F-5-9 Overseas Ph.D. holders

The F-5-9 visa can be applied for by those who hold an overseas doctoral degree in high-tech fields and have been employed by a domestic company for more than one year.

F-5-9 visa application conditions

1. Those who have obtained a doctoral degree in advanced technology abroad prior to the date of application
2. High-tech field: IT, nano, technology management, digital electronics, bio, transportation and machinery, new materials, environment and energy according to the Industrial Development Act
3. You must continue to work in a full-time, regular job for at least one year in a domestic company.
4. If you change your place of work within one year, continuity is recognized if the period of work suspension is less than 30 days

F-5-9 visa benefits

1. Social Integration Program (KIIP) submission exemption
2. Exemption from submission of criminal record certificate
3. Income requirement is GNI or higher (more than 415 million won when proven by assets)
4. Spouses and minor children residing in Korea can change to F2-3 visa (can be changed to F5-4 visa after 2 years)

Considerations for F-5-9 visa application

1. A “full-time, full-time worker” generally refers to a regular job. In small businesses, it is easy to obtain a confirmation of regular job employment, but it is difficult to obtain a confirmation of regular job employment in universities or large corporations. Universities, which are the majority of applicants, often have 3-year contracts, so it is important to resolve this issue well.
2. Not all science and engineering fields are recognized as high-tech fields, and you must clearly prove that you are a doctorate in a high-tech field.

Required Documents for F-5-9 Visa Application

1. A copy of doctoral degree certificate *Additional transcripts, etc. may be requested if necessary
2. Copy of business registration certificate, certificate of employment
3. Documents confirming full-time employment, such as a list of subscribers at the four major insurance workplaces and an employment contract
4. Identity guarantee
5. Basic information of applicant
6. Documents proving the place of residence
7. Add required documents for each individual