Overview
F-6-1 is the most common marriage-immigration visa under Annex 1 of the Enforcement Decree of the Immigration Act. It is granted to a foreign spouse whose marriage to a Korean national is legally established. The marriage must be officially registered in both Korea and the spouse's home country before the visa can be applied for.
Eligibility Requirements
- A legally valid marriage to a Korean spouse (registration completed in both countries)
- The Korean spouse (sponsor) must meet income and housing requirements
- Communication-ability standard (Korean-language proof or a verifiable shared common language, depending on the applicant's country)
- The sponsor has not invited a foreign spouse three or more times in the past
- Neither sponsor nor applicant has disqualifying records (criminal record, history of fraudulent marriage, etc.)
Income and Housing Requirements
Annual minimum thresholds are published by Immigration each year and vary by household size. Confirm your exact requirement through a consultation.
Common Required Documents
- Visa application form (foreign spouse)
- Passport copy and ID-style photo
- Marriage certificates from both countries (Korean family-relation and marriage certificates plus the home-country marriage certificate)
- Korean spouse's identity-guarantee letter and financial proof (income statement, employment certificate, lease agreement, etc.)
- Foreign spouse's criminal-record certificate (apostille or consular authentication)
- Health certificate
- Communication-ability evidence (when applicable)
- Wedding photographs and other evidence of a genuine relationship
Application Procedure
Processing Time
Generally 4β12 weeks, varying by country and consulate. Additional time may be required if supplemental documents are requested.