Bringing your spouse to South Korea: marriage visa guide

Who Can Apply for a South Korea Marriage Visa?

A marriage visa (often called a Family Reunion visa) lets your spouse join you in South Korea. You can apply if:

• You are legally married to your spouse
• Your spouse is not a South Korean citizen
• You have a stable income or financial support to support both of you
• You meet South Korea's health and character requirements

Your spouse must also pass a background check and meet health screening standards set by South Korean immigration.

Required Documents for Your Application

Gather these documents before you start:

• Valid passport for your spouse
• Original marriage certificate (and English translation)
• Birth certificates for both spouses
• Police clearance certificate from your spouse's home country
• Medical examination results (chest X-ray and blood tests)
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, employment letter, tax returns)
• Proof of accommodation in South Korea
• Completed visa application forms
• Passport-sized photos

All foreign documents must be officially translated into Korean or English. Many documents also need an apostille stamp for international recognition.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Get a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Before your spouse applies for the visa, you usually need to obtain a COE from South Korean immigration. This confirms that your marriage and circumstances meet legal requirements.

Step 2: Prepare and submit documents

Collect all required paperwork. Submit everything to the South Korean embassy or consulate in your spouse's home country.

Step 3: Wait for review

Immigration officials will check your documents and may request additional information. Processing takes several weeks to a few months.

Step 4: Attend an interview

Your spouse may need to attend an in-person interview at the embassy to confirm details about your marriage and intentions.

Step 5: Receive the visa

Once approved, your spouse receives the marriage visa in their passport and can travel to South Korea.

Important Tips for Success

• Start early — gather documents well before you plan to apply
• Check current rules — immigration requirements change, so verify everything on the official South Korean government immigration website
• Use official channels — apply only through recognized embassies, consulates, or the official immigration portal
• Keep copies — make copies of all documents you submit
• Be honest — provide truthful information; false statements can result in rejection or immigration bans

What Happens After Arrival?

Once your spouse arrives in South Korea, they must register with the local immigration office and obtain an Alien Registration Card. This card is required for opening bank accounts, renting housing, and other daily activities.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.