"Visa extension" here means an extension of your period of stay. You are not changing visa type; you keep your current status (D-2 or an E-series) and add time. Two things decide it: timing and documents.
The window is four months wide
- You can apply from four months before expiry
- You must apply by the expiry date — or the day before for e-applications
Leaving it late means no appointment slots and no room to fix a missing document. Start the moment the window opens.
Applying online costs less
Processing through the HiKorea e-application without a visit earns a 20% fee discount, for tasks eligible for e-application. An in-person application needs a HiKorea reservation.
The four documents everyone needs
- Integrated application form (Form 34) — tick "extension of stay", sign, add contact details
- Passport
- Residence card (ARC)
- Proof of residence — lease, dormitory confirmation, and so on
Your status then adds its own documents on top, such as enrollment or employment records.
Two fees, easily confused
- Extension of stay — 60,000 won
- Issuing or reissuing the residence card — 35,000 won
What to check now
- The date four months before your expiry — put it in the calendar
- Which extra documents your status requires
- Whether your case can go through e-application
Documents and fees vary by status, office and date. Confirm yours on HiKorea. The full checklist with pitfall tips is on the WeBring blog.