What is the difference between A-1 and A-2?

A-1 is for full diplomats with diplomatic immunity under the Vienna Convention (ambassadors, counsellors, etc.). A-2 is for government officials of lower rank and international organization staff who are on official assignment but do not hold diplomatic rank. A-2 holders have limited official protections, not full diplomatic immunity.

Can A-2 family members work in Korea?

In limited cases, yes — under the same reciprocal employment agreements that apply to A-1 families. Eligibility depends on whether Korea has a reciprocal arrangement with the official's home country.

Does A-2 cover UN and NGO staff?

A-2 covers staff of international organizations formally recognized by the Korean government (UN, OECD, WHO, etc.). Staff of foreign NGOs not on the official recognition list would need to apply for a different visa category (typically E-7 or D-7).

Korea A-2 Visa — Eligibility & How to Apply

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Overview

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.

Who is the A-2 visa for?

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.

Eligibility requirements

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

Required documents

1.
Official passport or service passport
2.
Official assignment letter from sending government or international organization
3.
Diplomatic note or formal communication to Korean MOFA or relevant ministry
4.
Employment contract with international organization (if applicable)

How to apply — step by step

1
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.
2
Visa processed through official channel
The visa is issued through the diplomatic or official channel, not through a standard consular application.
3
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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