government staff below diplomatic rank sent to Korea on official assignment, and employees of international organizations (UN, OECD, WHO, World Bank, etc.) stationed in Korea. Also includes staff of foreign trade and government promotion offices with official recognition from Korea.
Appointment to an official government position by a foreign government and formally recognized by the Korean government
OR employment by an international organization officially recognized by the Republic of Korea
Official documentation from the sending government or international organization
Clean record — no previous immigration violations
Official passport or service passport
Official assignment letter from sending government or international organization
Diplomatic note or formal communication to Korean MOFA or relevant ministry
Employment contract with international organization (if applicable)
Official notification to Korean government
The sending government or international organization formally notifies the relevant Korean authority (MOFA or sector ministry) of the official's assignment.
Visa processed through official channel
The visa is issued through the diplomatic or official channel, not through a standard consular application.
Arrive and register
A-2 holders register with the immigration office. They receive an Alien Registration Card and may receive limited official protections (not full diplomatic immunity).
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