How do I change from E-7 visa to F-2 points-based visa?
I've been working in Korea on an E-7 visa for 3 years as a software developer. I want to apply for the F-2 points-based visa.
My current situation:
- TOPIK Level 5
- Master's degree from a Korean university
- Annual income: 50 million KRW
- No criminal record
- Completed KIIP Level 4
Questions:
1. Do I have enough points to qualify?
2. Can I apply while my E-7 is still valid?
3. How long does the process take?
1 Answer
I went through this process last year, so let me share what you need to know.
The F-2 points system requires 80 or more points out of a total of 120. The categories are age (up to 25 points, with higher scores for younger applicants), education (up to 26 points, where a Master's gets you 26 and a Bachelor's gets 18), Korean language proficiency through TOPIK (up to 20 points, with TOPIK 6 getting full marks), income based on GNI ratio (up to 25 points), and KIIP completion (up to 30 points across 5 levels, which is a huge point boost).
As a 3-year E-7 software developer, you likely have advantages with a good income score, and the IT field gets bonus consideration. TOPIK is probably your best investment for points if you haven't taken it yet. Even TOPIK 4 gives you 10 points, and each level above that adds significantly more.
I'd recommend signing up for KIIP (사회통합프로그램) as well since it's free, available in many locations, and gives you the biggest single point boost. You can apply on the Socinet website (socinet.go.kr). The whole F-2 application process takes about 1-2 months through the Hi Korea website or your local immigration office.