How to bring your children to South Korea

Visa Options for Your Children

When moving to South Korea, your children can join you as dependents. The most common approach is including them on your own visa application or applying for a dependent visa after you've arrived. South Korea offers dependent visas for children of people working, studying, or permanently residing in the country.

Your child's age and your immigration status both affect which visa type applies. Most children under 18 can qualify as dependents, though specific age limits vary by visa category.

Documentation You'll Need

Bringing children to South Korea requires important paperwork:

• Birth certificate (original and certified copies)
• Passport (valid for your child's entire stay)
• Marriage certificate (proving your relationship to the child)
• Proof of custody (especially if parents are divorced)
• Medical records and vaccination documentation
• School records (if enrolling in Korean schools)
• Character certificate (for certain visa types)
• Financial documents showing you can support your children

Get original documents certified and translated into Korean by an official translator if needed.

Health and Medical Requirements

South Korea requires specific health checks for dependent visa applicants. Your children will need:

• Medical examinations at an approved clinic
• Proof of vaccinations
• Health insurance coverage (you'll typically need to arrange this)

Some schools and hagwons (private academies) have their own health requirements, so check with your child's educational institution.

School Enrollment Considerations

Public schools in South Korea accept foreign students, though international schools are also available. Starting school requires:

• Submitting vaccination and medical records
• School entrance exams or placement assessments
• Korean language skills (helpful but not always required initially)

International schools follow different curricula and typically charge tuition fees. Public schools are free but taught in Korean.

Practical Steps to Follow

1. Apply for your own visa first — your children's dependent visas are usually easier once yours is approved

2. Gather and translate documents — start early, as translation takes time

3. Schedule medical exams — use clinics recognized by South Korea's immigration office

4. Research schools — decide between public, international, or hagwon options

5. Arrange housing — confirm your address before submitting visa applications

6. Submit applications — apply for dependent visas at a South Korean embassy or immigration office

Important Reminders

Dependent visas tie your children's legal status to your own. If your visa status changes, theirs may be affected. Keep all documentation organized and maintain copies at home.

Processing timelines vary, so apply well in advance of your planned move.

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