Guide to Extension of Stay for Foreign Nationals

1. What is an Extension of Stay?

An Extension of Stay is an administrative procedure that allows a foreign national to extend the period of 

lawful stay in Korea.

The application must be submitted before the visa or authorized stay period expires. Failure to apply 

within the permitted period may result in illegal stay status, fines, and other legal disadvantages.

2. When to Apply

An application for Extension of Stay may be submitted up to four (4) months prior to the expiration date.

• Recommended timing: 1–2 months before the expiration date

• Applications submitted after the expiration date are not permitted and may result in legal consequences.

3. Eligible Applicants

Foreign nationals holding the following long-term stay visas are eligible to apply for an Extension of Stay:

• D-2 (Student Visa)

• D-4 (General Training Visa)

• E-7 (Specialty Occupation Visa)

• E-9 (Non-professional Employment Visa)

• F-1, F-2, F-3, F-6 and other long-term stay visas

• Other stay statuses recognized by the Ministry of Justice

4. Important Notes for Extension of Stay

Before applying for an Extension of Stay, please ensure the following:

• Any change of address must be reported in advance

• Your passport must remain valid; renewal may be required if it is close to expiration

• You must carry your Alien Registration Card (ARC)

• Previous illegal stay records may result in restrictions or denial of extension

• Student visa holders (D-2): Attendance and academic status will be reviewed

• Work visa holders (E-7, E-9): Employment status must be verified

5. Required Documents (General Requirements)

※ Additional documents may be required depending on your visa status.

• Passport

• Alien Registration Card (ARC)

• Proof of residence (lease agreement, accommodation confirmation, etc.)

• Application fee

• Supporting documents related to your stay status
  (Certificate of Employment, Certificate of Enrollment, etc.)

6. Processing Time

The processing time is generally approximately two (2) weeks.
However, the exact duration may vary depending on the type of application and the immigration review process.

7. Consequences of Failing to Extend Your Stay

Failure to apply for an Extension of Stay before the expiration date may result in the following consequences:

• Being classified as an illegal overstayer

• Imposition of fines

• Restrictions on future visa issuance

• Possible entry bans or forced departure (deportation)

• Restrictions on employment and academic activities

If you intend to continue staying in Korea, you must apply for an Extension of Stay before your authorized stay period expires.

8. Services Provided by Su Administrative Office

Su Administrative Office provides fast and accurate assistance for foreign nationals applying for an Extension of Stay.

Our services include:

• Guidance on required documents

• Review and correction of application documents

• Representation for Extension of Stay applications

• Status tracking and result notification

• Multilingual consultation support

※ If your case involves marriage and foreign residency status, additional legal review may be required 

beyond the standard extension procedure.

If you require legal consultation regarding marriage and residency, we recommend seeking professional 

assistance for accurate guidance.